Vermont Department of Mental Health

09/02/2026

Taking a moment to check in with yourself can reset your decisions. Stay informed with safer play information at VTGamblingHelp.org.

09/01/2026

💜 September is Su***de Prevention Month. 🩵

This month, we’re making space for connection, hope, and conversations that can make a difference. Talking openly about su***de reduces stigma and helps people feel more comfortable asking for help.

Not sure how to start the conversation? SAMHSA has guidance: How to Talk to Someone About Help For Mental Health & Substance Use https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/helping-someone/how-to-talk-to-someone-about-help

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline. Help is always available. You don’t have to wait for a “right time” to reach out. 📱🫶🏻

08/28/2026

🎒📚✏️ Back-to-school season is here! 🚌🍎🖍️

DMH's Child, Adolescent, & Family Unit Director, Laurel Omland spoke with NBC-5 about back to school and how it can be exciting, but it can also bring big emotions, new anxieties, and uncertainty for kids. Take a moment to check in, listen, and make space for how they’re feeling. 💬💛

Back-to-school anxiety? Tips from the Vt. Department of Mental Heal...

07/15/2026

When you're struggling, there's something different about talking to someone who gets it.

That's what Professional Peers do. They use their own lived experience with mental health challenges and recovery to support others with empathy, understanding, and practical guidance.

We're working to grow Vermont's peer workforce because lived experience makes our mental health system stronger! It brings perspectives that can't be taught in a classroom and helps make care more person-centered.

Ever wondered how to become a Professional Peer? Or maybe you've been thinking about it yourself? This post breaks down the different pathways to certification in Vermont.

Learn more at https://bit.ly/4aWMac9

07/13/2026

Did you know Vermont medical providers have a direct line to mental health specialists?

The Vermont Consultation and Psychiatry Access Program (VTCPAP) gives providers direct access to child and perinatal mental health experts through a phone consultation.

Whether they need guidance on screening, diagnosis, treatment, medication, or connecting a patient with local resources, providers can talk one-on-one with a psychiatrist or mental health specialist to help them make informed care decisions.

Visit https://bit.ly/4bqoa19 learn more.

07/06/2026

This month's episode of DMH Explains is all about peer support!

When we're going through something difficult, we usually turn to people who've been there before. Peer Support Professionals use their personal experiences living with mental health diagnoses or substance use to support others who are facing similar challenges.

Learn more about peer support in Vermont at MentalHealth.Vermont.gov/Peer-Support

07/02/2026

07/01/2026

SSRIs can make it harder for you to regulate body your temperature in extreme heat.

Stay hydrated, take breaks from the sun, and talk to a healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about your medication.

06/30/2026

Did you know the brain is temperature sensitive?

When your body gets too hot, it can affect how your brain functions. Extreme heat can make it harder to concentrate, increase irritability, worsen fatigue, and may even intensify symptoms for people living with mental health conditions.

As the weather heats up, don't forget to take care of yourself:

-Drink plenty of water.
-If you're outside, seek shade and avoid the hottest part of the day.
-Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
-If you take medication for your mental health, talk with your healthcare provider about how heat may affect you. Some medications can make it harder for your body to regulate temperature.
-Check in on friends, family, and neighbors who may need a little extra support.

06/17/2026

Summer break is here!

While kids may be counting down the days until school's out, many parents and caregivers are wondering what the next few months will look like.

If you're feeling a little nervous about the summer shift, you're not alone.

A little structure, connection, and consistency can go a long way. Swipe through for some ways you can support your child's mental health this summer.

Looking for more support?

The Child Mind Institute: https://bit.ly/4uFineQ

Mental Health America's Resources for Parents: https://bit.ly/3QIGw6q

The 988 Lifeline:
📞 Call or text 988
💬 Chat at https://bit.ly/3NDAnqh

Remember: you don't have to be in crisis to reach out to 988. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, worried about a loved one, struggling with a relationship, or just having a tough day, trained counselors are available 24/7 to listen and help.