Sunrise Center in Central Texas: A Beacon of Hope During Mental Health Awareness Month

In private throughout our community, numerous individuals grapple quietly with mental health issues.

“If you visit our store, you’ll experience love and support, and we’ll do our best to provide you with the resources you require, ensuring you’re never alone; we’re here to assist,” explains Miss Kaye, who is fondly called “Miss Kaye” at the Sunrise Center of Feed My Sheep.

At the Sunrise Center, those doors stand invitingly open—providing hope, healing, and a way forward for individuals facing crises.

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"Ideally, we make sure to assist every individual who visits us with whatever assistance they require—be it for their mental well-being or even just helping them locate the free phone lady—we're here to support you through everything," clarifies Roberta Bien-Aime, an intern at the facility.

Miss Kaye mentioned that their services include assistance with finding shelters, entering rehabilitation programs, and promoting general well-being. They also provide specific courses and support groups tailored to addressing mental health requirements.

"We provide numerous mental health courses such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, PTSD treatment, anger management, and Grief Share among others," Cathey mentioned.

In May, we observe both Mental Health Awareness Month and National Women's Health Month. It's encouraged for those grappling with mental well-being issues, particularly women, to seek support.

Bien-Aime shares firsthand knowledge about the significance of reaching out for assistance.

As someone who has survived domestic violence, I want to emphasize that if you're facing any form of mental, physical, or emotional abuse, please seek assistance and leave your current circumstances,” she stated. “You can visit the Sunrise Center where either myself or Miss Kaye will be available to assist you. We’re here to provide support and guide you towards safety. It took me considerable time to escape from my own predicament, yet I managed to break free. At age 41, I achieved top honors as a 4.0 student, serving as both the president of an honor society and part of the Social Work Honor Society—so remember, you too have the strength to overcome this.

Damon Russell, who works as a Peer Coordinator for the National Alliance on Mental Illness and Central County Services, stresses that Mental Health Awareness Month plays an essential role in reducing stigma around mental health issues.

People with mental health issues are exactly the same as everyone else," Russell stated. "They simply have some challenges they're dealing with.

Regarding women's mental health particularly, Russell pointed out that women may encounter challenges in distinct ways compared to men.

"They start appearing later in life when individuals have already set roots, but these symptoms can often disrupt their established lives significantly," he explained.

Should you or anyone you're aware of require support, dial 800-888-4036 for information about nearby services, or contact 988, which is the national suicide hotline.

The counseling services at the Sunrise Center are provided without charge and are not restricted to individuals who are homeless.

Residents of Central Texas can utilize various mental health resources provided by NAMI, which includes:

• Central Counties Services
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Baylor Scott & White
• Metroplex Health System
• Hospitals like Canyon Creek and Cedar Crest are examples of inpatient facilities.
• Texas Heart Behavioral Care Network
• Providence Hospital
• Bluebonnet Behavioral Health