May is Mental Health Awareness Month. SAG-AFTRA prioritizes the overall wellness of its members, and that includes their mental health. This month, we wanted to share a few resources that could help you or a loved one. As stated by the chair of the Los Angeles Local Mental Health Subcommittee, Sean Astin, “It is wonderful to offer members, at a glance, references to different organizations that offer mental health services. One never knows how, when or why in a given moment, someone is ready to reach for help … or help for a friend, but it can be a magical moment, especially when you know where to look. I’ve spoken to audiences all over the country, and it is clear, mental health awareness and advocacy bringing balance and peace to so many is acceptable and accepted. May is our designated month to say loudly and proudly there is help, and it’s closer than you may realize.”
Carelon Behavioral Health
Carelon Behavioral Health, formerly Beacon Health Options, is a behavioral health network provided for those who are eligible for the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan. They provide numerous resources, including help finding a professional provider, informational topics and Talkspace, which is a convenient online therapy through text, audio or video sessions. This allows individuals to receive care from a licensed provider anytime, anywhere. You can learn more about Carelon Behavioral Health and the resources it provides on the specialized SAG-AFTRA Carelon Behavioral Health website.
Entertainment Community Fund
The Entertainment Community Fund, formerly The Actors Fund, provides workshops, support groups, online resources and emergency financial assistance for SAG-AFTRA members. Many of these resources are geared towards the mental health and total well-being of the artist. Some of the resources include:
You can learn more about the Entertainment Community Fund’s Services and Programs as well as check out their calendar of workshops on their website.
Looking Ahead Program
Looking Ahead is a specialized program of the Entertainment Community Fund, formerly The Actors Fund, to help professional young performers and their families build community and gain education and support, while navigating the unique challenges associated with working in the entertainment industry. This program provides many events geared toward the life stage development of young performers. It also has behavioral health resources, articles and videos for both the young performer and their parents. You can also request a conversation with counseling staff. You can find out more about Looking Ahead and how to become a member on its website.
Motion Picture and Television Fund
The Motion Picture and Television Fund provides a variety of emotional and financial relief supportive services to industry members and their families during times of need. Whether the hardship is personal or the result of an entertainment industrywide event, MPTF is there when you need it most. You can find more details about the services it provides for all ages at MPTF Supportive Services. You can also learn more about The Samuel Goldwyn, Jr. Center for Behavioral Health and its specialized care approach for members of the entertainment community and the community at large.
National Alliance of Mental Illness
The National Alliance of Mental Illness, also known as NAMI, provides advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives. This extends to members of the entertainment industry. NAMI has libraries of resources that include videos, podcasts and webinars, blogs and news articles. You can find all of these and more on its webpage for Support & Education. It also has support groups for people with mental health conditions as well as the families of people who have mental health conditions. You can learn more about NAMI and its HelpLine on its website. You can also find your local NAMI here to find out what types of programs and support are offered in your area.
Trevor Project
Through providing resources, information and a safe place, Trevor Project seeks to end suicide among young people of the LGBTQ+ community. You can chat, call or text a trained counselor, find support through TrevorSpace or even engage in calming exercises if you are not ready to reach out for support yet. Trevor Project has many specialized resources for LGBTQ+ young adults. Check it out today!
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
This resource provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress. It also provides prevention and crisis resources for you and your loved ones, as well as best practices for professionals in the United States. You can call 988 for emergency care or visit its website at 988lifeline.org for more information.
Other Resources
While it is impossible to list every resource available for mental health, here are a few additional websites that may be beneficial to you or a family member.
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