Iusually begin my column with a story to make you smile or even chuckle. This one is a little more serious, but I hope you find some helpful ideas.

Most of us know someone — a family member, friend or acquaintance — who has faced mental health challenges. Maybe you’ve experienced anxiety or depression yourself.

Lately, I’ve been reading about the increasing number of people dealing with mental illness. Sadly, suicide rates have risen, claiming the lives of more than 49,000 people in the U.S. in 2023.

About one in five adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness, which can affect people of any age. The highest risk is among those ages 18 to 25, followed by ages 26 to 29.

Therefore, be mindful of services and hotlines in your area, and reach out for help when needed. Thankfully, the s

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