Uncategorized

How Music Can Support Mental Health & Recovery

Music does more than fill the silence in our daily lives; it can be a powerful tool to calm your mind. Emerging research shows that music can be a meaningful part of maintaining mental health and supporting recovery from substance use and addiction treatment. The Global Wellness Institute reports that studies exploring the link between music and health have tripled in the past decade, reflecting a growing understanding of how rhythm, melody and sound influence our brains and emotions.  According to MusiCares’ 2025 Wellness in Music Survey, both musicians and listeners increasingly turn to music as a form of emotional regulation and self-care. Music reduces anxiety, improves focus and fosters a sense of connection. Whether it’s a calming playlist after a long day or expressive songwriting during recovery, music can help people process difficult emotions and build resilience. For residents navigating mental health, substance use and addiction treatment in Pinellas …
Substance Use

How To Stay Level-Headed Through Substance Use Support

Embarking on the journey of substance use recovery is a deeply personal and transformative experience. It involves much more than simply overcoming substance use; it is a pursuit of wellness and fulfillment. Whether you’re just starting out or have been on this path for some time, you will face unique challenges and triumphs along the way. At Care About Me, we understand that recovery requires significant effort and is often a daily battle. Support from loved ones and professionals can be invaluable, but it’s equally important to develop coping strategies that help you stay level-headed amidst the emotional ups and downs. This need for steady support is especially clear in our own community. Pinellas County continues to face serious challenges related to substance use, mental health and addiction.  496 fatal overdoses were reported in 2023 and more than 10,600 overdose-related EMS calls were reported in 2024. These numbers remind us …
Mental Health, Suicide Prevention

World Suicide Prevention Day: Turning Awareness into Action

Today, September 10th, communities around the globe observe World Suicide Prevention Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and reminding us that mental health challenges can touch anyone, at any time. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” calls on us to break the silence and encourage open conversations, ensuring that help is available when people need it most. Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, with over 700,000 lives lost each year. In the United States, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging people to talk openly about mental health can save lives. Mental Health Challenges in Pinellas County In Florida, suicide remains a significant public health concern, with approximately 3,446 deaths reported in 2022, equating to a rate of 14.1 per 100,000 residents. In Pinellas County, suicide is the 8th leading cause of death, accounting for …

FAQs

Imagine having a confidential access line that’s dedicated to helping Pinellas County residents of all ages find the crucial mental health, substance use, and addiction services they need. That’s where Care About Me comes in. Streamlining the process, our specialists help to spare you the frustration of endless searches for local services. Instead, we provide a safe space where residents or family members can connect directly with experienced behavioral health specialists. These specialists skillfully assess your needs and swiftly schedule an appointment with a local provider. Don’t hesitate – take the first step toward the support you deserve today!

Care About Me is not a crisis line. If you or someone you know is facing a mental health emergency, please call 911. For those dealing with thoughts of self-harm or in need of emotional support, please reach out to the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.

Care About Me partners with top-tier providers who offer a wide range of services, including in-person and virtual appointments. Our providers cater to individuals of all ages and accept various forms of insurance, including private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare. We also offer sliding scale or pro bono services to ensure everyone has access to quality care.

Our providers specialize in serving all Pinellas County residents, including the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and justice-involved populations. Our vetted providers offer comprehensive services across all levels of care, including supportive services, therapy, detox, medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and psychiatric services. With Care About Me, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the personalized care you deserve.

Connect with a Care About Me specialist in a way that suits you best – whether it’s through a call, text, online form, or live chat. We’re committed to providing each resident with a personalized and tailored experience when seeking assistance.

Our team of masters-prepared clinicians is dedicated to answering all incoming calls. Care About Me specialists are equipped to connect with translators proficient in over 170 languages, ensuring that care is accessible to all residents, regardless of the language they speak. Creating accessible care for everyone, no matter the language barrier.

Harnessing the power of our secure platform, Care About Me specialists seamlessly send electronic referrals, monitor care progress, and ensure residents receive prompt and impactful assistance along with follow-up support as needed. Our highly trained specialists excel at connecting callers with a wide array of supportive services, including counseling, support groups, educational resources, and referrals to local, specialized treatment centers and providers.

Calls take roughly 20-25 minutes for a one-on-one consultation with our specialist to secure your appointment. You can even request a callback at your preferred time, and our specialists will do their best to accommodate your schedule.

Care About Me is funded annually by the Pinellas County Board of Commissioners.

Downloadable Resources