Resources, News and Blog

Finding Grief Support After the Loss of a Child

The loss of a child is one of the most devastating experiences a parent can face. While every grief journey is different, the love parents have for their child never ends, and neither does the impact of that loss. Grief can affect every aspect of daily life, from emotional well-being and relationships to physical health, work and everyday routines. Parents who have experienced the death of a child often describe feeling isolated, overwhelmed and unsure of how to move forward. While there is no right or wrong way to grieve, no one should have to navigate that journey alone. Compassionate support, mental health care and connection with others can help bereaved parents process their grief while honoring the memory of their child. The Mental Health Impact of Child Loss Losing a child can have lasting effects on both mental and physical health. Research shows that bereaved parents are at a …

Minority Mental Health Awareness Month: Understanding the Gaps in Care Across Florida and Pinellas County

Each July, Minority Mental Health Awareness Month brings attention to the ongoing disparities in mental health access, treatment and outcomes among racial and ethnic minority communities. Across Florida and here in Pinellas County, these disparities are shaped by a combination of structural barriers, cultural stigma and limited access to timely affordable care. While awareness around mental health continues to grow, many individuals still face challenges when trying to take the first step toward support. For many, the issue is not whether help is needed. It is knowing where to begin. Mental Health Needs and Access Barriers in Florida and Minority Communities Mental health needs continue to rise across Florida. According to the Florida Department of Health SHIP data, about 1 in 6 adults experience frequent mental distress, defined as 14 or more mentally unhealthy days per month. Demand for services continues to increase while access remains uneven based on geography, …

PTSD Awareness Month: Awareness Starts With Understanding

June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time to talk openly about something that is often deeply misunderstood. When many people hear “PTSD,” they picture one specific experience or one specific type of person. But the truth is, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can affect anyone. It does not look the same for every person and it is far more complex than the stereotypes we often see online, in movies or in everyday conversations. Understanding PTSD starts with listening, learning and recognizing that trauma can impact people in very different ways. According to the National Institute of Mental Health and SAMHSA, PTSD can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. That may include abuse, violence, serious accidents, natural disasters, medical trauma, grief, assault, military combat or other life-threatening or deeply distressing experiences. And while many people recover from trauma over time, others may continue to experience symptoms that interfere with daily …
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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.