May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. It is also the time of year Samaritan is blessed by many compassionate, caring women—our Silent Samaritans—who give generously to help other women in need.
Of the 2,000 individuals the Samaritan Counseling Center served last year, more than half were women. Looking at statistics, it is not surprising. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, women are 60% more likely to experience an anxiety disorder and 70% more likely to develop depression than men. Reasons include: brain chemistry, hormonal changes, poverty, domestic abuse, body image/self-esteem and the additional responsibilities of caring for children as well as aging parents. Again—these facts are hardly surprising.
Thanks to our faithful Silent Samaritans, over 1,200 women in need were empowered last year to recover and improve their lives. With newfound hope, spiritual direction and professional guidance, these women are now armed to be their strongest, best selves.
But the need for counseling never diminishes. In fact, not only did the number of women qualifying for fee subsidies increase by more than 30% from 2010 to 2011, but we anticipate that number will continue to climb. As women struggle in this uncertain economy, Samaritan must be prepared to help—both therapeutically and financially.
“The Samaritan Counseling Center cannot exist without people willing to support it financially. I was blessed to be able to pay for counseling—but many cannot.”
- A former Samaritan client
Women seeking help at Samaritan want to be their strongest, best selves for their families and themselves. Realizing they need help and making the effort to get it is the vital first step—and a sign of personal strength. Your gift will ensure that first step will not be their last.
Please become a Silent Samaritan today. To show our sincere thanks and appreciation, we invite our Silent Samaritans to a special luncheon which will be hosted this year by Newlin Archinal. To learn more, call Beth at 412-741-7430, ext. 404, or register now.
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