ACS Mental Health Connector

"If you see someone without a smile today, give 'em yours."

- Dolly Parton

It can be difficult to know how to cope with all the challenges life throws our way. For some people, the pain can become so overwhelming that they may feel death is the only option. It’s important to remember: there is help, and there is hope. Please take a moment to watch the video below to educate yourself about suicide prevention and how you can help someone who may be struggling. If you think someone you know may be considering suicide, take these 5 important action steps below.

September’s Self-Care Awareness Month is a beautiful reminder that caring for ourselves is not a luxury; it is essential. In the busyness of everyday life, self-care is often the first thing we put aside. We naturally tend to place the needs of others before our own, but it’s important to remember that we cannot pour from an empty cup. Self-care can certainly look like getting a massage, taking a peaceful walk, or setting aside a little time to rest and recharge. But it can also be so much more. It means listening to what our minds, bodies, and hearts need, giving ourselves permission to slow down, setting healthy boundaries, and making space for the things that bring us joy and peace. This September, let’s remember that caring for ourselves is an act of kindness; not only toward ourselves, but toward the people we love and care for, too. When our own cup is filled, we have so much more to give.

September is Attendance Awareness Month. Let’s help our students build a habit of being on time and in school each and every day. Learn more about the ACS attendance policy at acs-k12.org/handbook

Athens-Limestone County Resource Center offers several resources for families. They would love to serve you.

Family Resource Center

406 S Jefferson St

Athens, AL 35611

(256) 230-0880

Did you know that the Dental Hygiene Clinic at Calhoun Community College offers FREE teeth cleaning for children under 17? Adult teeth cleaning services are also available at a discounted rate of $30. Cleaning appointment includes exam, x-ray, and fluoride. Call 256-306-2815 or scan the QR code to schedule your appointment. Learn more about the clinic at http://calhoun.edu/.../dental.../dental-hygiene-clinic-2

WIC is here to support your family's health, from prenatal care and breastfeeding assistance to nutritious food benefits and other healthcare referrals. Visit alabamapublichealth.gov/wic to find your local WIC agency and learn how to apply.

Athens Hospital

https://www.athenslimestonehospital.com/

Athens-Limestone Counseling Center

Mental health screenings and treatment resources

https://www.mhcnca.org/

Community Table of Athens

The food pantry provides perishable, emergency assistance, and non-perishable items to families of Limestone County. Assistance is available at 201 North Jefferson Street, Athens, AL. Clients may receive Food Pantry assistance up to 6 times per calendar year.

https://limestonechurchesinvolved.org/assistance/

Limestone County Health Department
COVID Vaccinations, Clinical, Environmental and Home Health services https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/limestone/

Caring House
Grief Support services

https://hhcaringforlife.org/caring-house

United Way
DIAL 2-1-1 from your phone or search the database online to get help with non-emergency needs.

https://unitedwayathenslimestone.com/

Limestone County DHR

https://dhr.alabama.gov/county-office-contact/

Limestone Child Advocacy Center
Prevention and intervention services for children and families

https://www.limestonecac.org/

Family Resource Center
Housing, Rent, Utilities, Clothing, and Counseling

https://alcfrc.org/

Decatur West Behavioral Medicine Hospital

Mental Health Inpatient Hospital

https://decaturmorganhospital.net/services-a-z/psychiatric-services

Happi Health
Medical and Behavioral Health Services

https://www.happiinc.com/

TLC Pediatrics

Pediatric Medical Services

https://www.tlcpedsathens.com/

Hometown Pediatrics

Pediatric Medical Services

https://www.hometown-peds.com/

Beyond Blessed (Athens, AL)

Beyond Blessed, a local organization that serves homeless individuals. We hold coat drives, blankets drives, & water drives to help those in need.

beyondblessed2020@aol.com

(256) 777-2619

My goal is to provide and assist families with mental health resources within the community. Reach out if you have any questions!

ACS has a collaboration with Athens-Limestone Counseling Center to provide School-Based Mental Health Counseling for students at school. Please contact school counselor or mental health coordinator for more information.

Michael Ross

Mental Health Services Coordinator

Email: michael.ross@acs-k12.org
Website: https://www.acs-k12.org/Domain/2168
Location: 100 US Highway 31 N Athens, AL 35611
Phone: 256-233-6600