To say it’s been a rocky start to 2021 would be an understatement.
While I certainly didn’t expect COVID to magically disappear, nor the political seas to calm the moment the calendar turned to 2021, my wrecked nerves still hoped that the early days of the new year would somehow provide a small respite from the turbulence of 2020. The events of last year were unlike anything in our lifetimes. To be honest, my expectations for a time-bound resolution feel like my privilege talking. I acknowledge that with the deepest part of me. I have access to mental health resources and paid time off, to shelter and food, and to loving connections with my friends and family. And still, I 
am reeling from the pain, suffering, death, and disparities that we face in this country. I know many of you are, too. And while days feel dark right now, I’m reaching for audacious things, like hope and resilience, because I have to believe in something bigger than myself. It’s ok to feel not ok; appropriate, even. And there are resources available to help.
2020 reminded us of the principle of resilience—that without adversity, hope cannot emerge. 2021 reminds us that adversity is an enduring state, and our work does not end because we are uncomfortable. We must recommit to the long work of creating solutions and resources that directly counteract inequity. As an organization focused on the well-being of young people, Hopelab has curated a list of mental health resources that can help provide needed support during these tenuous times. We hope you find these useful and invite you to share them with anyone that may need help.
Take care of yourselves so you can take care of others.
If you think you or a loved one are having a medical or psychiatric emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
If you have a resource or organization to be added, please email robin@hopelab.org
* February 2021 — this post has been updated to include BIPoC mental health resources.
