By now you have seen the stickers that are showing up on flyers and hardhats, as well as mention of the Helpline in SMOHIT tweets and Facebook posts. I know because I am getting calls for assistance as well as some asking what exactly a person can call about. What exactly happens when you call this number, and what sort of things does it cover? The short answer is this: just about anything that gets in the way of you being your best self. Here is a list that covers some of the major issues. It is by no means a total list, since some problems are unique to each member. But hopefully it will help you decide whether or not to reach out. I primarily will do a phone assessment to see if I can help in that call or if you need a referral to someone in your area where you can meet face to face. Sometimes people are at a loss for where to turn, and I may be able to help. When appropriate, I do phone sessions, set up over time to help a person through a crisis. Healing takes time, and I am available through that. Remember, this list may not cover all issues, but if you are hurting or suffering, please give the Helpline a try.

• Grief, trauma and loss
• Alcohol and other drug issues
• Depression and suicidal thoughts, PTSD
• Anxiety, fears
• Family Issues: relationship with spouse/partner/family of origin, parenting concerns, aging parents/caregiving fatigue
• Work Issues: coping with difficult people/bosses; work stress/deciding when to retire
• Stress related to debt

The Helpline was established in 2017 to respond to the potential impact of the hurricanes, fires, floods and mass shootings of that year. SMOHIT expanded its scope to all members and their families in the U.S. and Canada because they wanted to offer help to everyone in need for those difficult problems of life. I have had the good fortune to attend some SMART MAP meetings and know that my work dovetails nicely with what the peers are doing. The combined efforts of the SMART MAP and the Helpline have you covered. SMART MAP peers are on the ground with trained members who are looking out to help those in need at locals, and I am here via the Helpline to fill in any gaps. I also consult with MAP peers when they need some of my expertise. Remember, no problem is too big or small to make a call.