Merissa Hester is a high school senior and former foster youth. She is a strong believer in sharing your story and for standing up for other foster kids who feel lost. Merissa hopes to one day make a difference in the lives of others by being a social worker. Merissa is a big NAMI Philly supporter and believes that mental health is so important to talk about! Merissa is described as being resilient, brave, bold and full of life! Merissa hopes that her story will impact other foster kids, other teenage girls or anyone who has ever felt alone!

Merissa on Instagram: @riss.rose_

The YANApodcast:

Instagram: @the_yanapodcast 

Website: www.theyanapodcastwithnamiphilly.wordpress.com

New episodes every Tuesday!

NAMI Philly:

Instagram: @NAMIPhiladelphia or @namiphilly_ETS

Website: www.namiphilly.org 

NAMI Philadelphia Warmline: 267.687.4381 OPTION 1

CRISIS RESOURCES:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK (8255)

Crisis Text Line is a free, 24/7 support for those in any type of crisis. If you text, “NAMI” to 741741 from anywhere in the United States you will be connected to a trained Crisis Counselor.

Philadelphia Suicide and Crisis Intervention Hotline (215) 686-4420

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration): 1-800-662-HELP (4357) - available 24/7 to help those suffering from addiction find immediate help.

Women Organized Against Rape (WOAR): 24 Hour Hotline 215.985.3333

National Domestic Abuse Hotline: (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or text "START" to 88788

Child Help National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 (1-800) 4-A-Child or (1-800) 422-4453