What Every Parent Needs To Understand About Teens’ Mental Health

Published in HEALTHY LIVING 

11/17/2017 05:46 am ET

By Lindsay Holmes

A new report is painting a bleak picture when it comes to teens’ mental health, as well as their access to professional support for those issues.

Data published by the nonprofit Mental Health America shows that rates of severe youth depression have increased from 5.9 percent to 8.2 percent over a five-year period. Half of those screened between the ages of 11 and 17 reported having thoughts of suicide or self-harm throughout the course of a week. South Dakota was the state that ranked the “best” in terms of good youth mental health. (The data measured access to treatment as well as prevalence of mental health conditions.) Nevada was ranked as the “worst” state.

Researchers collected public mental health data from each state between 2010 and 2015 (the most recent years of available information) to examine the state of mental health across the country. While they found some dizzying statistics about how adults are faring ― for example, 57 percent of people with a mental disorder did not receive proper treatment over the study period ― researchers were most alarmed by the findings surrounding youth mental health.

“I feel like it’s only something people have started to talk about in the last couple of years, if that,” Theresa Nguyen, vice president of policy and programs at Mental Health America, told HuffPost. “We’re starting to see data come out that shows not only are youth struggling significantly, but the numbers indicate ― like in our current report ― that the trend is getting worse.”

How access to treatment is failing young people

Although access to services and insurance increased overall from last year’s report, researchers say there’s still not enough people receiving the care they need. This is especially true for teens: More than 76 percent of young people studied who had a major depressive episode ― which equated to approximately 1.7 million kids ― did not receive proper treatment for the issue.

Mental health treatment, whether it be therapy, medication or both, is the most effective way to manage a mental illness. Experts say that in extreme cases, treatment can also mean the difference between life and death.

“I wish I could say the mental health of our children is improving. Our report shows the opposite,” Paul Gionfriddo, president and CEO of Mental Health America, said in a statement. “Far too many young people are suffering ― often in silence. They are not receiving the treatment they need to live healthy and productive lives ― and too many simply don’t see a way out.”

What needs to be done

Experts say parents play a pivotal role in changing the conversation when it comes to their kids’ psychological well-being. Here are a few ways to spot if your kid is dealing with a mental health issue and how to realistically help them through it:

Look out for striking changes in behavior.
Nguyen says that drastic changes in mood ― especially in a month or a shorter period of time ― could be a sign that something bigger is at play. This can include withdrawing from social activities kids once loved, or displaying anger or sadness more than usual. Teens who might be engaging in self-harm may wear longer sleeves, even in warm weather, Nguyen added.

“That’s a huge red flag,” she said. “It’s kind of hard because these things correlate with puberty and sometimes adults are like, ‘Oh, my kid is just going through those shifts.’ It gets hard for parents because this period of time is so muddy.”

Talk about anything you notice.

Make your home an environment where teens feel comfortable approaching you about mental health issues, Nguyen said.

“Talking to your kid is really important,” she explained. “They’re really good at hiding problems ... it’s really good for young kids, especially around puberty, to start having that conversation as you would with sex education.”

Let them know about any family history of mental health issues.

If you or a member of your family has experienced a mental illness, Nguyen says it’s vital that you bring it up with your kids. The more informed they are about their family history, the more likely young adults are to open up if they’re having issues of their own.

“As scary as it is, talking to kids about your own experience is a huge thing a parent can do,” Nguyen said. “Lead by example. Teenagers know a lot more than people give them credit for.”

Looking for more suggestions? Here’s an expert-backed guide on how to talk to your kids about depression.

Remind your child that mental health issues are nothing to feel shame over.

Bottom line: Mental illness deserves just as much attention and care as physical illness. Negative stereotypes surrounding mental health disorders only do more harm.

“It might help to think about [a] health perspective,” Nguyen said. “We wouldn’t be afraid to talk and hear about cancer or diabetes. Why are we afraid to share about mental illness?”

Sitler: Protective Factors Will Help Navigate the Holidays

As we enter the holiday season, I want to remind each of you to focus on your protective factors to get through the festivities stress-free so you can enjoy making memories rather than being frustrated or unhappy. Protective factors are those things that help you rebound from difficulty and face life with an optimistic approach.

I’m fortunate to work closely with an incredible group of creative, confident women who lead non-profits in our community. We recently shared what we do to maintain positive, upbeat attitudes. I knew I needed to share their answers as perfect examples of how to live life well.

“I get to do work that helps people reflect on their own behavior and become their best selves as leaders. I see that humanity does want to get better and I am honored to be part of the work that makes this happen.”

“I volunteer in some ways that allow me to continue to learn and grow, personally and professionally. I also ride my horse! My goal? To become a better rider and help him be a better horse. It's great to pursue excellence in something! The benefits of connection to an animal are well documented.  My riding is also physical exercise. We all know how important that is.”

I stay upbeat and positive through my faith, starting each day with prayer and contemplation. I have a job I truly enjoy and I try to surround myself with positive people.  I spend time with friends who listen and accept me, warts and all! And music always makes me feel better!”

“I practice self-care including quiet time, exercise and mediation/breathing.”

“I am by nature enthusiastic and positive, but I also married the class clown who continues to keep me smiling and keep life in perspective. Additionally, I have been privileged to have worked over 28 years in my field starting with children (it was quite the joyful experience).  As a Director, I live vicariously through my amazing staff and all the great things they do every day to make a difference with our many customers from all walks of life. Life is good.”

“Getting together with family and friends and participating in arts experiences help me stay upbeat and positive!”

“My approach is to find ways to serve others.”

“I have signs in my office that remind me to ‘Believe’. This has been my life word for more than a decade.  It helps me to remember that God is able to handle everything that comes my way. So, I guess the short answer is faith!”

“My family has Sunday dinner together and we say what we are thankful for – always an upbeat positive way to start the week.  Also, I listen to music and go for a drive in new areas.”

“I find my peace in what I do for the next generation of our community.  It’s the best.”

“I don't have a job, I have something that I believe in, and that keeps me upbeat and positive even when the workload and challenges mount.  It’s all part of why I do what I do.”

“I need quiet time to stay centered, but also need to have the regular companionship of family, friends and colleagues like the great women in this group.”

Penny Sitler, is executive director of MHA of Licking County

Found in Then Newark Advocate November 26, 2017

Suicide survivors say dialogue is key to prevention

Published Oct. 19, 2017 at 06:51PM
The Union Democrat by Alex Maclean

If given a second chance at life, how would you choose to use it?

Kevin Hines, 36, of Atlanta, and Ken Baldwin, 60, of Angels Camp, are among the rare few who survived attempts at suicide by jumping off of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Now, both men are speaking out in an effort to keep others from making the irreversible decision to end their own lives.

“We have a massive problem here,” Baldwin said of suicide in the Mother Lode. “It’s rural, the poverty level is significant, there are drugs up here, and all of that produces this bowl of depression.”

The men shared their personal experiences Wednesday night to an audience of roughly 100 at the Bret Harte High School Theater as part of an event organized by the Calaveras County Behavioral Health Division aimed at raising awareness about suicide and offering advice for prevention.

Information about the number of suicides in Tuolumne and Calaveras counties for 2016 were not readily available, but the most recent report by the California Department of Public Health showed the rates of suicide between 2013 and 2015 in both counties were among the highest in the state.

According to the report, the three-year average rate is calculated based on the number of suicides per 100,000.

California as a whole had an average rate of 10.6 suicides a year between 2013 and 2015, while the average rate for Tuolumne County was 19.5 and Calaveras County was 30.8. The actual three-year averages were 10.7 in Tuolumne County and 14 in Calaveras County.

Kaybee Alvarado, community health assistant for the Calaveras County Behavioral Health Division, said studies have shown two of the main reasons suicide rates are higher in rural areas is because of isolation and access to guns.

“That’s across all of the rural counties,” Alvarado said.

That’s why the Calaveras County Behavioral Health Division and other organizations in the community have spearheaded initiatives aimed at reducing the social stigma surrounding suicide and improving open communication about the topic.

Baldwin said he believes fear is the main reason for the stigma that hinders dialogue about suicide.

“Many people are afraid of the word suicide because there’s finality to it,” Baldwin said.

Sparking conversation about suicide was the goal of a community event Wednesday night at the Bret Harte High School theater in Angels Camp, where Baldwin and Hines shared their similar experiences with a crowd who ranged in age from students to senior citizens.

The two first met 10 years ago for a news story about how each had jumped from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and survived, but they didn’t see each other again until earlier this year.

Baldwin said he was taken by surprise when he found out that Hines was scheduled to speak at the school where he has worked as a teacher since 1993.

In August 1985, Baldwin jumped from the landmark bridge after struggling with deep depression for years. He had previously attempted to kill himself three years earlier by taking a bottle of sleeping pills mixed with alcohol shortly after the birth of his daughter.

Baldwin’s wife, Ellen, said the couple’s biggest mistake was not talking about his struggles after the first attempt. After jumping from the bridge, Baldwin said he knew that he had to open up to his family.

“Once I was in the hospital bed, I realized I wouldn’t be able to hide this one,” Baldwin said.

Baldwin said he still struggles with depression and has bad days, but now he knows he can lean on his wife to help him through it.

“She’s my rock, she’s my hero, she keeps me sane, she keeps me going, she tells me I’m a good person, and I believe her,” Baldwin said. “I’m lucky because some people don’t have someone they can believe in.”

In September 2000, a 19-year-old Hines attempted to take his own life by jumping from the same bridge that Baldwin had jumped from 15 years earlier.

Hines told the audience Wednesday night about his upbringing and long struggles with bipolar disorder prior to the attempt. He said that he openly sobbed on the bus ride to the bridge and while standing on the walkway hoping someone would ask him what was wrong, but no one did.

“Apathy, maybe fear … that’s where I think society has lost its way,” Hines said. “We have forgotten as a society that if we are not anything else on this planet we are one thing — our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.

“And you don’t have to have faith in a higher power to know that.” 
Hines spoke with passionate conviction about the importance of being kind to others and peppered his hour-plus speech with humor to lighten the mood and keep people engaged whenever the story took a dark turn.

People shouldn’t feel like they are defined by their own thoughts, Hines said.

“If all of our thoughts became our actions, how many of us would be in jail for road rage?” Hines asked the audience to a show of scattered raised hands, which prompted a joke about how California Highway Patrol officers were taking notes at the event.

“Just because you have thoughts of suicide doesn’t mean that you have to act on them, no matter the pain they cause you,” Hines said. “Our thoughts do not have to own us, define us, or rule the day.”

The goal of his motivational speaking, Hines said, is to let people know that they should express how they feel without fear of judgment and help others understand what to do when others are in crisis.

Hines said the best question people can ask someone who they suspect may be at risk of harming themselves is the most blunt one: Are you suicidal? He believes he likely would not have taken the 220-foot plunge from the bridge if someone had asked him that question.

One effective suicide-prevention program noted by Baldwin was QPR, which stands for Question, Persuade and Refer. Started in 2009, the program aims to provide training in suicide prevention for community “gatekeepers” such as teachers, students, parents, employers and spiritual leaders.

Meanwhile, there is also work underway to install suicide barriers at the Golden Gate Bridge after more than 1,600 deaths since it opened in 1937. Fewer than 30 people are believed to have survived the fall.

Completion of the barriers is anticipated in early 2021.

The number for the national crisis line is (800) 273-8255.

Tips for Teachers: Ways to Help Students Who Struggle with Emotions or Behavior

1. Start fresh. Other teachers may see your class roster and warn you about a particular student, but if what they have to say is negative it can taint your perception of that student before you have even met them. If you see a conversation starting to go this way, reframe it in a positive light. Ask what worked best, or what that teacher would have done differently if they got to do it over. It’s up to you to develop your own relationship with that student.
2. Draw on past experiences with students, but don’t necessarily rely on them. The start of the school year brings a fresh crop of children and teenagers with different backgrounds, personalities, and problems. Think about techniques that worked last year for dealing with some of your “difficult” students, but stay open to new approaches.
3. Put yourself in the right frame of mind. Most students who have emotional or behavioral problems want to be successful in school, but have trouble controlling themselves, focusing, and staying still. Avoid deeming them “attention seekers,” or “slackers.” Work on being as patient as possible.
4. Expect some disorganization and forgetfulness. Children who are sad, angry, or afraid are probably not too concerned about missing papers or homework assignments. Of 11-17-year olds who took MHA’s Youth Screening, 92 percent reported that they sometimes or often had trouble concentrating, and 91 percent reported that they were sometimes or often easily distracted. If your workload allows, it might be helpful to email homework assignments to parents to keep kids on task, or provide written directions instead of verbal ones so students can refer back to them. If you are using technology in the classroom, use the reminder or task tools that are available.
5. Reduce classroom stress. Avoid rigid deadlines – try giving homework assignments that are due in two days instead of the following day. Don’t lower grades for non-academic reasons like messy handwriting, especially with younger children. Think of ways to gamify your lessons from time to time so they are more engaging for students who struggle to focus.
6. Look into evidence-based programs that support social and emotional learning. MHA recommends the Pax Good Behavior Game (especially for younger students), the Positive Action Program, and the Raising Healthy Children Program. These programs use social and emotional learning to deliver outcomes that matter later in life such as less crime, lower rates of public assistance, improved employment opportunities, and higher earning potential. Furthermore, they have demonstrated considerable return on investment.
7. Find the good and praise it. Children and teens who are struggling with emotional or behavioral problems find school extra hard and often deal with low self-esteem. They may be extra sensitive and much harder on themselves than their peers. Be genuine and generous in your praise and downplay their shortcomings. Assure them that with hard work and practice, they will eventually find difficult assignments easier.
8. Be familiar with options for accommodations. For children and teenagers who still have trouble despite after school help or chances to correct their mistakes, IEPs and 504 Plans can help structure the unique assistance they need to succeed. Gently suggest these options to parents when appropriate – they may not even know this kind of extra help is available.
9. Avoid embarrassment. When dealing with a student who is being disruptive, take them aside or out in the hall to explain the problem rather than reprimanding them in front of their classmates. Ensure that they know the problem is with the behavior – not them – and how you expect them to behave moving forward.
10. Exercise compassion. No special accommodation can substitute for patience, kindness, and flexibility. Teachers bring a great deal of compassion to the table to start with, but it can be easy to let it fall to the wayside when you’ve got a classroom full of 30 students, 4 more lesson plans to get through, and can’t seem to get everyone to stay on the same page. No one expects you to be a saint – just try your best to keep your cool.
11. Work with parents. Parents may see behaviors at home that you aren’t seeing in school and vice versa. Keeping open lines of communication with parents will create consistency in working with students who have emotional or behavioral struggles and minimize misunderstandings. Make a plan that helps you communicate regularly with parents who need more frequent contact than others so that they're in the loop with what you're seeing in the classroom, and they can fill you in on what's going on at home.
12. Make time to take care of yourself. Find ways to de-stress on evenings and weekends so you can bring your “A game” to the classroom. You might be the take-a-hot-bath type or you might be the cross fit type – whatever works best for you.

Adapted from Red Flags, “Ways to Assist Students with Depression or Related Disorders.”

A Story of Recovery from Recovery Is Beautiful

Posted at 12:23h in Stories of Recovery by Alaina Herrel 

This recovery story comes from the National Alliance on Mental Illness:

This past year I was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety and depression. I think I’ve always known that I live with these conditions, but it wasn’t until last year that I decided to do something about it. Since a very young age I always felt as if there was something “different” and “wrong” with me. I never felt like I was a normal kid and I never felt as if I could fit in anywhere. Instead of hanging out with friends, having fun, or even being able to study and focus on school, my days were spent worrying about one thing after another. Fears that I was going to die, fears that I had a brain tumor, fears that I was going blind, fears that I had diabetes, fears that I would be kidnapped, fears that my house would burn down, fears of people, fears that I wasn’t good enough, pretty enough or I wasn’t smart enough, fears of failure and fears that I had no future. The list goes on and on. These fears led to constant rituals that I had to do to try to ease the anxiety that they were causing me.

I googled diseases and illnesses constantly to see if I could possibly have one. This resulted in me going to pretty much every type of doctor possible. I’ve constantly had a panic in my mind that there is something wrong with me. I’ve spent way too many of my nights awake and paralyzed in panic because I was so convinced that the worst things would happen to me at night. It was usually that I would either get kidnapped while asleep or that my house would burn down in flames. This resulted in me turning lights on and off, locking and re-locking my doors and windows, and checking outside my room over and over again. It was as if I was just waiting for something bad to happen and the anxiety would keep me awake all night. I did things like count the number of steps I took, the number of times I touched something and pretty much counted the number of times that I did anything. There were constantly numbers going through my head and they always needed to end in an even number. If it didn’t end in an even number, I would often have to redo things and do it until it felt “right.” This made my days feel full of stress, anxiety and made me dread every day because I didn’t want to have to deal with it for any longer. These fears have been crippling me all my life. They have made me distance myself from having friendships, relationships, jobs, school, social events and anything that could trigger these fears more and that could cause me more anxiety.

My fear of failure and of people has resulted in me skipping many days of school and to make many excuses to friends to not hang out or go to social events. Every day of high school was a trial for me because I always thought that everyone was judging me, and looking down on me. Quickly my old ways continued into college and again I was skipping and failing classes. My depression and anxiety kept me unmotivated and—once again—disappointed in myself. Feeling like I had no control over my life and absolutely no self-confidence, I decided that I needed to turn my life around. I thought that a great way I could do this was by losing weight. Little did I know that my goal of losing a “little bit” of weight would trigger my OCD and lead me down a dangerous and even worse path than I was on before. Losing weight turned into my obsession, my passion and my life. It was all I cared about and my days were spent writing and rewriting my calories, counting and recounting my calories, and stepping on and off of the scale over and over again. I thought at first I was doing something good for myself and like I finally had the control that I had always wanted over my life, but really I was the one being controlled by OCD that had now lead me to anorexia. Every day the number on the scale would drop and every time I saw a lower number I was proud of myself and I felt like I had finally accomplished something for once in my life. Family members began to worry about my physical and mental health and at first I didn’t understand why and I couldn’t agree with them because my mind was so distorted by this disorder. It wasn’t until my family and I vacationed in California last summer that I truly realized how bad my problem was and how truly miserable I was. I couldn’t enjoy a single second on vacation because my thoughts were consumed with food. I cried after every meal I ate, I was cold the entire time and shivered while in the sun on the beach. I could barely hike or ride a bike because my body was so malnourished and weak. I was constantly dizzy, shaky and my whole body would tremble from just walking a few steps. It hurt to even sit down because every bone in my body stuck out and would bruise so easily. I knew that I had a problem and that my body was shutting down, but I felt so trapped and like there was no way to get out. It was scary thinking that this would be the rest of my life and left me with constant thoughts of suicide.

When I got home from California, I immediately went to an eating disorder center looking for help. I promised myself and my family that I would gain weight and recover from this disorder. I did not want to let it control my life for another second and was motivated to recover. Little did I know how hard and how long the process would be for me to truly let go of it. After months and many tears, I finally let go of my routine and I began to let myself gain my weight back. Still with thoughts of suicide and depression, I knew that I immediately needed to get help before doing something that I would later regret. I found a therapist and psychiatrist and was diagnosed with OCD, anxiety and depression. The constant worrying, fears, anxiety attacks, rituals and obsessions finally all made sense. I finally felt like I knew the reasons for why I acted how I did all of my life and I felt like I was finally taking the steps to help myself that I need to for so long.

I’m always going to face these problems, but I am going to try my hardest to find the best ways to deal with them and fight through every day. Some days will be harder than others, and those are the days that I will want to lie in bed and cry, but that’s ok because some days I’ll feel happy and those are the days that I will cherish. I know that I can never let the depression take away my life like I once almost did.

A lot of people don’t understand how crippling OCD, anxiety and depression can be. I understand how they couldn’t because if you have not experienced it yourself then I don’t think anyone could truly understand it. To the people who do understand and who are also dealing with OCD, or any other type of mental health condition, I want you to please know that you are never alone. There are so many people who really do understand what you are going through, even when it feels like no one does. I understand that feeling of just wanting the pain to go away and of just wanting it to end for a single minute. I’m sharing my story so that maybe I can help or relate to at least one person out there who is also struggling. I want whoever you are to know that you will never be alone in this battle. We will all have many battles to face in this lifetime, but that is what will make this life so rewarding. I will choose to push through and fight everyday knowing that this is my battle. I can conquer it and you can too.

To see similar stories to this one – click here http://www.recoveryisbeautiful.org/to visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness’s website.

Continuing Conversations on Addiction

On April 26, Newark City Schools Superintendent Doug Ute kicked off “Starting Conversations,” an amazing day of activities bringing people from many facets of Licking County together to talk about addiction and how it impacts Licking County residents.

Doug’s eyes were open to the issue through a personal experience when one of his children became addicted and he is willing to share that for the greater good of our community. Add to that the frequency with which he saw grandparents in the NCS administration building registering for school the grandchildren they have custody of because their adult children have addictions, and Doug knew the time had come to get anyone and everyone involved.

The Sam Quinones book "Dreamland" was the focus of Starting Conversations. The book is an investigative reporter’s perspective of how our country came to have a problem with prescription drug and heroin abuse. It’s a fascinating read about the perfect storm that resulted in today’s addiction issues. Those issues are happening right here in Licking County, and they affect people from every walk of life.

Throughout the day, community leaders of businesses, agencies and school districts, organizations, students and families joined NCS for conversations around drug addiction. Speakers included Gary Mohr, director of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, Jennifer Lloyd, director of Drug Abuse Outreach Initiatives for Attorney General Mike DeWine and Wayne Campbell, founder of Tyler’s Light, talked about efforts to help people in our state with addiction, the use of Narcan and the story of Tyler Campbell, who lost his life to addiction.

If you missed the NCS events, there are more opportunities for you to become educated about what is occurring in your back yard. Through the Licking County Community Blueprint process, which identified behavioral health including drug addiction as a top priority, Hope In Action forums are being held around the county to provide information and resources to anyone with an interest.

I hope you’ll join me, Kay Spergel of Mental Health and Recovery for Licking & Knox Counties and several others as we facilitate “Hope for Recovery – Understanding Mental Health and Addiction Issues 101” at 6 pm on one of the following: Wednesday, May 17 at Etna Township Administration Building, 81 Liberty Street, Etna; Wednesday, May 24 at Newark Public Library, 101 W. Main Street, Newark; or Wednesday, June 14 at Buckeye Lake Public Library, 4455 Walnut Road, Buckeye Lake.

We’ll be talking about drug addiction and the wear and tear of everyday stressors on our lives, as well as mental health and suicide. These are concerns that are swirling around our community and impact us all. What is being done to address these issues? How do we cope and where do we turn for help? Join us as we discuss the resources available in the community that begin to address these concerns.

Penny Sitler is the executive director of Mental Health America of Licking County.

Found in The Newark Advocate May 16, 2017

Would You Know When You’ve Gone Too Far?

By Penny Sitler
Executive Director
Mental Health America of Licking County

Mental health is essential to everyone’s overall health and well-being, and mental illnesses are common and treatable. But people experience symptoms of mental illnesses differently—and some engage in potentially dangerous or risky behaviors to avoid or cover up symptoms of a potential mental health problem. Sometimes people—especially young people—struggling with mental health concerns develop habits and behaviors that increase the risk of developing or exacerbating mental illnesses, or could be signs of mental health problems themselves. Activities like compulsive sex, recreational drug use, obsessive internet use, excessive spending, or disordered exercise patterns can all be behaviors that can disrupt someone’s mental health and potentially lead them down a path toward crisis.

This May is Mental Health Month and Mental Health America of Licking County (MHALC) is raising awareness of Risky Business (#riskybusiness). The campaign is meant to educate and inform individuals dealing with a mental health concern understand that some behaviors and habits can be detrimental to recovery—or even mask a deeper issue—and that seeking help is nothing to be ashamed of.

Take the interactive quiz at www.mentalhealthamerica.net/whatstoofar and tell us when you think behaviors or habits go from being acceptable to unhealthy. MHALC wants everyone to know that mental illnesses are real, that recovery is always the goal and that even if you or someone you love are engaging in risky behavior, there is help. It is important to understand early symptoms of mental illness and know when certain behaviors are potentially signs of something more. We need to speak up early and educate people about risky behavior and its connection to mental illness and do so in a compassionate, judgement-free way.

When we engage in prevention and early identification, we can help reduce the burden of mental illness by identifying symptoms and warning signs early and provide effective treatment Before Stage 4. So, let’s talk about what is and is not risky business. Let’s understand where it’s important to draw the line, so that we can address mental illness B4Stage4, and help others on the road to recovery. For more information, visit http://mhalc.org.

Always Offer Your Help

By Penny Sitler
Executive Director
Mental Health America of Licking County

I’d like to share a story that illustrates why it’s so important to be mindful of our mental health.

I was recently with a group of 27 high school juniors from all over Licking County who had chosen to hear about minding their mental health as they prepare to launch their adult lives. They were all chatting and engaged when one young man said, “I signed up for this session because I have mental health issues.”

Immediately, the room became so still I could have heard a pin drop. I thanked that brave boy for sharing and then asked the others why they got so quiet all of a sudden. “Because I’m embarrassed for him,” came one reply. Someone else said, “It’s scary.”

I explained that that in our country, one in three people their age (up to age 24) and one in five adults experience a mental health issue every year. What is there to be embarrassed or afraid of when it’s such a common experience?

I asked them what they would have said if he had disclosed, “I have a broken arm.” Would they have gone silent? “Of course not. I’d ask to sign his cast,” someone called out. “Or I’d ask him if he needs help carrying his backpack.”

Then I asked them what they thought would happen if someone with a broken arm waited years before seeing a doctor. Their answers included: “It wouldn’t heal right.” “He may never be able to use his arm again.” “It would hurt.”

In the United States, on average people wait 10 years from onset of symptoms to diagnosis for mental health issues. They’re often embarrassed, scared or they don’t recognize that what is happening to them is an illness. Think of how much better the outcomes would be for people if they would get treatment for their mental illness as soon as it begins to emerge. I encouraged the group of high schoolers’ generation to be the beginning of change and for them to start responding the same way to people with mental health concerns as they do to someone with a physical illness.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if all of us would be open minded enough to recognize that someone with a mental illness is a person needing care and concern? My hope is that one day, anyone with a mental health condition will feel secure enough, knowing that they won’t be ostracized or avoided. They will be comfortable enough to speak out and let those around them know what they’re experiencing and ask for assistance. And I hope those around them will respond by asking what is needed and how they can help, just as we all do for people with broken bones, cancer, heart disease and any other physical illness. Let’s change the conversation so everyone gets the help they need. After all, there no health without mental health.

Published in The Newark Advocate March 25, 2017 

What’s up with you? I see signs of trouble

By Penny Sitler
Executive Director for Mental Health America of Licking County

Haven’t you loved the mild winter? My bulbs anticipate an early spring - they’ve already popped six inches above ground. Everyone seems to be in a great mood thanks to lots of sunshine. Yet for some, all of the fresh air and fun in the world doesn’t bring a smile to their faces. Some people can’t get past the depths of depression or the weight of anxiety.

Licking County has had its first suicide of the year. The saddest thing I’ve heard is when someone close to a person who has taken his/her life tells me about behavior that are signs and symptoms of mental health issues, and that person didn’t recognize it as a telltale sign that something is wrong. There’s no one to blame for the missed signal but it makes me realize that our work educating everyone about what to look for and how to react isn’t done.

Many of the symptoms are physical – someone who is depressed may feel sluggish, exhausted, nauseated or achy. This sounds like the flu, doesn’t it? A person experiencing anxiety might have chest pain, the shakes or shortness of breath, symptoms which could easily be mistaken for a heart attack. Withdrawing from friends and family, dropping out of regular activities, losing interest in hygiene and expressing hopelessness or self-criticism all indicate potential issues.

How can you help when someone exhibits such signs and symptoms? If symptoms last for two weeks or more, encourage a visit to see a doctor. If it’s the flu or another physical illness, the physician will probably prescribe rest, fluids and medicine. If it’s a mental health issue, most doctors will recognize the difference and provide appropriate treatment and referrals to mental health professionals as well as suggestions for self-help including support groups and self-care.

In the case of a possible heart attack, don’t hesitate to call 911. If the person has never had an anxiety attack before, don’t take any chances. If there is a history of anxiety attacks, stay calm, encourage slow and steady breathing, and be a reassuring presence to the person until the symptoms abate, normally within ten minutes.

Be alert to unusual behavior in family members, friends and co-workers. If someone stops taking part in normal activities, wants to sleep all the time or consistently shows up late to work or school, take time to ask if everything is okay. Be persistent and if you’re not comfortable asking, tell someone else about your concerns. Our county’s 211 Crisis Hotline and Information Center is a rich resource that is available 24/7. Call 211 on speaker phone with the person you’re concerned for and explain the situation to a specialist who will suggest some options.

Above all, if there is someone you have a gut feeling about, trust your instincts. Don’t dismiss or ignore comments about feeling worthless or helpless or a sudden interest in death and dying. If someone starts giving away prized possessions or after a period of depression is suddenly happy, it could mean that the person has made a decision to end his/her life.

Please reach out to let that person know what you’ve noticed, that you care and are concerned. Help is available and there is no reason for someone to be alone with mental health struggles. Letting someone know you are there for them could be just what they need to start on the path toward getting help.

Mental Health America of Licking County is here to assist if you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues. Give us a call at 740-522-1341 or take an online mental health screening at www.mhalc.org. Remember, one in five adults in the United States will have mental health concerns this year. Help is available and there’s no reason to be embarrassed or afraid to ask for it.

Penny Sitler is Executive Director of Mental Health America of Licking County.

Paint and Peers — An Afternoon with COMPEER

By Chelsea Olms (Mental Health America of Licking County Intern/ Ohio State University Student)

“The mission of Compeer is to reduce the isolation and stigma for individuals who experience mental illness, with a commitment to enhance mental health recovery and holistic wellness and increase their community reintegration and inclusion through friendship, meaningful involvement and service.”       —MHALC Website

While driving to the Art Journaling class organized by Mental Health America of Licking County’s (MHALC) Compeer Program, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. In my head, I had imagined a group of people sitting around tables doing art pieces in relative quiet, maybe even with some sort of sullen air. I had also imagined a lot of personal support happening between Shari Johnston (the program coordinator) and members attending the class.

There was definitely a group of people sitting around tables doing art, but that was the only thing my imagination had gotten right.

The group at Compeer wasn’t sullen or quiet at all. In fact, the entire 2-hour class was filled with laughter, collaboration, and general chatting. The members shared their weeks with one another, congratulating successes and encouraging each other to keep going in the right direction. They gave each other meaningful advice, and showed each other a relatability that is unique to the group.

Shari participated in the discussions as well, giving advice and helping to encourage everyone while she worked on a painting of her own. But, it wasn’t the personal support session I had imagined at all. While there was definitely self-help of a sort taking place, it was as a group, and it seemed so much more productive and beneficial to everyone.

In fact, I even participated in the class, doing what Shari called a “passion board,” which is a square of cardstock that you can fill with whatever you want. I enjoy painting, so that’s what I spent my time doing. I could really see, just from that short time, how this program can really work as a form of self-help and support for Compeer members. It was very mood-lifting to paint and listen to all of the members joking with one another, and watching them share their creative pieces with the group.

From passion boards and portrait work, to learning to crochet and petting a wonderful therapy dog, the art class had a little something for everyone to do. There are coloring pages if you prefer that, and even regular paper and pens if you just want to write.

The group was incredibly welcoming, and the atmosphere was that of exactly what MHALC and Compeer strive for—a community of support and acceptance.

Bouncing back from difficulty

By Penny Sitler, Executive Director at Mental Health America of Licking County
Found in The Newark Advocate January 21, 2017

Merriam-Webster’s definition of resilience is an ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change.

As I was pondering the importance of resilience, I came across an October 2016 “People” magazine article by Jeff Nelson about Olympic figure skater Scott Hamilton. I have always admired Scott’s incredible talent and his seemingly endless joy and upbeat attitude. He’s fun to watch on the ice and equally interesting to listen to in the broadcast booth, and I can only imagine how engaging he must be as a skating coach. I’ve secretly wished I could witness him on the ice in person and after reading his recent response to what many would see as the unfair hand he’s been dealt, his hero status for me has grown exponentially because of his resilience in the face of another diagnosis of a life-changing illness.

What I didn’t know until reading the article and watching the accompanying video (Google it – he’s astounding) is that Scott was diagnosed last fall for the third time with a brain tumor. Keep in mind, he first faced cancer in 1997 when he fought – and won – a battle against testicular cancer. His previous brain tumor diagnoses were in 2004 and 2010. According to Jeff, Scott’s recent diagnosis is a benign pituitary tumor.

After acknowledging his deep faith, Scott says he always, no matter what happens, celebrates life. ‘“The first thing I teach skaters at my skating academy is how to get up — because we’re going to fall,” Hamilton says. “And that’s how I live my life: I’m going to fall down, I’m going to make mistakes, I’m going to do all kinds of things that I’m going to wish didn’t happen. But it’s what’s next — it’s how you get up … The more times you get up, the stronger you are to face the next thing, which will happen — because that’s life.”’

What a lesson for all of us. No matter what comes at you, whether it’s illness, family issues, disappointment at school or on the job, do what you must to deal with the situation and then figure out how to move on.

How do you develop a personal strategy for dealing with life’s difficulties? What behaviors, thoughts and actions that result in resilience can be learned by each of us? Here are some suggestions:

Make connections. Feeling connected through relationships with friends, family or others and actively participating in community groups including civic and faith-based organizations helps strengthen resilience.

Accept change. Life is full of change and accepting what’s out of your control allows you to focus on circumstances that you can affect.

Set goals. What can you accomplish that helps you move in your desired direction? Each day, consider one thing you can work on that will help you attain a goal.

Take decisive actions. Don’t wallow in the stress of a bad situation, do what you can to impact it.

Appreciate growth. Look for the positives that come out of negatives. Better relationships, an increased sense of self-worth or an enhanced appreciation for life may result from struggle.

View yourself in a positive light. Have confidence in your problem solving skills.

Keep things in perspective. Often when we set our troubles aside and look at what others are dealing with, we realize that what we’re facing is not insurmountable.

Remain hopeful. An optimistic attitude counts for a lot. Expect a positive outcome.

Take care of yourself. Eat well, get enough sleep and exercise to prepare yourself to deal with the inevitable unexpected things life will throw your way.

Workplace Wellness

From Mental Health America
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/workplace-wellness

Do you Love or Hate your Job?

Loving or hating a job can cause more or less stress in life.  Did you know, 70% of those currently employed are searching for other jobs.

Less than one-third of Americans are happy with their work. Half of the workforce is “checked-out.”  Eighteen percent are unhappy with their current position with some even sabotaging the success of their workplace.  An unhappy or unhealthy work environment is bad for a business’ bottom line and bad for employees.

Studies have shown being unhappy with or unfulfilled by work can take a toll on our health, relationships, and even lifespan. Those in unhealthy work environments tend to gain more weight, have more healthcare appointments, and have higher rates of absenteeism. Stress from work can also impact their family life, mental health, and even increase risks for chronic illnesses and heart attacks.

So what separates the few who are excited about their work from the majority of Americans? While there are some differences among age groups and types of employment, a healthy work environment is key to job satisfaction. The happiest employees tend to include interpersonal relationships, commitment to the organization, and a sense of meaning or purpose among the parts of their job with which they are most satisfied. Conversely, those leaving their jobs tend to cite lack of respect, teamwork, and potential for growth among top reasons for quitting.

Top 5 Reasons for Happy Employees	Top 5 Reasons for Leaving Job
Relationship with co-workers Contribution of work to organization’s business goals Meaningfulness of the job Opportunities to use skills/abilities Relationship with immediate supervisor	Minimal wage growth Lack of opportunity to advance Excessive overtime hours A work environment that does not encourage teamwork A boss that doesn’t allow you to work flexibly

A healthy workplace is one where individuals feel valued and supported, provides a positive workspace, and shows respect for other aspects of a person’s life. If you’re uncertain as to whether your workplace is on the path to wellness, the signs below may provide some helpful tips:

1. Productive Atmosphere. Clean, functional and well-lit space. Good working relationship with all staff. Employees feel respected, appreciated, incentivized, and rewarded. Signs of intimidation, bullying, sexual harassment, and fear are absent.
2. Livable wage. Providing a livable wage encourages a committed and sustained workforce.
3. Reasonable accommodation. Employers and employees have to work collaboratively to identify reasonable accommodations (not special treatment) in the workplace for physical as well as mental disabilities. From changing physical work space and schedule to the use of interpreters or technologically adapted equipment, it can run the gamut.
4. Health, Wellness, & Environment. Provide a comprehensive health insurance plan including smoking-cessation, weight-loss, and substance abuse programs.
5. Open Communication. Keep the communication process transparent. Creating an environment of open communication contributes to a more energetic and productive workforce where all employees can feel invested in the company.
6. Employee Accountability. It takes two to make a healthy workplace. Employees have to come with a "can-do" attitude and be willing to support each other as well as management.
7. Management Accountability. Allow employees to provide work-related feedback to their supervisors. It can be anonymous to avoid the possibility of negative repercussions.
8. Work/Life Balance. We now live in a world where technology is available to keep us connected to work around the clock. Work options such as flexible scheduling, hoteling (reservation-based unassigned seating) or telecommuting ought to be implemented if applicable.
9. Clear & Positive Values. Be transparent and definitive about what the organization stands for. People in as well as outside of the company should have a good understanding of this.
10. Fitness. Offer a gym membership, fitness class or even just an exercise space that encourages employees to become physically active and stay fit. If possible, incentivize employees to access such services