Indiana University's Counseling and Psychological Services will hold screening activities at two Bloomington campus locations, Woodburn Hall and Wright Education Building, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information, contact Nancy Stockton, Psychologist, at (812) 855-5711.
For more information, please contact the individual sites listed above, logon to nationalalcoholscreening day.org, or call 1-877-311-6273 for a screening site near you.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. MHAI works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research and service. Two of its subsidiaries, the Indiana Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking and the Indiana Addictions Issues Coalition, have many organizational supporters participating in the April 8 screening activity.
Tuesday, March 25, 2004
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS HONORS EMPLOYERS
and EMPLOYEES DURING DISABILITIES MONTH CELEBRATION
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Maria Pineda, William Goller and Shmeka Kincaid were honored today as achievement award winners and Pizza Hut received recognition during Community Connections Disabilities Awareness Month celebration sponsored in part by Ray Skillman Oldsmobile.
Community Connections is a not-for-profit corporation providing vocational assessment, training, habilitation and employment services to individuals with disabilities. "Our goals are to increase each participant's vocational independence and enhance their ability to be productive in the community," said Marjorie Mansfield, executive vice president of the Mental Health America of Indiana. Community Connections is a subsidiary of the Association.
The Winners
Maria Pineda, Lifetime Achievement Award winner, is the lobby attendant at the McDonald's located at 2252 U.S. 31 South in Greenwood. After graduating from Greenwood High School in 1997, Maria made an application to the State of Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services for assistance in obtaining a job. Her initial referral to another agency was not successful and another referral was made to Community Connections. Pineda, 25, has been employed at the store since it opened in January 2000, and is one of the few employees who have been working since the store's opening.
She enjoys her part-time job. And her employer, storeowner Paul Wojtowicz, enjoys having her as part of the staff. "She does everything that is asked of her, is always in a good mood, and a joy to be around."
Currently Maria is also a recipient of community habilitation services. She has had her own apartment since August. She also become more active in her community and enjoys meeting new people and seeing new places. Maria will be married later this summer.
William Goller, Career Achievement Award winner, is a dietary aid at Greenwood Village South. After a decades long battle with cancer that hindered his receiving an education, he arrived at Community Connections with a can-do attitude. "I know I will be successful as long as someone will give me a chance," was his mantra. William became a member of Mavis Beasley's staff last February and has excelled. Beasley, who is contemplating retirement, is grooming William to be her successor.
KinderCare, 8829 S. Madison Avenue, employs Shmeka Kincaid, Career Achievement winner. With her kindness and compassion, she is a natural fit to work with her young charges. Connie Mortensen, the center director, said, "Shmeka is a very dedicated employee and a real asset to our staff. Everyone here loves her and wants to help her succeed." Shmeka is pursuing her Childhood Development Accreditation, her second belt in karate, and continues to volunteer at Happy Hollow children's camp.
Dare To Make A Difference
Pizza Hut began its relationship with Community Connections almost four years ago when the Southern Plaza location hired one of its job seekers as a dishwasher. That began a trend that has seen Pizza Hut locations in Franklin and Center Grove hire other persons with disabilities. "All of these locations have been very supportive of their employees. We want to recognize them for taking a stand and contributing to the lives of those persons with disabilities. We hope their commitment will encourage other businesses to consider and hire individuals with disabilities," Mansfield said when she presented the award to Bernie Clardy, Pizza Hut Regional Manager.
What Is Community
Connections?
The Community Connections
Employment Program provides employment opportunities to individuals
with disabilities. Its mission is to increase each individual's vocational
independence and enhance their ability to be productive in their community.
Community Connections focus is to assist job seekers in three main areas:
- Choosing a job
that matches their abilities and interests;
- Getting a job
through training in effective job seeking techniques; and
- Keeping their
job through long-term support and assistance.
Community Connections is staffed by trained Employment Consultants who work as a team to implement the job readiness curriculum, to perform individual job development, to perform placement and to provide job coaching, as needed, with long-term support. All of its consultants are committed to effectively matching individuals with jobs and providing local businesses with productive employees.
Employers who want additional information about the program should call the program's Indianapolis headquarters office to speak with Mansfield at (317) 638-3501 extension 226.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. MHAI works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research and service.
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Saturday, March 6, 2004
Re: Ignore Public Health at Your Peril
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
To the Editor:
So far, the health care debate during this presidential campaign has focused on the serious problems of the uninsured, but the importance of adequately funding public health programs that benefit all Americans has been overlooked. Public health programs must be a funding priority.
Protecting the nation's mental health is a critical public health issue. Mental health needs have been overlooked and services chronically underfunded. An estimated 54 million Americans have a mental illness. Mental illness is the second leading cause of disability and premature death in this country.
As Congress moves
toward a debate on the federal budget, some will call for further cuts
in federal spending. We can't afford to shrink support for our nation's
health or turn our back on those who need mental health care. We need
to do more:
-
Mental health care is even less accessible for young people, leading to more serious health problems including substance abuse, school failure, and even involvement with the juvenile justice system. 80 percent of children entering the juvenile justice system have mental disorders. We must not abandon young people with mental illness to juvenile detention facilities.
-
One of every two people in this country that need mental health care does not receive it. We must help those get the care they need to end chronic homelessness and under-employment.
We must make mental health and public health real budget priorities.
Sincerely,
Stephen C. McCaffrey, J.D.
President and CEO
Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc.
(317) 638-3501 ext. 222
Friday, February 13, 2004
Building the Connections: Mental Health & Aging Conference
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
A new learning opportunity for individuals who specialize in working with older adults will be held March 24 in Indianapolis' Adam's Mark Airport Hotel, 2544 Executive Drive.
"Building the Connections" will increase the knowledge of social workers, psychologists, primary care physicians and others concerning mental health, addictions and aging in Indiana.
At the conclusion of the program, participants should be able to recognize the symptoms of mental illness and or addiction in older adults at the early states of the disorder, understand the relationship between the mind and body of older adults, and understand the difference between appropriate prescribing and polypharmacy.
Speakers for the day long conference include Sanford Finkel, M.D., Chair, National Coalition on Mental Health and Aging; Stephen J. Bartels, M.D., President's Freedom Commission and Consultant on Aging; John J. Wernert, M.D., Indiana Geriatrics Associates; and Richard Alonzo, Ph.D., CADC, Illinois Department of Human Services.
The conference is sponsored by the Mental Health America of Indiana, Indiana Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, Indiana Addictions Issues Coalition, Indiana Counselors Association on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, the Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Section of Psychology and a grant from the Division of Mental Health and Addiction.
Continuing education credit is available for psychologists, social workers, marriage and family therapists, and mental health and alcohol and drug abuse counselors.
For more information or to register before March 15, call (800) 555-MHAI extension 228 outside the Indianapolis metropolitan area or (317) 638-3501 extension 228 within the metropolitan area.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. MHAI works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research and service.
Saturday, January 24, 2004
As Threat of Terrorism Continues, Americans Look for Psychological Support
New Poll Finds Americans Understand the Psychological Nature of Terrorism and Support Efforts to Reduce Mental Health Fall-out
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
INDIANAPOLIS (January 24,
2004) - As Americans continue to experience terrorism threats and warnings,
a new survey from the Mental Health Association and the National Association
of State Mental Health Program Directors found that most understand
the implications of terrorism on mental health. Those surveyed also
revealed they feel the country's elected officials and health networks
have not done enough to address mental health needs related to terrorist
threats.
According to a statement
from the NASMPHD, most Americans are resigned to the belief that we
will suffer another attack, and think it is just as important for the
government to develop programs that deal with fear and distress as it
is to take security precautions at physical installations such as airports.
The findings from a nationally
representative survey that shows that more needs to be done to increase
support for the mental heath impact of terrorism and prepare for the
trauma and distress that would follow another terrorist attack. In fact,
only a quarter of Americans feel the nation's public health system is
currently meeting terrorism-related mental health needs.
"It's obvious a national
need is not being met," said Stephen C. McCaffrey, president and
CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana. "Even as states
across the nation slash budgets and limit access to mental health services
to save dollars, the public expects the government to prioritize mental
health. Funding for the mental health impact of terrorism, however,
continues to take a back seat in America's homeland security."
“Americans are clearly
in need of a strong mental health support system when distress over
the possibility of another terrorist attack starts to have an effect
on the way they perceive the world,” said Suzanne Clifford, Director
of the FSSA Division of Mental Health and Addiction. “Indiana,
however, is taking a leadership role to develop a response system in
the case of a terrorist event or man-made disaster.”
Americans Understand
the Psychological Nature of Terrorism
- Nearly all Americans (93%) agree that the primary goal of a terrorist
attack is to generate fear and distress. Three in four Americans (75%)
say creating fear and distress among the public is the most important
objective of terrorists.
- Half of Americans (50%) and two in three parents (65%) are concerned
that members of their family will experience fear and distress about
the threat of terrorism.
- Young children, people with prior mental health problems and senior
citizens top the list of special populations that Americans believe
are especially at risk of experiencing fear and distress about terrorism.
- Although attitudes about terrorism differ somewhat by gender, age,
income and education, survey results clearly indicate that Americans
of all demographics are highly concerned about the threat of terrorism
and its mental health consequences.
- More than four in five Americans expect another terrorist attack
in the near future - and that belief is consistent across the country,
not just in the northeast.
Americans Want
Reassurance, Programs to Cope with Fear and Distress
- Only a quarter of Americans (25%) think the nation's public health
system is currently meeting terrorism-related mental health needs.
- Three in four Americans (75%) say that public officials could do
a better job of communicating with the public about the threat of
terrorism and its impact on our national psyche and mental health.
- Half of all Americans (50%) say public officials are not effective
at encouraging people to seek help about fear and distress due to
the threat of terrorism.
- Seven in ten Americans (70%) agree with the statement: it is just
as important for the government to develop programs that deal with
the fear and distress people experience as a result of terrorism as
it is to take security precautions at physical installations and airports
to prevent terrorism.
- Message matters, particularly by gender: 44% of men, but only 35%
of women, prefer to hear that the country should stay resolute in
the face of terrorism. But 61% of women, and 47% of men, think that
public officials should: a) stress that it is natural to feel anxious
and fearful about terrorism; and b) offer advice on dealing with it.
Americans Have
Proven Resilient and Say Support Networks and Information Help Avoid
Mental Health Fall-out
- Seven in ten Americans (70%) even say the threat of terrorism has
caused them to realize what is truly important in life, and more than
two in five Americans (42%) have grown stronger in their religious
faith as a result of terrorism.
- When asked about things that make people more resilient, a majority
of Americans say: having a strong and supportive family (90%); knowing
where to go for help or counseling (72%); reassurance that the government
is working hard to prevent a terrorist attack (72%); support from
peers and colleagues (60%); and religious faith (60%).
Mental health experts from
both poll-sponsoring organizations say the survey demonstrates that
Americans understand terrorism's impact on individual and community
mental health. Findings illustrate that Americans want government -
at a national and local level - to do more to address these psychological
impacts.
When asked without a list
of options as to where they would go to get information or help in dealing
with mental health impacts of terrorism, Americans' first instinct is
to turn to their medical doctors (29%) or clergy (21%). Likewise, when
queried about which organization should take the lead in providing information
or developing programs to help with the mental health impacts, one-third
chose the federal government.
"Mental health program
directors and professionals are on the front lines in confronting the
inevitable fallout from living with post 9-11 fear and anxiety,"
McCaffrey said. "As a society, we need to acknowledge that the
parameters of our everyday lives have changed, and that living with
ongoing threats necessitates specific mental health support for many
Americans."
Clifford added,” If
you know someone whose fear of terrorism is interfering with their life,
please encourage him/her to speak with a mental health professional.”
"Public Perspectives
on the Mental Health Effects of Terrorism" reports the findings
from a nationally representative and census-balanced telephone survey
conducted in December 2003 among 750 Americans 18 years of age and older.
The poll, conducted by Widmeyer Research and Polling of Washington,
D.C., has a margin of error of +/- 3.5%.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state’s largest nonprofit organization addressing
all aspects of mental health and mental illness. MHAI works to improve
the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service. For more information, visit www.mentalhealthassociation.com.
The National Association
of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD) serves the interests
of the directors and commissioners of 55 state and territorial government
mental health agencies. NASMHPD and the state agencies it represents
seek to create effective, culturally-sensitive services that promote
recovery and active participation in community life for those they serve.
For more information, visit www.nasmhpd.org.
Monday,
September 22, 2003
COMMUNITY
CONNECTIONS RELOCATES OFFICES; PLANS OPEN HOUSE
-Mental Health America of Indiana Subsidiary Retains Johnson County
Address -
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Community Connections
has relocated its Franklin Division from RJ Parkway to downtown Franklin's
Alva B. Neal Building, 550 E. Jefferson Street. The not for profit corporation,
which provides vocational assessment, training, habilitation and employment
services to individuals with mental illness and developmental disabilities,
will celebrate with an open house on Tuesday, September 30.
According to Sharon
Porter, Director of Vocational Services, the move provided a much larger
space to accomplish the organization's goals. "We occupy the entire
first floor and now have a designated work area, something we did not
have at our prior location. This space, coupled with seven additional
classrooms and an administration area will allow us to better serve
our existing program participants while also providing space for future
growth."
Community Connections
strives with its consumers to attain a number of goals. The first is
to increase each individual's vocational skill, and second, to increase
social independence while enhancing consumer's abilities to be productive
members of the community. Community Connections also provides opportunities
for community integration.
Two Johnson County
residents who have participated in the program have had success in their
rehabilitative efforts.
Anna Wilson has
been a Community Connections program participant since January 1998.
At age 61, she has mastered many life skills over five years. She has
secured gainful employment with Pizza Hut in Franklin, where she has
been employed for one year. Anna formerly resided in a group home but
moved to her own apartment at the end of July. According to Porter,
"We miss her, however we are very excited that she has had the
opportunity to become more independent."
Joshua Salings has
participated in day service programming with Community Connections since
July 2002. Over the past year Josh has had the opportunity to participate
in adult daily living skills, community outings and paid work. He also
began utilizing community-based services through the waiver program
in the fall of 2002. Like Anna, twenty-one year old Josh's residence
has changed. He did what many young men his age do: he left his parent's
home. In July, he moved into a group home.
Community Connections
is a subsidiary of the Mental Health Association of Indiana with four
locations in central Indiana: Franklin, Greenwood, Larue Carter Memorial
Hospital in Indianapolis and Richmond. The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service. For more information about Community
Connections call (317) 736-0305 in Franklin or (317) 881-6088 in Greenwood.
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Monday,
September 15, 2003
NEW
SCHOOL YEAR; OLD PATTERNS BEGIN TO EMERGE
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
As children return
to school for a new year of excitement and learning, old patterns and
traits that make school anything but fun begin to emerge as school enters
its fourth week for many Hoosier students.
The Mental Health America of Indiana encourages parents and teachers to talk with
children about the importance of respecting their peers and speaking
up about bullying during the school year.
Children are faced
with teasing and bullying daily. In fact, two-thirds of young people
have been teased or gossiped about in the past month, and 25% have had
this experience five times or more according to a recent study of fifth
through twelfth graders by the Families and Work Institute. A 2002 national
survey of teens by the National Mental Health Association found that
children who are overweight, gay or perceived to be, and children who
have disabilities are most often targeted for bullying.
"Physical
or verbal abuse forms of bullying take a toll emotionally, and comprise
our children's feeling of safety and self-worth," said Stephen
C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana. "It's important that parents and other adults provide
valuable emotional support, discuss the importance of respecting differences
in themselves and others, and recognize when their children may be having
difficulty coping with the transition back to school."
Many children experience
some anxiety about returning to school. Listen to their concerns, let
them know their feelings are normal and common, and reassure them that
you will be there to listen throughout the year McCaffrey advises. "Spending
15 minutes each day speaking with your child about what is happening
in school, about projects or activities with their friends, will provide
you invaluable information about what is happening in your child's life
and the thoughts and feelings they have on a number of issues. It will
also let you know if trouble is on the horizon," McCaffrey said.
If you find there are problems, consult with your child's teachers,
school counselor or family physician for strategies and actions to combat
the problems.
Teachers should
also think about good mental health as an important component of being
ready to learn. If a child is anxious about the bullying situation,
they will likely have difficulties focusing in class.
Teachers set the
tone in their classroom and ensuring that all students are treated with
respect will help alleviate problem situations. If teachers have concerns
about a student who bullies or one who is being bullied, they should
contact the student's parent and work with other professionals in the
school system to preventive disruptive situations for all students.
Top Ten Tips for
Kids to Stop or Prevent Bullying
- Never make fun
of people who are different from you in any way.
- Start a new
trend; say only nice things about everyone.
- Next time your
parents take you out to eat, try food from another culture.
- Go to the library
and check out different books about kids from different cultures.
- Remember that
what someone looks like on the outside ahs nothing to do with what
is inside.
- Treat everyone
you meet how you would like to be treated.
- If you are being
teased or bullied, tell and adult you trust. Show that you are confident
in yourself by ignoring the bully and walking away.
- Ask different
people what they think about things. Respect their opinions.
- Never stereotype
a whole group of people. Treat each person as an individual who has
his or her own ideas and opinions.
- Believe in yourself!
Just do your best, and be proud of the different things that make
you who you are.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the State
Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to improve
the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service.
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Monday,
September 15, 2003
MENTAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES SPORTS GRIDIRON PLANS
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The Mental Health America of Indiana announces that its annual fundraiser will be
held Thursday, October 30, at the Indiana Roof Ballroom, Indianapolis.
The evening begins at 6 p.m. with a reception, dinner and silent auction
featuring sports memorabilia, followed by the interactive roast.
New for this year,
is a new title and new theme. The Indiana Sports Gridiron: Sports Through
the Ages, blends stage productions with sports from the Roaring 20s
through the smooth Jazz of the 40s to the 70s disco era. Guests will
have the opportunity to recall the great moments of sports and dance
the night away to the popular tunes with Le Masquerade - an entertainment
troupe straight from New York. It's not the usual fund raiser; this
will definitely get you out of your seat!
Corporate sponsorships
are available from $500 to $5,000 dollars. Individual tickets are priced
at $125 each. For sponsorship or ticket information, call (317) 638-3501,
extension 231 or (800) 555-MHAI, extension 231. The honorary chairman
of the event is Jack Jordan of Eli Lilly & Company.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the State
Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to improve
the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service.
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Monday,
September 15, 2003
BACK
TO CAMPUS: TIPS FOR PARENTS & COLLEGE STUDENTS
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Leaving home and
beginning college can be a stressful transition for young adults. While
it is normal to experience conflicting emotions when adjusting to a
new environment, the Mental Health America of Indiana urges college
students to be mindful of their mental health and encourages parents
to pay close attention to their child's emotional well being.
According to a UCLA
study, more than 30% of college freshmen report feeling overwhelmed
a great deal of the time during the beginning of college, and Johns
Hopkins University reported that more than 40% of a recent freshman
class sought help from the student counseling center.
"Reaching out
for help with a mental health problem is not a sign of weakness and
can ensure a healthy and productive college career," said Stephen
C. McCaffrey, president and CEO of MHAI. "If stress or feelings
of uncertainty become unmanageable, students should talk about their
concerns with someone they trust or contact the campus health center,
college counseling service or a mental health professional."
Suicide and Depression
In 1998, suicide was the eighth leading cause of death for all Americans,
the third leading cause of death for those aged 15-24, and the second
leading killer in the college population. According to the Jed Foundation,
a nonprofit group based in New York that seeks to build awareness about
student suicides, the number is about 1,000 student deaths per year.
These statistics
demonstrate the seriousness of suicide, which is often linked to untreated
depression. Clinical depression affects more than 19 million adults
every year, and 95 percent of college students who commit suicide are
suffering from a mental illness, usually depression.
Although women
suffer from clinical depression and attempt suicide more often than
men, men are more likely to complete the act. Any talk of suicide by
a friend or loved one should be taken seriously and help should be sought
immediately.
Why Students,
Administrators and Parents Must Act
Take the case of Michael Frentzel, a freshman at Ferrum College, a small
Methodist liberal arts college in Virginia. Distraught after an argument
with a girlfriend, Frentzel repeatedly banged his head against a wall
and threatened suicide. School administrators responded to the incident,
required Frentzel to sign a note promising he would harm himself, and
then left him alone while they went to speak with the girlfriend. Twenty
minutes later, officials returned to the room and found the student
hanging. Two days later, the family removed him from life support. He
was 20 years old. After the incident, the family sued the school and
was awarded an undisclosed cash settlement, a scholarship in the student's
name and an agreement from the school to revamp the school's mental
health crisis policy.
Common Warning
Signs
Depression and suicide have many common warning signs including sadness
or anxiety; feelings of guilt, helplessness or hopelessness; trouble
eating or sleeping; withdrawal from friends or social activities; loss
of interest in hobbies, work, and/or school; increased use of alcohol
or drugs; and increased anger.
How to Help
If you notice any changes or warning signs, you have reason to be concerned.
There are ways you can show your concern including asking what is bothering
the person, asking directly about thoughts of suicide, listening to
the problems and offering emotional support, and accompanying the person
to a counselor.
For more information, contact your local Mental Health Association or
community mental health center.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the State
Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to improve
the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service.
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Thursday,
September 11, 2003
MENTAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATION CEO APPLAUDS, ENCOURAGES FEDERAL
ROLE IN MENTAL HEATLH REFORM
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
While offering best
wishes for the Governor's improved health during luncheon remarks today
following a forum featuring Hoosier native Charles G. Curie, administrator
of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Stephen
C. McCaffrey, President and CEO Of the Mental Health America of Indiana, told the audience, "We have worked with the Governor's
and his staff on many initiatives, not the least of which is the Access
to Medication language that is held out as the best language in the
United States."
Those in attendance at the forum had the opportunity to hear Mr. Currie
as he talked about the status of the mental health system across our
country. It was also an opportunity for state and local advocates to
share experiences.
According to McCaffrey, "For those of us who are advocates, we
are well aware of the frustrations of the people receiving services,
the crisis in the families, and the results of an overburdened system
of care. While we certainly have much to be proud of in Indiana - we
know that the system here is overburdened and under funded. As I listen
to and have read the information in the President's New Freedom Commission
Report - I am struck that we have spoken these words for so many years.
"I recall the words of George Bliss, the Superintendent of the
Indiana School for "Feebleminded" Youth in 1916, "When
are we as a nation going to wake up and face this mighty task with the
consideration and care it deserves? When are we going to lay out a concerted
and comprehensive plan for dealing with the problem of the "feeble
minded" (the word commonly used for people with serious mental
illness in those days)? I cannot answer the question, but for the sake
of the coming generations, I hope it will be soon."
"Maybe it has taken from 1916 until now to make the mental health
system across America a Presidential priority - but I am optimistic
that maybe we will take a macro look at our systems of care and make
positive changes from the Federal level, to the state level to the local
level and finally to the personal level.
"The difference between now and the past is that we do have scientific
information - in the past 10 to 15 years, we have factual information
that has led to strides in this field that were never thought possible.
Those of us with knowledge no longer call people feeble minded, we no
longer blame our families for failing their children, and we no longer
automatically lock people away in state mental hospitals - in fact the
Mental Health Association worked hard to develop the Community Mental
Health Center system in this state - a system of care that still exists
today.
"I am excited that Charles Currie has been charged with creating
a plan for change so that the work of the President's Commission will
not just be written on pages in a book that will sit on our shelves.
We have reached an historic time in the mental health movement - I believe
that what we do in the coming years will forever be remembered in history
as the moment in time that we had the opportunity to make changes to
this system of care. The moment in time that we had the opportunity
to create a more seamless, effective system that provides quality of
services - services based on best practices that exist in pockets of
our communities. A moment in time that we will reflect on as an opportunity
that we either met or just another opportunity that we have missed.
I cannot state for sure the outcome, but if we in this room and others
across this nation work with people such as Charles Currie - if we keep
reminding people that we have this opportunity - I am hopeful that we
will look back on this day as the moment in time that we each decided
to accept this challenge. I charge each of us to awaken to the opportunity
and I believe the responsibility that is before us.
"As First Lady of our State, Judy O'Bannon stated in her comments
following our Governor's illness, "We have often said there is
no limit to where we can go when we go together." Working together
with people across the nation and across Indiana - we can make changes
that will create a community of services that will change the lives
of people with mental illnesses for the better. These changes won't
occur overnight and they won't occur without the help and wisdom people
who are committed to this cause. Join with me, join with Charles Currie
and our state leaders - let's take advantage of this historic opportunity
so that the generations who follow us can build on the good work that
we have done."
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters
and the State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works
to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education,
research and service.
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Wednesday,
September 10, 2003
MHAI
Offers Tips for Coping With the Anniversary of September 11
Children and Adults Must Be Mindful of Their Mental Health
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The anniversary
of September 11 can be a difficult time for many people. Media coverage
of the observance that includes graphic images and audio from the World
Trade Center, the Pentagon and Flight 93 will stir strong emotions in
many and may produce unexpected anxiety or grief.
"While it is
important to reflect on the events of September 11, people need to be
mindful of their mental health," said Stephen C. McCaffrey, Mental Health America of Indiana president and CEO. "Viewing repeated
images of people running from the collapsing World Trade Center or listening
to 911 calls can trigger emotional distress and provoke anxiety."
Strategies for coping
with the anniversary of September 11:
- Cut back on
TV time.
- Do something
positive such as giving blood or volunteering your time.
- Get plenty of
rest and exercise.
- If you feel overwhelmed
by emotions, ask someone you know for help.
- Don't compare
yourself to others. We all deal with stress differently.
- If you have feelings
that won't go away, seek professional help.
Parents must pay
special attention to the mental health impact on young children who
are often unable to distinguish television from reality and may not
understand that these events took place two years ago. Talking to kids
about their feelings is a good way to help them cope with their anxieties.
Tips to help kids
cope with the anniversary:
- Talk to your
kids about their feelings.
- Plan ahead to
keep them occupied on September 11.
- Cut back on TV
time and pay particular attention to what children are watching.
- Take care of
yourself. Remember that kids model adult behaviors.
- Let them know
that it's difficult for all of us to come to terms with what happened.
Signs that children
may be having trouble coping with their emotions may include fearfulness
about leaving the house; persistent nightmares; frequent worrying; talk
of death or suicide; increased tearfulness, irritability or anger; and
the fear of being left alone. If these signs persist for more than a
week, talk with a doctor or see a mental health professional.
For more information
on coping with the anniversary of September, contact the Mental Health
Association in your area or the local community mental health center.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the State
Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to improve
the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service.
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Friday,
September 5, 2003
MENTAL
HEALTH OFFICIAL TO SERVE AS PANELIST
DURING ISBA FORUM
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Scott E. Cleveland,
General Counsel of the Mental Health America of Indiana, will be
a panelist for the September 23 "Children, Mental Health and the
Law: Breaking Barriers to Care" program.
Cleveland, a former
juvenile public defender, will join Senator Vi Simpson, Senator Luke
Kenley, DMHA Director Suzanne Clifford and others during the public
policy forum entitled, "Overcoming Legislative Barriers and Funding
Constraints to Improve Access to Services."
During the past
year, more than 23,000 Hoosier children were treated for mental and
emotional problems. State agencies estimate nearly an additional 81,000
children require services.
"We are not
doing our jobs as lawyers, nor are we following juvenile laws, if we
do not commit ourselves to identifying at-risk children and helping
them. Across the U.S., the courts are becoming the last stage for social
reform - if lawyers, don't step up to bat for kids, then the battle,
and generations of children who need help, may be lost," Cleveland
said.
Cleveland also
cited a recent walk-through inspection of a juvenile detention facility
where advocates found that over 60% of the children detained were diagnosed
with a mental illness or emotional disturbance. A lack of early intervention
can increase the risk of delinquency, and later, incarceration as an
adult. "Instead of taking a child who is struggling through the
formative teen years and stopping the cycle of questionable judgment,
our system reinforces self-doubt and insures that the child will continue
to walk through the ever-revolving jail door," Cleveland continued.
"Children,
Mental Health and the Law: Breaking Barriers to Care" will be held
Tuesday, September 23 from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at the Indiana Bar Center,
230 E. Ohio Street, 5th Floor in downtown Indianapolis. The public is
invited to attend and a special registration fee is available. Registration
rates are also available for ISBA members and law students. For more
information, call the Indiana State Bar Association at (317) 639-5465.
The forum's sponsors
are the Indiana State Bar Association's Civil Rights of Children Committee,
Children's Law Center of Indiana, and the American Bar Association's
Juvenile Justice Center.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the State
Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to improve
the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service.
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Tuesday,
August 19, 2003
AT
THE CROSSROADS IN AMERICA: ADDICTION
Contact:
Randy Miller, Drug-Fee Marion County, (317) 254-2815 or
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
State and local
mental health and addictions advocates will join together Thursday,
September 4, to shape the destiny of addictions attitudes and treatment
during a National Recovery Month kick-off celebration at Larue D. Carter
Memorial Hospital.
Larue D. Carter
Memorial Hospital is located at 2601 Cold Spring Road on the Indianapolis
northwest side.
Keynote speaker
for the event is William C. Moyers, formerly an award-winning journalist
turned Vice President of External Affairs for the Hazelden Foundation.
Moyers' address, The Great Awakening, is a thought-provoking and informative
presentation exploring 200 years of history surrounding alcoholism and
drug dependency from a public policy perspective. "The United States
is at a crossroads-a great awakening-which challenges professionals
in the addiction field, people in recovery, their families and others
to stand up and speak out on the positive and healing nature of addiction
treatment and recovery," Moyers said.
Moyers talks about
addiction from his unique perspective. A native Texan and former award-winning
journalist, Moyers knows firsthand the power of addiction and the power
of recovery. He travels the country to share his story with policy makers,
business leaders and community groups. He has given interviews with
Larry King, Oprah Winfrey, and the Today show as well as testified before
the U.S. Congress. He will speak for approximately 75 minutes.
"There's been
a great awakening in the nation this year towards what works, and what
doesn't, when it comes to the problems and solutions of addiction,"
says Moyers. "The key is to keep America from going back to bed
on these issues before we can make the changes that are needed."
Moyers points out
that addiction to alcohol or other drugs is a disease that hurts more
than just the person who struggles with it. Family members, employers,
taxpayers and communities big and small are all impacted by addiction;
studies show that it is at the root of many of America's problems. He
further explains that still many people don't understand what it means
to be addicted to alcohol or drugs, and why it is important that when
it comes to treating the illness, society approaches it like it does
other chronic ailments like cancer, diabetes or heart disease.
"My goal is
to shatter the stigma of addiction by putting an accurate face on who
is vulnerable to this illness, and why," Moyers said. He also wants
to prove that people can and do recover, when they get the treatment
they deserve. Finally, Moyers hopes that his story of addiction and
recovery will inspire others to step forward and educate the public
in a way that leads to policy changes in how society confronts alcoholism
and drug dependence.
Other aspects of
the day-long conference include presentations on topics such as Prescription
and Over-the-Counter Drug Abuse, and the relationships between co-occurring
disorders, suicide and other health issues and prescription drug abuse
by local experts Tim Kelly, M.D., Lucy Jane King, M.D., Alan Schmetzer,
M.D., and Virginia Caine, M.D.
The Greater Indianapolis
Council on Alcoholism, Drug-Free Marion County, Indiana Addictions Issues
Coalition, Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addictions, Larue D.
Carter Memorial Hospital and Fairbanks are the sponsors of the National
Recovery Month celebration.
The Indiana Addictions
Issues Coalition is a not for profit, broad-based diverse organization
focused on creating and taking advantage of opportunities to project
a unified voice educating, influencing and advocating for addictions
issues and improving the lives of those affected by addictive disorders.
The Coalition is based in Indianapolis and is a subsidiary of the Mental Health America of Indiana.
For more information
or to obtain a schedule for the full conference, please call (317) 254-2815
or email rmiller@drugfreemc.org.
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Monday,
August 11, 2003
MHAI
Testifies before Indiana Mental Health Commission
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The leader of the
Mental Health America of Indiana told the Indiana Mental Health
Commission about the state of mental health in Indiana today.
Stephen C. McCaffrey,
President of the Mental Health America of Indiana, first praised
the Indiana General Assembly for continuing the 17 member Commission
saying "The Commission plays an important role in previewing and
recommending necessary legislation regarding the mental health of Hoosiers."
Insights on the
Freedom Commission
McCaffrey also addressed
the recent report of President Bush's Freedom Commission on Mental Health.
"While the creation of the Commission proved that mental health
is gaining ground in the political arena, not only in Indiana, but nationally.
The implementation of its recommendations is what will really demonstrate
that mental health is a priority," he said.
In its Interim Report
to the president, the Commission stated that America's current mental
health system is "in shambles," resulting in millions of people
not receiving the care they need. The Commission's final report calls
for transforming fragmented public mental health services into a system
focused on early intervention and recovery. Such a system would provide
people with mental health problems with the treatment and supports needed
to participate fully in their schools, workplaces and communities, a
move with McCaffrey concurs. He further recommended that further mental
health legislation drafted to reflect the Freedom Commission report
in Indiana ensure broad access to a range of advanced treatment services,
including prevention and early intervention and create a strong safety
net while strengthening the quality of services.
2003 Legislative
Session Review
In his review of
the 2003 legislative session, McCaffrey commended Representative Brown
and Senator Lawson for their leadership with the Substance Abuse Parity
legislation. The legislation, which passed, provides that health insurance
policies providing coverage for treatment of mental illnesses must also
provide coverage for the treatment of substance abuse or chemical addiction
if it is necessary for the treatment of a mental disease. "Just
as we expect coverage for the treatment of breathing difficulties that
often accompany heart disease, this legislation helped create similar
fairness in requiring coverage for treatment of a substance abuse problem
that often accompanies, say, depression," McCaffrey said. He went
on to suggest that during the 2004 session, the Mental Health Commission
may wish to amend the parity legislation to make substance abuse parity
a mandatory benefit.
2004 Legislative
Session Preview
McCaffrey presented
a broad overview regarding measures the Commission might want to consider
taking action on during the upcoming session.
Access to Mental
Health Medications
The current law,
a Commission recommendation, took effect in 2002 and insures access
for mental health medications in fee for service Medicaid with exceptions
for fraud, abuse, and inappropriate utilization. During 2003, a system
was created to follow a clinically based process when attempting to
place such limitations. Legislation requires a data driven process,
educational programs for physicians, and in the end, the prescribing
physician has the final say. For 2004, McCaffrey suggested that the
Commission consider applying the access to mental health medications
to Medicaid Managed Care. He supported this action by showing that the
General Assembly has determined the state's policy and the policy should
apply to Medicaid recipients regardless of the type of service.
Forensics
The Commission has taken lead on access to drugs in DOC and diversion
programs. With 2,300 inmates with mental illness, the DOC has twice
as many persons with mental illness than the DMHA hospitals. McCaffrey
stated that the DOC has a contract with Prison Health Services for mental
health services that utilizes a restrictive formulary, an issue that
has received much attention by this Commission. He further noted that
a number of studies show that mental health medications reduce recidivism
in criminals and that the access to medication legislation does not
apply to DOC and recommended that the Commission pursue such legislation.
For further support
of this recommendation, McCaffrey reminded the Commission that MHAI
conducted a seminar on Forensics with national experts and the recommendations
from that seminar were incorporated into a bill, with key provisions
incorporated in last year's budget bill. The Budget Bill contained language
on Diversion and stated "individuals with mental illness and substance
abuse are to receive community based services instead of incarceration."
He further acknowledged that the Courts need to take judicial notice
of the fact that early intervention and treatment will likely decrease
antisocial behavior and that DOC is to provide a report to Budget Committee
with demographics regarding county sentencing. "This program as
it stands now is woefully under funded and could substantially alleviate
budget pressures if fully implemented," McCaffrey said. He suggested
that the Commission propose
legislation on Forensics program specifics and funding.
Psychiatric Advance
Directives
Recommended by Commission
and introduced by Senator Lawson, the bill required amendments to deal
with provider concerns and thus did not receive a hearing. McCaffrey
recommend that the Commission again submit legislation that would enact
Psychiatric Advance Directives.
Funding
"Unfortunately,
during the budget discussions, a proposal to increase the Alcohol Tax
was never written or presented for consideration," McCaffrey said.
Those with Medicaid eligibility have 70% of treatment costs covered
while Medicare pays 80% except for psychiatric services in which it
pays only 50%. He suggested that with the closing of private mental
health services the Commission support and introduce legislation for
a 50% increase in the existing alcohol tax. "Indiana is at a critical
point. The legislature has the means to make a decision that will decrease
some of the social costs of alcohol consumption that impact so heavily
on the state budget," he said.
Other Issues to Consider
McCaffrey urged
the Commission to support the DMHA's priorities resulting from prioritization
process. "You can do so much for persons with mental illness through
supported employment programs," McCaffrey said. "A number
of studies show that these programs enhance a person's well-being while
they are in treatment."
McCaffrey also recommend
that the Commission review children's issues and the administrative
rules outlining the termination of parental rights to receive government
services.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest
nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental
illness. The Association works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers
through advocacy, education, research and service.
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Monday,
July 28, 2003
5th
ANNUAL CONFERENCE ON INFANT MENTAL HEALTH
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The Indiana Association
for Infant and Toddler Mental Health will host The Effects of Violence
on Young Children.
Early intervention
providers, psychologist, child care providers, educators, parents of
young children and others interested in learning about the effects of
violence on young children should attend.
A highlight of
the conference will be keynote speaker; Douglas Davies, MSW, PhD., presenting
"Young Children Who Witness Domestic Violence: Effects, Assessment,
Intervention."
The daylong conference
funded by the Indiana Department of Health, the Indiana Association
for Infant and Toddler Mental Health and the Indiana Department of Education,
Office of Student Services will be held Friday, September 19, 2003 from
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Fountains, 502 E. Carmel Drive in Carmel,
Indiana. Cost is $50.00 for the workshop.
Fee includes morning
refreshments, lunch and materials. Registrations are due no later than
September 13. Class size is limited and walk-in registrations will not
be accepted.
Registration questions
can be directed to Indiana's Unified Training System Connect Office
at (317) 274-7159 or 1-800-887-1467. Questions in regard to content
of the workshop can be directed to Angela M. Tomlin, PhD. At (317) 274-8167.
Certificates of
Completion/Documentation of Attendance will be issued for 6 hours at
the conclusion of the workshop.
The Indiana Association
for Infant and Toddler Mental Health is an inclusive group of individuals,
family members, caregivers, professionals, and agencies who collectively
utilize their knowledge, concern, education, and expertise to actively
advocate, promote, educate and influence local, state, national and
international mental health issues regarding infants and toddlers. It
is a subsidiary of the Mental Health America of Indiana.
The Unified Training
System supports the statewide coordination of training activities related
to young children and provides greater access to learning opportunities
for families and service providers.
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Friday,
July 25, 2003
President's
Commission Offers Remedy for Ailing Mental Health System Mental Health America of Indiana Calls on Policymakers To Move Toward Change
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Indianapolis - When
the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health released its
final report earlier this week with recommendations meant to improve
America's mental health system, the Mental Health America of Indiana
and its 60 county affiliates praised the Commission for its work, but
called on federal, state and local policymakers to prioritize mental
health based on the Commission's recommendations.
"The creation
of the Commission proved that mental health is gaining ground in the
political arena, not only in Indiana, but nationally. The implementation
of its recommendations is what will really demonstrate that mental health
is a priority," said Stephen C. McCaffrey, CEO of the Association.
In its Interim Report
to the president, the Commission stated that America's current mental
health system is "in shambles," resulting in millions of people
not receiving the care they need. The Commission's final report calls
for transforming fragmented public mental health services into a system
focused on early intervention and recovery. Such a system would provide
people with mental health problems with the treatment and supports needed
to participate fully in their schools, workplaces and communities. McCaffrey
lamented, "Unfortunately, as our knowledge of mental illness has
steadily increased, Hoosiers' access to care has paradoxically shrunk.
While worthy investments in mental health research have dramatically
expanded our understanding of and ability to diagnose and treat mental
disorders, we have not made the needed investments to apply those research
findings in our communities where they can make a real difference for
Hoosiers and their families." McCaffrey stated the closing of the
mental health practice at Indianapolis-area hospitals coupled with cuts
in the State Medicaid budget brought on by a sour economy come at a
time when more people are at risk for needing mental health services.
The report called
for a range of services to exist in communities to ensure the mental
health of all Americans. People with, or at risk of, mental health problems
need access to a variety of advanced treatments, early interventions
and supports. Without broad access to services, people with mental health
needs face school and work failure, substance abuse, homelessness, incarceration,
unemployment, and even an increased reliance on emergency services and
even suicide. "The long-awaited Commission's report offers a unique
opportunity not seen in the last decade for mental health advocates,
consumers and family members to work with the government to ensure first
class quality of care for the millions of Americans with mental health
problems. But, if our government refuses to initiate change based on
the Commission's recommendations, the report is fruitless. Any group
of illnesses that affect 54 million Americans must be viewed as a national
public health issue," McCaffrey said.
Suzanne Clifford,
Director of the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction is "pleased
to see that the national assessment is consistent with the priorities
we have chosen to address in Indiana. The state will focus on children,
employment, partnerships with key stakeholders in the community and
regional planning to enhance our system in ways that will drive outcomes
and accelerate recovery."
Mental illness is
the second leading cause of disability and premature mortality in the
United States. Untreated and mistreated mental illness costs American
business, governments and families $113 billion a year, according to
a 2001 report by the National Mental Health Association.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The MHAI
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
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Monday,
July 21, 2003
2003
INDIANA STATEWIDE TRANSITION CONFERENCE
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The 2003 Indiana
Statewide Transition Conference: "Today's Student…Tomorrow's
Adult, Building Successful Transitions" will be held August 7-9,
2003 at the Indianapolis Sheraton Hotel, 8787 Keystone Crossing, Indianapolis.
Students, families,
educators and agency personnel are encouraged to attend.
Keynote speakers
for the conference include: Ako Kambon, President of the Visionary Leaders
Institute; Michael Wehmeyer, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of
Special Education at the University of Kansas, and Kathie Snow, author
of the book, "Disability is Natural: Revolutionary Common Sense
for Raising Successful Children with Disabilities".
Questions regarding
conference registration can be directed to Sheryl Rader at (812) 855-6508
or via email at raders@Indiana.edu.
Stakeholders for
the conference are: ATTAIN, Indiana State University Blumberg Center,
Greater Indianapolis Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, Hamilton-Boone-Madison
Special Education Services, Indiana Council on Independent Living, Indiana
Department of Education, Indiana Department of Workforce Development,
Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, Indiana Institute
on Disability and Community, Indiana Council of Administrators of Special
Education, Indiana Juvenile Justice Task Force, Indiana Parent Information
Network, Inc., Indiana Protection and Advocacy Services, Indianapolis
Public Schools Special Education Student Services, IN*SOURCE, and the
Mental Health America of Indiana.
The Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit
organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness.
The Association works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through
advocacy, education, research and service.
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Monday,
April 28, 2003
MENTAL
HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE: HOW IT AFFECTS AMERICA'S BOTTOM LINE
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Reacting to today's
harsh economic environment, many businesses have tried to reduce costs
by scaling back employee benefits. Believing that's the wrong road to
go down, a growing number of employers are deciding instead to invest
more in their workforce.
"Caring for
our mental health as part of our daily routine is imperative to our
overall health," said Stephen C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of
the Mental Health America of Indiana. "This year's observance
of Mental Health Month puts a special focus on the workplace as an ideal
setting in which to encourage people to incorporate mental health awareness
into their daily lives."
As an example,
McCaffrey highlighted the activities of James Hackett, CEO of Ocean
Energy, one of the largest U.S. Oil and gas production companies. Hackett
has said that if you need people to be more productive, you need to
support them. McCaffrey said Hackett, along with leaders at two other
Houston-based companies, decided to provide their employees with mental
health benefits equal to their physical health benefits and that they
estimated that any increase in cost would be minor and more than offset
by avoidable costs of lost employee productivity.
Business experts
agree that productivity is what is all about in challenging economic
times. One of the biggest drains on productivity is absenteeism. The
annual cost per employee from absenteeism was $789 in 2001. With one
in five adults having a diagnosable mental disorder every year, depression
is recognized as a major reason why people miss work. It costs U.S.
businesses between $33 and $44 billion a year in missed days and poor
work performance.
Also consider the
high cost of employee turnover. Employers pay $4.9 billion annually
to replace employee who quit their jobs because of work and personal
problems. This includes many people who may not want to leave their
jobs but are temporarily overwhelmed by life problems.
These days, employees
are being asked to work much harder and, in many cases, longer hours.
This stretches people and causes stress, sleeplessness, inability to
concentrate and irritability. Cut back on their mental health care benefits
and you could very well increase a business's overall medical costs.
It happened in Connecticut. In a study by researchers at the Yale University
School of Medicine, a 30 percent cost reduction in mental health benefits
at a large corporation triggered a 37 percent increase in medical care
and sick leave (September/October issue of the journal Health Affairs).
It's estimated that between 45 and 98 percent of an employer's mental
health costs are actually offset by increased work productivity.
Besides being the
right thing to do, helping workers with depression and other mental
health problems is money well spent. Treatable more than 80 percent
of the time, depression and other mental illnesses like schizophrenia
have higher treatment success rates than many physical illnesses such
as heart diseases. Easy access to mental health services could help
employees resolve their problems and stay on the job while averting
the high cost of replacing them.
According to Hackett
the message for employers is this: "It pays to provide mental health
services employees need to stay happy, healthy and productive. It's
good for the bottom line.
WORKPLACE FACTS
- In a typical workplace
with 20 employees, four will likely develop a mental illness this year.
(NIMH 2002)
- American employees
used about 8 million sick days in 2001 due to untreated or mistreated
depression. Employee absenteeism due to depression cost US Businesses
between $33 and $44 billion per year. (National Committee for Quality
Assurance, 9/02; NIMH, 1996)
- Anxiety-related
disorders cost the US $42 billion a year in work-related and medical
loses. (NIMH, 1999)
- Work-related stress
can double one's risk of dying from heart disease. (British Journal
of Medicine, 10/02)
- The average amount
employees pay for their employer-sponsored health insurance increased
by 27 percent in the past year to $454 per year. (Henry J. Kaiser Family
Foundation, 2002)
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
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Monday,
April 28, 2003
CREATING
A STIGMA-FREE WORKPLACE
May
1 is National Employee Health and Fitness Day
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
If you were to
ask people who have a mental illness, " What's the worst part of
having a disorder?" many will say, "The stigma." Feelings
of shame, concerns about job security and fear of rejection by colleagues
are often overwhelming and interfere with productivity. And these issues
often discourage many from seeking the help they need.
Many innovative
employers have learned that addressing their employees' mental health
needs makes good economic sense. They also recognize that they play
an essential role in their employees' mental health not only by offering
adequate insurance coverage for mental health care, but also by creating
an environment that supports people who need help.
"Caring for
our mental health as part of our daily routine is imperative to our
overall health," said Stephen C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of
the Mental Health America of Indiana. "This year's observance
of Mental Health Month puts a special focus on the workplace as an ideal
setting in which to encourage people to incorporate mental health awareness
into their daily lives."
To help support
employers, the Mental Health America of Indiana recommends the following
strategies for creating a stigma-free workplace:
Educate:
Employees at all levels of the organization need to learn about mental
illnesses, stress and wellness, as well as the signs and symptoms of
mental health disorders.
It is equally important
to educate staff about the benefits and services their employer provides
and how to access them. Supervisors should receive training to learn
how to intervene appropriately if they think an employee may have a
mental health problem.
Encourage dialogue:
Organizations that can talk candidly about mental health and stress
getting appropriate help set a positive and supportive tone among employees.
Create a safe environment in which staff members are encouraged to talk
about stress, workloads, family commitments and other issues.
Send the message
that mental illnesses are real, common and treatable: Many people
mistakenly believe that mental illnesses are permanent and untreatable.
In fact, with access to appropriate treatment, the vast majority of
people with mental illness see significant improvement in their disorders
and lead stable, productive lives.
Discourage stigmatizing
language: Stigma begins with hurtful labels such as "crazy,"
"loony" or "nuts." Discourage staff members at all
levels from using such language and encourage "people-first"
language, which puts a human face on mental illness. For example, say
"a person with schizophrenia" as opposed to using the dehumanizing
term "a schizophrenic."
Invest in mental
health benefits: Actions do speak louder than words, so it's essential
to invest in mental health benefits, including appropriate insurance
coverage for treatment, and prevention and educational programs. Be
sure to confirm that the treatment and services your organization has
paid for are indeed available through an adequate network of providers.
Try using the
Internet: Some employers are making use of Internet and Intranet
technology to provide mental health and benefit information to their
employees. Some provide useful links from their sites to provider directories
and wellness information, and also offer toll-free information numbers.
Help facilitate
a health transition back to work: Some people may need time off
from work for treatment, and employers need to ensure a healthy transition
back to the office. Management should help create an environment in
which people feel welcomed and encouraged to ask for the help they need
- and, above all, not judged. Employers should also have a policy in
place to accommodate the needs of staff members who have "standing
appointments" for mental health treatment.
Seek consultation:
If your health or mental health administrator includes an Employee
Assistance Program (EAP), its staff may be helpful in implementing all
these efforts. For additional resources of information, contact the
Mental Health America of Indiana at (800) 555-MHAI or your local
MHA chapter.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
ANTI-STIGMA
FACT SHEET
Do you know that
an estimated 50 million Americans experience a mental disorder in any
given year?
Do you know that
stigma is not just the use of the wrong word or action?
Do you know that
stigma is about disrespect, and that stigma is about the use of negative
labels to identify a person living with mental illness?
Do you know that
stigma is a barrier and discourages individuals and their families from
getting the help they need due to the fear of being discriminated against?
Do you know that
many people would rather tell employers they have committed a petty
crime and were in jail, than admit to being in a psychiatric hospital?
Do you know that
some employers are reluctant to hire people who have mental illness?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act such discrimination is illegal,
but it still happens.
Do you know that
stigma results in fear, mistrust, and violence against people living
with mental illness?
DO you know that
stigma results in families and friends turning their backs on people
with mental illness?
Do you know that
stigma keeps people from getting needed mental health services?
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Monday,
April 28, 2003
EVERY
DAY TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
May
is Mental Health Month Kicks Off
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
In recognition
of Mental Health Month, the Mental Health America of Indiana suggests
that Hoosiers try the following tips to help plan a full week that will
leave you feeling good, inside and out. If you are receiving treatment
for a mental health problem, these tips can help you manage your illness
and support your treatment and recovery.
Sunday: Relax.
Try meditating, taking a walk in a natural setting, or reaching out
spiritually through prayer. Quiet reflection, alone or in the company
of others, can improve your state of mind, strengthen your sense of
self and community, and give you time away from a hectic schedule to
collect your thoughts and re-energize for the week ahead.
Monday: Make
a plan. Decide what tasks you need to complete for the week and
make a plan for when and how to do them. If you are overscheduled, decide
what can wait a week or two. If you don't have much on your schedule,
plan some activities you'll look forward to.
Tuesday: Surround
yourself with supportive people. Make plans with family members
and friends, or seek out activities at which you can meet new people,
such as a club, class or support group. Reconnect with someone you have
lost touch with and create new memories.
Wednesday: Take
care of your body. Taking care of yourself physically can improve
your mental health. Be sure to eat nutritious meals, avoid cigarettes,
drink alcohol only in moderation, drink plenty of water, get enough
sleep and exercise regularly.
Thursday: Give
of yourself. Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else.
You'll feel good about doing something tangible to help someone in need
- and it's a great way to meet new people who share your interests and
compassion.
Friday: Broaden
your horizons. Create a change of pace or expand your interests.
Explore a new hobby, plant a garden, plan a road-trip, try a new restaurant,
take dance lessons, or learn to plan an instrument or speak another
language.
Saturday: Value
yourself. Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism.
Take stock of the qualities you like about yourself, your accomplishments
and abilities. Take some time every day to relax, reflect and rejuvenate.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
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Wednesday,
March 26, 2003
COPING
WITH WAR AND TERRORISM AT THE WORKPLACE
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
With the onset of
war with Iraq and the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks, our world
has changed drastically, and focusing on "business as usual"
has become extremely difficult. But occupying our time with the routine
of work is a necessary step in coping with crisis.
"Each person
reacts differently to a crisis and a range of responses can be expected,
said Stephen C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. "You must remember, however, that for some people
the effects may not be felt immediately but, instead, arise months later."
Signs of Emotional
Impact
As the war and the
terrorist threat continue, McCaffrey says employers may begin to see
evidence of the emotional impact on employees. This may play out in
their performance and productivity in the following ways from working
slowly to missing deadlines. Other signs include: appearing numb or
emotionless; withdrawal from work activity; absenteeism, calling in
sick frequently; overworking; irritability and anger; forgetting directives,
procedures and requests; difficulty concentrating and making decisions;
and difficulty with work transitions or changes in routines.
What Employers
Can Do
To help your employees
work through the emotional tolls of this crisis and reduce the impact
on your organization's productivity, the Mental Health America of Indiana (MHAI) recommends the following actions:
Educate your
supervisors and managers. Inform all supervisors and human resources
professionals about the signs of emotional distress; all policy changes
and actions being taken in response to the crisis; and available counseling
resources so they, in turn, can inform their staffs. Direct them to
encourage employees to seek counseling when necessary. Have them tell
employees that your doors are open to them during this and other times
of crisis. Designate a human resources or other manager as a contact
person.
Provide educational
resources. Your employee assistance program (EAP), human resources
unit and/or local mental health center may have educational materials
and information on covered treatment resources. Make sure to have up-to-date
provider listings, as well as information about available benefits and
the processes for accessing care. Tell employees whom they should contact
if they have trouble accessing services or if they are unhappy with
the quality of care they receive.
Facilitate communication
among employees. Support from their colleagues can help people work
through difficulties. Consider allowing people to break from work periodically
to talk. Provide a comfortable environment where they can gather.
Consider bringing
a professional counselor/facilitator on-site. A professional can
conduct group meetings and provide individual counseling. This will
help you identify and get help to those who need it most. This will
help alleviate their immediate anxiety and reduce their need for services
later on.
Consider temporary
changes in your leave and travel policies. Allow people to take
time off beyond the norm to donate blood, take part in community activities
and to address personal needs. With regard to travel, reassure employees
that you have their safety in mind, first and foremost. Tell them about
any short-term travel policy changes, and let them know that policies
will be revised as required by future events.
Promote tolerance.
Warn employees that you will not tolerate hostility directed at members
of specific ethnic or religious groups, in the workplace, among your
customers or in the community. Supervisors will challenge discriminatory
remarks or actions, or any form or harassment, and disciplinary action
will be taken.
Organize community
activities. Hold a blood drive, collect donations for "care
packages" or encourage writing letters to people in the military.
Show employees that your organization is committed to helping those
in the workplace, and to supporting our service men and women.
Plan for future
emergencies. Create or review your organization's emergency plan
to address any situations that might arise from the current crisis.
Involve all levels of staff in the planning. Remind employees of emergency
procedures. Feeling prepared will help ease their anxiety.
What Employees
Can Do?
Know what to
expect of yourself. You may not be prepared for the intensity of
your emotions or how quickly your moods can change. If your feelings
are too much to bear, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Mental health problems - in general and in response to this crisis -
are real, diagnosable and treatable. Furthermore, mental health treatment
is very effective. People should never be embarrassed to seek the help
they need.
Talk with your
co-workers and listen patiently. If you feel grief, anxiety or anger,
you are not alone. Talk with colleagues who are experiencing the same
feelings. Be aware of the special needs of people who have loved ones
in the military or living overseas. When listening, don't try to "fix
it" or offer false comfort, especially if somebody has lost a loved
one. Instead, offer a simple expression of sorrow and take time to listen.
Discourage damaging ways of coping, such as excessive drinking. Don't
hesitate to recommend professional help if needed.
Accept that life
will go on. Acknowledge that everyday life will be subdued and,
perhaps, different in some way, depending on your particular situation,
but there will be continuity. Continuing everyday routines helps with
healing.
Take care of
yourself. Eat well, get plenty of rest and exercise, spend time
with those closest to you, postpone major life decisions and other significant
stressors if you can, and seek professional help when necessary.
Take care of
your children. You may be concerned about the well being of your
children. There are things you can do to help them handle the effects
of this crisis such as turning off the TV news when children are in
the room; maintaining a family routine, and reassuring your children
they are safe. You can also let children express their feelings and
ask questions and share your own coping strategies with them.
The Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit
organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness.
The Association works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through
advocacy, education, research and service.
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Friday,
March 21, 2003
JUVENILE
JUSTICE: REHABILITATION OR IMPRISONMENT SEMINAR PLANNED
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The Indiana Federation
of Families for Children's Mental Health and the Indiana Juvenile Justice
Task Force will host Coming Together for Our Children, Juvenile Justice:
Rehabilitation or Imprisonment.
Community leaders,
people who work with youth, and young people themselves agree that youth
problems can no longer focus on individual youth without taking into
consideration families and parents. "By creating collaboration
between family members, providers of mental health services, and juvenile
justice staff, we can overcome barriers of meeting the treatment needs
of youth with mental health needs in the juvenile justice system,"
said Stephen C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana. "As a result, this forum has been designed to foster
a spirit of cooperation among parents and professionals working to improve
the lifestyle of troubled youth."
The highlights
of the conference include a Juvenile Justice 101 presentation by Laurie
Elliott of the Indiana Juvenile Justice Task Force and the Children's
Law Center of Indiana, a panel discussion addressing frequently asked
questions by parents, and a session featuring a parent and child perspective.
The daylong conference,
co-sponsored by the Center for Mental Health, will be held Saturday,
May 3, from 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Millcreek Civic Center, 17 Veterans
Blvd. (S.R. 32) in Chesterfield. Cost is $25 for Individual Family member
and $35 for Individual Professional. Registrations are due by Friday,
April 18, to the Indiana Federation Office. For more information or
to register, call (317) 638-3501, extension 228 or outside the Indianapolis
metropolitan area (800) 555-6424, extension 228.
Mental health needs
cut across all income, education, racial, ethnic, and religious groups.
They are found among single and two-parent homes as well as in birth,
adoptive and foster families.
Within these differences,
families have many common issues. They share the need for an accurate
assessment and appropriate therapeutic, educational, social and recreational
programs for their children. They also need services that support their
efforts to help their children learn, develop and grow within their
own homes and communities. Many face staggering costs for special treatment,
education or other services.
The Indiana Federation
of Families for Children's Mental Health, a subsidiary corporation of
the Mental Health America of Indiana, provides an opportunity for
family members to work with professionals and other interested citizens
to improve services for their children with emotional, behavioral or
mental health disorders.
The Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit
organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness.
The Association works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through
advocacy, education, research and service.
The Indiana Juvenile
Justice Task Force, Inc., established in 1973, is the state's only nonprofit
organization focusing solely on the needs of children and families affected
by the juvenile justice system. The mission of the Task Force is to
impact systems and policies so as to ensure the well-being of youth
and families involved in the juvenile justice system across Indiana.
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Wednesday,
March 19 2003
MCKEE
TO LEAD MERED COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS PROGRAM AND MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION
IN WAYNE COUNTY
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Kristy
McKee, Division Manager of Community Connections, has been promoted
to lead both the Community Connections program and the Mental Health
Association in Wayne County.
McKee, a five-year
employee of Community Connections, will lead both organizations as a
result of a merger completed in January. She earned an associate degree
from Indiana University-East with an emphasis in multi-cultural diversity
and drug and alcohol dependency. Prior to joining Community Connection
in 1997, McKee was employed as a home based care manager for a mental
health center. She has more than 10 years' experience with the CMI (critically
mentally ill) population.
Active in community
affairs, McKee serves on the Step Ahead Council and is a member of the
Indiana Association for Persons in Supported Employment.
"The Mental Health America of Indiana is pleased and optimistic about the future
of the MHA in Wayne County. We feel that merging the two entities will
bring about efficiencies and at the same time enable us to provide an
even greater array of services," said Stephen C. McCaffrey, President
and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana.
McKee said, "I
welcome the challenge this role brings. I look forward to continuing
my work with Community Connections while educating the community and
sharing the resources of the Mental Health Association in Wayne County."
Community Connections,
a not-for-profit-corporation providing vocational assessment, training,
habilitation and employment services to individuals with mental illness
and other disabilities, is a subsidiary of the Mental Health America of Indiana.
The Mental Health
Association in Wayne County is one of more than 60 local chapters of
the Mental Health America of Indiana. The State Association, which
is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit addressing all aspects of
mental illness, works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through
advocacy, education, research and service.
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Wednesday,
March 19 2003
HELPING
OUR CHILDREN DEAL WITH WAR
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
In this time of
heightened anxiety over impending war with Iraq, our children are experiencing
fear and anxiety too. They're seeing news reports and hearing people
around them talk about the war and terrorist threats here at home. But
unlike adults, children have little experience to help them put all
this information into perspective.
Whatever their age
or relationship to adults who are involved in the war effort, children
need to be able to express their feelings and concerns about the war.
"They also need to be assured they are safe," says Stephen
C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana. "They are seeing news reports and hearing people around
them talk about impending war, and that can lead to feelings of vulnerability
and confusion. As adults, it's our job to encourage them to talk, listen
to them and answer questions they may have."
In communities across
the state, school-aged children and their parents have received letters
about how a Code Red nationally would affect the school. Many schools
have an emergency policy in place to go into a "lockdown"
in the event of a Code Red. Because the schools sent home letters with
the students and because the media has talked so much about the war,
many children are feeling anxious.
Things to
remember with all children:
- Acknowledge children's
worries and uncertainties about war. Reassure them that their feelings
are normal.
- Children's reactions
to the war may be heavily influenced by your own. Your reactions are
key in helping children decide whether the world is a safe or scary
place.
- Children need comforting
and frequent reassurance that they're safe - make sure you give it to
them.
- Provide activities
for children that help them explore their feelings, such as classroom
discussions, informal play, community service projects, and writing,
music, art or drama projects.
- Maintain family
routines and keep the lines of communication open.
- Create a family
plan to follow in the event of an emergency.
While many parents
do not believe that young children are affected by what is going on,
one seven year old brought home the letter and was very concerned and
afraid. She cried that she was afraid and said, "Will the people
come here to fight like they did in the Civil War?" By talking
openly with children and acknowledging their fears as well as clearing
up their confusion, we can help set our children's minds at ease. This
7 year old went back to school the next day and in class discussion,
she explained what she had talked about with her parents and even helped
other children understand more about the situation.
Here are some
more tips on how to help children of all ages deal with the subject
of war:
Preschool age
children
- Reassure preschoolers
that they're safe. Provide extra comfort and contact by discussing their
fears, staying in touch during the day and giving lots of hugs.
- Get a better understanding
of their feelings about the war. Encourage them to draw pictures about
the war and then discuss them. This offers insight into children's particular
concerns or fears.
- How you say something
is perhaps as important as what you say. Three- to five-year- olds looks
to their parents and other important adults in their lives to gauge
their reactions and decide how they should feel. If they see worry and
fear in the adults around them, they are likely to become worried and
afraid. But if routine and calmness reigns, most preschoolers will equate
thoughts of war with a faraway place.
- Don't be caught
off guard if certain behaviors reappear or intensify in children. Children
aren't misbehaving if they return to bedwetting, thumb sucking, baby
talk or fear of sleeping alone, or if they complain of stomachaches
or headaches and don't want to go to school. They're expressing their
fear.
Grade-school
age children
- Expect questions
about the war from this age group. Try to answer them in simple and
clear language. Use a map or globe to illustrate how far away the war
is. Also, explain that the police and many others are working hard to
keep us safe here at home.
- If a child is
concerned about a family member, such as a parent, serving overseas,
don't tell them not to worry. Explain that a lot of people are also
concerned about Mom or Dad being safe and that Mom or Dad have practiced
their job a lot for this moment in time.
- Be honest. False
reassurance doesn't help this age group. Don't say nobody will die.
Children know this isn't true. Instead say, "I will always be here
to keep you safe" or "Adults are working very hard to make
things safe."
- Monitor their television
viewing. Limit the amount of war coverage they see. Schedule an alternate
activity during the news hour without calling attention to your real
concern. A walk around the block, homework, a good movie on the VCR
or a fun dinner around the table won't necessarily make kids feel like
they're being restricted.
- Don't be afraid
to say I don't know. Part of keeping an open dialogue with your children
is not being afraid to say that you don't have all the answers. When
you don't, explain that wars are very complicated and things happen
that even adults don't understand.
Middle- and high
school age youth
- Plan for shared
time in front of a reliable national newscast. Because the war will
be discussed in school every day, your teen may be more ready to talk
when he or she gets home than you'd guess. This is a good opportunity
for conversation.
- Discussing history
with this age group can help put the war and related politics in context.
- Get teens to open
up about what they've heard each day about the war. Use the opportunity
to correct any misinformation they may have acquired.
- This age group
may ask very technical or even grisly questions that may seem off the
wall to you. Take each question seriously and do the best you can to
answer it.
- Encourage them
to work out their own positions on the war - even it differs from your
own. This is an age when kids are developing personal ethics and morals,
a process you can support with open discussion and debate.
- Create a family
plan to follow in the event of an emergency. Make sure that each family
member has everyone's phone/cell numbers and knows where to meet. This
will make teens feel safer and may help reduce panic if an emergency
does occur.
If you are worried
about a child's reaction, or have ongoing concerns about his or her
behavior or emotions, contact your pediatrician or a mental health professional
at school or at your community mental health center. You can also call
the Mental Health America of Indiana at (317) 638-3501 or outside
the Indianapolis area (800) 555-6424. For questions about your school's
preparedness plan, contact your school superintendent.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
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Tuesday,
February 25, 2003
MENTAL
HEALTH ADVOCATES "RING" SUPPORT DURING STATE HOUSE RALLY
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
A mock rock concert
venue set the stage for over a thousand mental
health and addiction advocates to gather at the Indiana State House
today to rally support for a number of issues that could impact mental
health and addictions treatment.
From Evansville
to South Bend, advocates rang small bells to sound an
alert to their legislators to support measures to ensure Treatment
Works! Orchestrated by the Mental Health America of Indiana and
the
Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, the event was third
one held by the groups.
Hoosier musician
turned addiction counselor, Jim Ryser shared his story
of recovery and encouraged the crowd. Ryser discussed the incredible
personal losses incurred during his 18-year battle with addiction, along
with the gains he has discovered since his sobriety date of September
11, 1999. He states that in 1990, he traded a 7 million dollar record
deal for his addiction. He learned exactly "how it happened"
in
treatment, which educated him to the lack of real choice when engulfed
in the disease. Treatment afforded Ryser a new lease on life, which
includes an upcoming marriage along with new job as a Chronic Pain and
Chemical Dependency Counselor at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis,
Indiana.
Stephen C. McCaffrey,
President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana, provided updates about the latest budget
developments and urged those assembled to ask their legislator to
support an increase in the state alcohol tax to fund additional
treatment, to maintain Medicaid funding for mental health medications,
to support substance abuse parity and diversion/treatment programs for
mentally ill offenders.
Regarding the proposed
flat lining of Medicaid, "Unfortunately, when
policymakers talk about mental health treatment, too often the focus
is
on short term cost, when it should be on the long term benefits,"
McCaffrey said. "Medicaid pays for critical mental health medications
that oftentimes prevent inpatient hospitalization or incarceration
costs." Jim Jones, Executive Director of the Council, said, "Those
at
the greatest risk are the working poor who can't afford treatment
without assistance."
As for the alcohol
tax, McCaffrey offered that if the state raised the
alcohol tax by 50%, Indiana could raise $19 million dollars. "A
portion
of these new funds could be used to fund treatment initiatives,"
he
said. The state currently spends 13% of its budget on substance abuse
related costs.
HB 1135, which
passed the House on third reading by a vote of 62-33, is
a continuation of legislation passed two years ago that added substance
abuse to the definition of mental illness for state employees. "This
would do the same for individuals who are not state employees, but work
in the private sector," McCaffrey said. He emphasized there is
not cost
to the state. The measure will move to the Senate for a committee
hearing in the next few weeks.
The groups are
also supportive of legislation that would establish a
forensic collaboration program to provide service to adults with mental
illness and for the establishment of a diversion program for those same
adults to receive treatment in lieu of incarceration. "People with
mental illness cycle through the DOC system, to the community system,
back to the DOC system and so it goes. The revolving door situation
does not save money. It does not ease the strain on an overextended
judicial system. It does not help police. It does not make the community
a better place to live in. And most of all, it does not serve the person
with mental illness in a human manner," said McCaffrey.
Mental illness
is the second leading cause of disability and premature
mortality in the United States. Untreated and mistreated mental illness
costs American business, government and families $113 billion a year
according to a 2001 National Mental Health Association Report.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and
largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health
and mental illness. The Association works to improve the mental health
of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research and service.
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Friday,
February 21, 2003
GROUPS
CALL FOR REVIEW OF DOC POLICY REGARDING
MENTALLY ILL INMATES' TREATMENT
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Advocates for the
mentally ill called upon the Indiana General Assembly to require the
Indiana Department of Correction to revise its policies regarding treatment
of mentally ill inmates.
According to the
DOC, over 2,000 persons with mental illness were incarcerated in Indiana.
That number is twice the number of patients in state mental health facilities.
Forensics will
be one of the issues addressed during the Mental Health & Addictions:
Treatment Works Rally at the State House on Tuesday, February 25 at
2 p.m. The Rally, coordinated by the Mental Health America of Indiana
and the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, will get
the message to state lawmakers that Treatment Works. The event's featured
speaker is Hoosier musician Jim Riser, a person in recovery.
Treatment at
the Indiana DOC
"All too often, jails and prisons appear to be the 'place of last
resort' for too many people with mental disorders," said Mental
Health Association President and CEO Stephen C. McCaffrey. One unintended
consequence of closing state facilities and returning people back to
the community is that it has become far more difficult for many people
with mental illness to access the mental health system. Too many people
with mental illness live in the community without adequate support services
or medications. Unfortunately, the outcome for many is they are sent
to a correctional system that offers 24/7 supervision and housing, but
little or no psychiatric care.
"The bottom
line is that there is a severe shortage of treatment for people with
mental illness while they are incarcerated. They leave that system no
better and most likely quite worse, than when they were first incarcerated,"
McCaffrey said.
Medications at
the Indiana Department of Corrections
Currently, the Indiana Department of Corrections has a contract with
Prison Health Services to dispense pharmacy and there is a formulary
in effect. If there are cheaper alternatives to the new medicines for
the treatment of mental illness, these are the medications that will
be chosen. While this policy will cut pharmacy costs in the short run,
research has shown that costs shift to more costly services such as:
emergency care, the need for the use of other medical services and a
"revolving door" into the DOC system.
Unfortunately, the
cost of the new medications has caused some systems of care to restrict
the use of these medications. "The only reason that de-institutionalization
was possible was because of the advances in research and the medications
available. Many of these individuals become eligible for Medicaid and
have access to these medications while they are in the community but
not in prison," said McCaffrey. "It's just not right."
Senate Bill 155,
an initiative prepared by the Indiana Commission on Mental Health, would
allow a DOC offender to be prescribed medication on the Medicaid list.
Another measure, Senate Bill 476, would require the DOC to evaluate
an offender for mental or addiction disorders and to arrange for their
treatment. That measure would establish a forensic collaboration program
to provide services to adults with a mental illness engaging the criminal
justice, mental health and other service systems. It also calls for
the establishment of a diversion program to permit an adult with a mental
illness or addictive disorder to receive treatment in lieu of incarceration.
Public Thoughts
Recent public opinion polls, including one by TeleResearch Corp. for
a central Indiana media partnership, found that 51 percent of the public
supports the idea of community corrections. The same number said lawmakers
should take dollars away from prisons if state budget cuts become necessary.
Similar numbers were reported in a 2001 survey for the Pew Research
Center by Princeton Survey Research Associates. Forty seven percent
responded that moving away from the idea of mandatory prison sentences
for non-violent offenders was a good thing with 52 percent responding
that drug use should be treated more like a disease than a crime.
Revolving Door
Crisis
It comes as little surprise that many ex-offenders with mental illness
find themselves back in the criminal justice system again in short order.
Recidivism costs DOC systems millions of dollars each year. "People
with mental illness cycle through the DOC system, to the community system,
back to the DOC system and so it goes. The revolving door situation
does not save money. It does not help ease the strain on an overextended
judicial system. It does not help police. It does not make the community
a better place to live in. And most of all, it does not serve the person
with the mental illness in a humane manner," said McCaffrey.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is a statewide organization with 60 local chapters
across Indiana. The Association advocates for people with mental illness
and works to educate the public about mental health issues. For more
information call 317-638-3501.
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Thursday,
February 20, 2003
MENTAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATION SUPPORTS BILL FOR PARITY FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES;
BILL MOVING TO SENATE
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The Mental Health America of Indiana lauded the Indiana House of Representatives for
passing H.B. 1135, a measure providing insurance coverage for services
in the treatment of substance abuse and chemical dependency when required
in the treatment of a mental illness. The bill now moves to the Indiana
Senate.
The parity bill
will be one of the issues addressed during the Mental Health & Addictions:
Treatment Works Rally at the State House on Tuesday, February 25 at
2 p.m. The Rally, coordinated by the Mental Health America of Indiana
and the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, will get
the message to state lawmakers that Treatment Works. The event's featured
speaker is Hoosier musician Jim Riser, a person in recovery.
According to Association
President and CEO Stephen C. McCaffrey, "HB 1135 is a continuation
of legislation passed two years ago that added substance abuse to the
definition of mental illness for state employees. This would do the
same for individuals who are not state employees, but work in the private
sector. There is no cost to the state."
This legislation
also does not apply to a small business with 50 or fewer employees or
individual policyholders. And, McCaffrey stressed, the bill is not a
mandate. It does not require an insurance policy to offer the benefit.
It says that if the benefit is offered, the policy cannot discriminate
against mental illness, which would by definition include substance
abuse. The co-pays, annual limits, lifetime limits and deductibles for
substance abuse would be the same as they are for mental and physical
coverage. The measure does not prohibit the use of managed care.
A substantial premium
increase will not result with passage of HB 1135. McCaffrey referred
to a US Government study which found that an average increase to be
two-tenths of one percent (.2%). A current state statute has a provision
that a business can be exempted if there is a 4% increase in the premium
that results from mental illness coverage which again would include
substance abuse. It is important to note that no Indiana business has
obtained the exemption since mental health parity became law.
With passage of
HB 1135, money would be saved as a result of untreated substance abuse.
Another US Government study reports every person in the U.S. pays approximately
$1000 per year for unnecessary health care, extra law enforcement, auto
crashes, crime and lost productivity resulting from untreated addiction.
Mental illness
is the second leading cause of disability and premature mortality in
the United States. Untreated and mistreated mental illness costs American
business, governments and families $113 billion a year according to
a 2001 National Mental Health Association report. In Indiana, the Division
of Mental Health, in a report prepared by Mercer Actuarial in 2001,
estimated 87,267 persons at 200% of poverty who needed substance abuse
services did not receive them due to lack of funding.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
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Wednesday,
February 19, 2003
Mental
Health Experts Provide Tips for Coping With Terrorist Threat
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Many people are
feeling heightened levels of anxiety and vulnerability with the widespread
media attention on possible terrorist attacks, potential for war with
Iraq and the North Korean nuclear capability. The Mental Health America of Indiana has developed tips to help people understand and cope with
the range of reactions they may experience during this time of uncertainty.
"The heightened
terrorist threat level coupled with a host of disquieting news from
economic distress to the Columbia space shuttle tragedy is likely to
create fear and anxiety in all of us," said Stephen C. McCaffrey,
MHAI President and CEO. "Paying attention to your mental health,
and the mental health of loved ones is crucial."
Strategies for coping:
- Remain engaged
in the world by staying connected with people. Don't withdraw. Talk
to family, friends or co-workers about your fears.
- Keep up with the
news, but don't watch it around the clock.
- Take necessary
precautions, but don't overdo it. Make an emergency communication plan
with family and friends. Re-introduce yourself to neighbors and exchange
phone numbers.
- Maintain your regular
routine and include time to do things you enjoy.
- Get involved in
local activities. Attend a meeting on community preparedness, send a
donation to a relief fund or find other ways to volunteer.
- Take care of your
health. Make time for exercise and other pleasurable activities that
distract you and lower your stress level. Avoid drugs and alcohol.
- Be optimistic about
the challenges ahead. Stay in touch with your spirituality.
If you are anxious
or if your "down" feelings don't go away or are so intense
that they interfere with your daily life, seek the help of a mental
health professional. This can be particularly important for those who
have depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other mental
health or substance abuse problems.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is a statewide organization with 60 local chapters
across Indiana. An affiliate of the National Mental Health Association,
the Mental Health America of Indiana advocates for people with mental
illnesses and addictive disorders, and works to educate the public about
mental health issues in our communities.
FYI: Copies of NMHA's
fact sheets on helping adults and children cope with terrorism, violence
and fear are available online at www.nmha.org
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Wednesday,
February 19, 2003
MENTAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATION SUPPORTS INCREASED ALCOHOL TAX
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Mental Health America of Indiana called on the Indiana General Assembly to consider an alcohol
tax increase. Advocates pointed to research showing that an increase
in alcohol taxes or the cost of alcoholic beverages causes a decrease
in alcohol consumption - especially youth consumption. They also said
increased taxes will also lead to a decrease in alcohol-related traffic
crashes, violent crimes and cases of liver cirrhosis.
The alcohol tax
will be one of the issues addressed during the Mental Health & Addictions:
Treatment Works Rally at the State House on Tuesday, February 25 at
2 p.m. The Rally, coordinated by the Mental Health America of Indiana
and the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, will get
the message to state lawmakers that Treatment Works. The event's featured
speaker is Hoosier musician Jim Riser, a person in recovery.
Fiscal Impact
"Alcohol taxes have not been raised in Indiana since 1981, leaving
alcohol prices virtually unchanged, said Stephen C. McCaffrey, President
and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana. Adjusting for inflation,
the average Indiana beer tax in 2000 was one-third of the beer tax in
1968. The current user fee is significantly under the national average
the majority of Indiana's neighboring states.
| |
Indiana's
proposed alcohol tax increase (per drink) |
Indiana's
current alcohol taxes (per drink) |
National
alcohol tax averages (per drink) |
Alcohol
tax rates in neighboring states (per drink) |
| Beer |
1.08 cents |
5 cents |
IL - 1.7 cents
KY - 4.69 cents
MI - 1.9 cents
OH - 1.7 cents |
1.62 cents |
| Spirits |
3.14 cents |
12 cents |
IL - 5.2 cents
KY - 2.27 cents
MI - Not available
OH - 3.9 cents |
4.71 cents |
| Wine |
1.84 cents |
4 cents |
IL - 2.9 cents
KY - 1.95 cents
MI - 2 cents
OH - 1.2 cents |
2.76 cents
|
"If Indiana
raised its alcohol tax by 50%, it could raise an additional $19 million
in state funds. Currently the state spends 13% of its annual budget
on substance abuse related costs. These new funds should be used to
fund treatment
initiatives," McCaffrey said. McCaffrey referred to a Mercer Actuarial
Report completed for the Division of Mental that showed more than 87,000
individuals at 200% of poverty requiring substance abuse services did
not receive them to due to lack of funding when the report was completed
in 2000.
Social Impact
When alcohol taxes are increased, research shows that the greatest impact
is on youth - whose consumption of alcoholic beverages decreases. A
1% increase in the alcohol tax results in a .3% decrease in consumption
of beer, a 1.5% decrease in consumption of spirits, and a 1% decrease
in consumption of wine. A 10% increase in price could decrease the number
of binge-drinking episodes by 8% per month.
Underage consumption
in Indiana
- 10% of 6th graders
report monthly alcohol use, and 25% of 8th graders report monthly alcohol
use.1
- 40% of 10th graders
report monthly alcohol use, and 50% of 12th graders report monthly alcohol
use.1
- 12% of 18-25 year
olds are estimated to have illicit drug or alcohol dependence.2
- 40% of 18-25 year
olds engaged in binge drinking in the past month.2
McCaffrey noted
that additional research findings show:
- Higher alcohol
prices (beer) reduce underage consumption by both infrequent and frequent
users.
- With a 10% increase
in the alcohol tax on spirits, motor vehicle deaths decrease by 7%.
A 10% increase in the tax on beer results in a 4.5% drop of college
students getting into trouble with police and a 4% drop in the rate
at which students take advantage of other students sexually.
- Increased alcohol
taxes will have a long-term effect on underage drinking, as the long-term
demand for addictive goods is more responsive to price than short-term
demand.
- Underage drinking
costs Indiana an estimated $860 million annually. Alcohol-related crashes
cost Indiana more than $1.7 billion annually.
"Indiana is
at a critical point. The legislature has the means to make a decision
that will decrease some of the social costs of alcohol consumption that
impact so heavily on the state budget," McCaffrey said.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
Resources
1. Indiana Prevention Resource Center - Alcohol, Tobacco, and other
Drug Use by Children and Adolescents, 2001
2. Indiana Prevention Resource Center - National Household Survey, 2001
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Tuesday,
February 18, 2003
Groups
to Ask General Assembly to Invest in Mental Health & Addiction Treatment
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The need to invest
in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment will be the message at a Statehouse
Rally on Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 2 PM. The Rally, coordinated
by the Mental Health America of Indiana and the Indiana Council
of Community Mental Health Centers, will get the message to state lawmakers
that for Mental Health & Addictions: Treatment Works.
The event's featured
speaker is Hoosier musician Jim Ryser, a person in recovery.
"Unfortunately,
many people still do not understand that mental illness and addictive
disorders are medical diseases that require medical treatment,"
said Stephen C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana.
He continued, "Unfortunately,
when policymakers talk about mental health and addiction treatment,
too often the focus is on short term cost, when it should be on the
long term benefits."
According to a study
commissioned by the Indiana Division of Mental Health in 2002, there
were over 14,000 persons with severe mental illness and more than 75,000
persons with addictive disorders at 200% of poverty across the state
of Indiana not receiving necessary services. Why? Because mental illness
and addiction services in Indiana were, and still are, woefully under
funded.
Access to treatment
for those suffering with addiction would be helped significantly by
an increase in the alcohol tax. A portion of the approximately $19 million
that could be raised with a 50% increase in the tax could be used for
treatment. Even with an increase, Indiana's alcohol tax rate would still
fall below the national average. Indiana's tax has not been raised since
1981.
"Without the
needed funding, many people in need with mental illness and addictive
disorders often can't obtain services because of waiting lists. They
live in shelters because no housing is available to them and they don't
have access to detoxification services," added Jim Jones, Executive
Director, of the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers.
He added that those at the greatest risk are the working poor who can't
afford treatment without assistance.
The DMH figures,
however, do not include over 2000 individuals in the Department of Corrections
system that are in need of appropriate mental health medication and
treatment. McCaffrey stated, "There are Hoosiers that currently
reside in the Indiana's correctional system as a result of their mental
illness that could be functional members of society with appropriate
treatment."
Both men agreed
that the provider community has done an excellent job "plugging
the dike" - shifting money form one program to another to take
care of true emergency cases. Both pointed out that the dam has long
held for the providers expected to take care of more people with increasingly
complex issues without the money necessary. At some point, budgets will
need to be increased to meet the service demand.
The message of the
Rally: Treatment Works is an attempt to help lawmakers understand
the crisis that the mental health and addiction community is facing.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is a statewide organization with 60 local chapters
across Indiana. An affiliate of the National Mental Health Association,
the Mental Health America of Indiana advocates for people with mental
illnesses and addictive disorders, and works to educate the public about
mental health and addictions issues in our communities. For more information,
contact the Mental Health America of Indiana at 317-638-3501.
The Indiana Council
of Community Mental Health Centers is a trade association representing
Community Mental Health Agencies who operate more than 300 service locations
in 114 cities and towns across Indiana.
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Friday,
January 31, 2003
Mental Health America of Indiana ADDS NEW PROGRAM
Contact:
Jill Vandegriff (317) 459-6638 or
Lisa Hutcheson, Project Director, (317) 638-3501, x-230
The Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. added a new program January 1, the Indiana
Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking
The Coalition, which
was formed in 1997 through a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation,
was originally a project of Terre Haute-based Chances for Indiana Youth.
The Coalition is one of 12 nationwide participating in the American
Medical Association project "Reducing Underage Drinking through
Coalitions."
Stephen C. McCaffrey,
President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana said,
"The Coalition plays an important role in educating youth and communities
about the impact of under-age drinking and alcohol-related problems.
The Mental Health America of Indiana has a long history of advocating
for treatment of alcohol addicted persons and their families. By working
together, we can provide a unique education and advocacy continuum."
According to Project
Director Lisa Hutcheson, since the Coalition's inception, the percentage
of underage drinkers in Indiana per month has dropped form 35 percent
to approximately 31 percent. Among its successful policy initiatives
are the implementation and training of law enforcement and communities
for alcohol compliance checks and keg tracking.
The Coalition also
works with institutions of higher education through ICAT, Indiana Collegiate
Advocacy Team, which addresses on-campus issues, and ICAN, the Indiana
Collegiate Action Network, which works on advocacy issues on the state
level.
The Coalition's
members include individuals and organizations that work diligently to
build awareness throughout the state with legislators, media and the
general public about the serious problem of underage drinking and the
policies that are key to reducing youth access to alcohol. For more
information about the Coalition, call 1-800-555-6424 extension 232,
or visit the Web site at www.icrud.org.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters, the largest
number in the nation, and the State organization. For more information
about the Association and its programs, call 1-800-555-6424, or visit
the Web site www.mentalhealthassociation.com.
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January
29, 2003
INDIANA
ADDICTIONS ISSUES COALITION LAUDS PRESIDENT'S
PROPOSED TREATMENT PLAN
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The Indiana Addictions
Issues Coalition today lauded President Bush's proposal for a new $600
million program to treat 300,000 Americans with addictive disorders
over the next three years.
The Director of the Indiana Addictions Issues Coalition, which is a subsidiary
of the Mental Health America of Indiana, says the state currently
spends 13 percent of its budget on the effects of substance abuse and
addiction. Increasing the state's alcohol tax would generate an additional
$19 million in revenue and allow an estimated 6,000 to 7,000 more Hoosiers
the opportunity to receive treatment. The current alcohol tax rates
were established in 1981.
"Addiction
to alcohol and drugs significantly touches the lives of over 2 million
Hoosiers alone. Our state resources for helping those individuals are
woefully under-funded and many private health insurance policies will
not cover treatment for this disease. Addiction is a treatable disease
and when treated is as equally successfully as treating diabetes or
other chronic medical conditions," said Cleveland, himself a person
in recovery.
Cleveland added,
"Initiatives focusing on creating parity between the treatment
of addiction and substance abuse and other diseases within health insurance
policies, similar to Indiana House Bill 1135, represent another example
of how help and hope can be extended to Hoosier families struggling
with the despair of addiction."
Stephen C. McCaffrey,
President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana pointed
out that Indiana State legislators have an opportunity to increase revenue
via the alcohol tax and fund additional addiction treatment while at
the same time reducing driver-impaired crashes, violent crimes and other
medical illnesses. "It's the classic pay now or pay later scenario,"
McCaffrey said. "For every $1 we spend now, we save over $7 in
future payments to hospitals, correctional facilities and unemployment
benefits among others."
McCaffrey and Cleveland
agree that as our knowledge of mental illness has increased, Hoosiers'
access to care has paradoxically shrunk. "While investments in
mental health research have expanded the medical community's abilities
to diagnose and treat mental health disorders, Indiana has not made
the needed investments to apply those research findings in our communities
where they can make a real difference," McCaffrey said.
McCaffrey added
that this new Presidential initiative augments the Administration's
earlier actions through the establishment of the Freedom Commission
on Mental Health and applauded the administration's continued interest,
attention and commitment to improving mental health services.
Mental illness
is the second leading cause of disability and premature mortality in
the United States. Untreated and mistreated mental illness costs American
business, governments and families $113 billion a year according to
2001 National Mental Health Association report.
The Indiana Addictions
Issues Coalition is a broad-based diverse organization focused on creating
and taking advantage of opportunities to project a unified voice educating,
influencing and advocating for addictions issues and improving the lives
of those affected with addictive disorders.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is the state's oldest and largest nonprofit organization
addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Association
works to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy,
education, research and service.
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January
7, 2003
Is
It A Diet Or An Eating Disorder?
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
For millions
of Americans, the New Year signaled the official kick-off of weight
loss season. News reports say one-third of adult Americans are over
weight as are one-fifth of American children. Feature stories offer
ways to lighten-up while the television infomercials entice us with
the latest gadget or potion to help fight the battle of the bulge with
minimal effort.
But the
other side of the coin is not often discussed. Few Americans understand
eating disorders and the affect on 6 to 11 million Americans, both men
and women. During the first full week of weight-loss season, the Mental Health America of Indiana wants all Hoosiers to be aware of eating
disorders and their impact on individuals and families.
What
are Eating Disorders?
Eating is controlled by many factors including appetite, food
availability, family, peer and cultural practices and attempts at
voluntary control. Dieting to a body weight leaner than needed for
health is highly promoted by current fashions trends, sales campaigns
for special foods, and in some activities and professions. Eating disorders
involve serious disturbances in eating behavior such as extreme and
unhealthy reduction of food intake or severe overeating as well as feeling
of distress or extreme concern about body shape or weight. “Eating
disorders are not due to a failure of will or behavior; rather, they
are real, treatable medical illnesses in which certain maladaptive patterns
of eating take on a life of their own,” said Stephen C. McCaffrey,
President of the Mental Health America of Indiana. The main types
of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. A third
type, binge-eating disorder, has been suggested but has not yet been
approved as a formal psychiatric diagnosis. Eating disorders frequently
co-occur with other psychiatric disorders such as depression, substance
abuse, and anxiety disorders. They frequently develop during adolescence
or early adulthood and result in a wide range of physical complications
such as heart of kidney conditions and even death.
Anorexia
Nervosa
Individuals with this disorder see themselves as overweight even though
they are dangerously thin. They are obsessed with eating and develop
unusual eating habits ranging from avoiding foods, eating only certain
foods, or observing portion control. Individuals may also repeatedly
check their body weight and engage in other techniques to control their
weight including excessive exercise or purging.
Bulimia
Nervosa
Because purging or other compensatory behavior follows the binge-eating
episodes, people with bulimia usually weigh within the normal range
for their age and height. However, like individuals with anorexia, they
may fear gaining weight, desire to lose weight, and feel intensely dissatisfied
with their bodies. People with bulimia often perform the behaviors in
secrecy, feeling disgusted and ashamed when they binge, yet relieved
once they purge.
Binge-Eating
Disorder
Individuals with binge-eating disorder experience frequent episodes
of out-of-control eating, with the same binge-eating symptoms as those
with bulimia. The main difference is that individuals with binge-eating
disorder do not purge their bodies of excess calories. Therefore, many
with the disorder are overweight for their age and height. Feelings
of shame and self-disgust associated with the illness can lead to creating
a cycle of binge eating.
Treatment
Strategies
Eating disorders can be treated and a healthy weight restored. The sooner
the disorders are diagnosed and treated, the better the outcomes are
likely to be. Because of the complexity, eating disorders require a
comprehensive treatment plan involving medical care and monitoring,
psychosocial interventions, nutritional counseling and, when appropriate,
medication management. “People with eating disorders often do not
recognize or admit that they are ill. As a result, they may strongly
resist getting and staying in treatment,” said McCaffrey. “Family
members or other trusted individuals could be helpful in ensuring that
the person with an eating disorder receives needed care and attention.
For some people, treatment may be long term,” he continued.
Resources
In addition to a primary physician, additional resources are available
to help understand these diseases. Interested individuals can contact
the local Mental Health Association Chapter; National Institute of Mental
Health at (301) 443-4513 or visit www.nimh.nih.gov;
the Harvard Eating Disorders Center at www.hedc.org;
and the National Eating Disorders Association at (206) 382-3587 or www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State organization, the largest number of chapters in the nation. For
more information about the Association and its programs, call 317-638-3501,
in the Indianapolis metropolitan area, or 1-800-555-6424, toll free.
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December
19, 2002
Mental
Health Association Ranked Top Health Charity
- Indiana’s State and Local Affiliates Contribute to Overall Ranking
-
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Several
national news, financial and philanthropic publications have recently
ranked the National Mental Health Association as a top health charity
for 2002. Newsweek magazine, Worth magazine, Forbes magazine, The Chronicle
of Philanthropy, The Nonprofit Times, Smart Money magazine (a publication
of The Wall Street Journal) and Charity Navigator (http://www.charitynavigator.com)
all agree that NMHA is a smart choice for year-end tax deductible donations.
Efficiency
In addition, the nationally prominent charity watchdog organization,
the American Institute of Philanthropy, has again awarded NMHA an A+
rating, based on the percentage of funds spent on programs and the percentage
of every $100 raised that is spent on fundraising costs. In fact, for
every dollar that comes in to NMHA, 91 cents goes to programs and services.
Indiana
Perspective
Mental Health America of Indiana president and NHMA board member
Stephen C. McCaffrey said, “Indiana’s state organization and
its local affiliates are recognized for their innovative educational
programming and community-based fund-raising efforts. These activities
bring citizens together to work toward securing the futures of those
individuals with treatable brain disorders.”
In addition,
McCaffrey noted that the Mental Health America of Indiana repeatedly receives clean, annual financial audits that are
performed by outside accounting firms. Plus MHAI is fully accredited
by CARF, a prominent national accrediting body, and consistently earns
commendations on its financial practices.
National
Perspective
The National Mental Health Association’s finances include those
of the Mental Health America of Indiana and its affiliates. Annually,
Mental Health Associations across the nation turn in financial information
to the NMHA and these finances are aggregated to determine spending
information. "The success of mental health programs depends on
the generosity of supporters," said McCaffrey. The Mental Health America of Indiana accepts contributions of cash, personal property,
stock transfers, or family bequests
Notable
items from the rankings include:
- Newsweek
magazine highlighted NMHA as one of five charitable
organizations -- and the only health charity -- worthy of donations.
- Worth
magazine endorsed NMHA as one of the charities doing the best
job of addressing national needs by listing NMHA in its list of 100
best
charities.
- Forbes
magazine ranks NMHA in the top 200 in its annual survey of the
nation's charities.
- Smart
Money magazine, a publication of The Wall Street Journal, named NMHA
third on its list of top health-related charities in the United States.
- The Chronicle
of Philanthropy puts NMHA on its "Top 400 List," which
ranks the top 400 charitable U.S. organizations based on the amount
of money they raise in donations from individuals, foundations and
corporations. NMHA is the only mental health organization - and one
of only 21 health-related organizations - in the top 400.
- The Nonprofit
Times placed NMHA on its "NPT 100" list, which ranks the nation's
largest nonprofit organizations based on the amount of funding received
from public sources (at least 10 percent of total revenue.)
- Charity
Navigator (www.charitynavigator.com) gives NMHA its
"exceptional" four-star rating on a four-star scale.
Contact
Information
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local
chapters and the State organization, the largest number of chapters
in the nation. For more information about the Association and its programs
and how to donate, call 317-638-3501, in the Indianapolis metropolitan
area, or 1-800-555-6424, toll free.
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December
10, 2002
INDIANA
FORENSICS SELECT ROUNDTABLE DEVELOPS
LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The Mental Health America of Indiana in conjunction with the
National Mental Health Association hosted “The Indiana Forensics
Select Roundtable” today to foster dialogue about people with mental
illness and addictions involved in the criminal justice system. Experts
form the Council of State Governments’ Mental Health Consensus
Project, Women in Government and the Bazelon Center for Mental Health
Law also participated.
Purpose
of Roundtable
The Mental Health Association has worked to bring together state level
corrections and mental health officials to foster dialogue. The Association
has also worked with the Indiana Commission on Mental Health, a legislative
commission, to highlight forensic issues for adults as well as juvenile
justice concerns.
According
to Stephen C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of the MentalHealth Association
in Indiana, “The Roundtable is a good first step to share knowledge
and address the issues that confront people with mental illness in the
criminal justice system.”
Why The
goal of today’s meeting is to develop legislative proposals, which,
if adopted, would spur activity in a variety of areas to improve the
response to people with mental illness and addictions who come in contact
with the criminal justice system. Communities across the state have
been slow to recognize the needs of persons with mental illness and
addictions in a criminal justice setting.
Outcomes
The attendees at today’s meeting – leaders in the addictions
and mental health fields, state and local government officials, law
enforcement, public defenders, judges as well as provider and advocacy
groups – discussed possible legislation in four areas:
- Community
Policing
- Community
Corrections
- Diversion
Programming
- Forensic
Facilities
“By
working together we can develop best practices, provide better outcomes
and reduce the cost to the state, McCaffrey said. “The results
of today’s Roundtable will serve as a blueprint for policy-makers
who would like to address the problem of building more and more prisons,
while not providing appropriate community based mental health and addictions
treatment.”
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November
15, 2002
MENTAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATION OFFERS TIPS
ON COPING WITH HOLIDAY STRESS
Contact:
Beth Karnes, (317) 638-3501 x 223 or bkarnes@mhai.net
The holidays
are a joyous occasion and a chance to come together with friends and
family. This holiday season with the threat of war abroad and the potential
danger of terrorism at home, many people will benefit from the opportunity
to connect with others. But for some individuals and families, this
time of year will be difficult whether or not they have been directly
affected by recent events.
For those
who have lost loved ones during the past year, for military families
who may be celebrating the holidays apart from family members involved
in our nation's response to terrorism, and for families who have lost
jobs because of the slow economy, the Mental Health America of Indiana
offers tips on how to get through the holiday season.
"For
those who are estranged from family and friends, this season can be
an intensely lonely and sad period, and make them feel more isolated
from those who are enjoying the season," said Stephen McCaffrey,
President of the Mental Health America of Indiana. "As we enter
this holiday season, it is important to remember that many Hoosiers
are coping with anxiety and trauma at a time that often causes additional
stress. Instead of feeling joy, many people may experience the "holiday
blues" and do not feel like celebrating," he added.
Tips
for Coping
Taking care of yourself during a stressful holiday season is one of
the best things you can do for yourself and those around you. Hoosiers
are coping with recent events in varying degrees and will react differently
to the holidays.
- Try to
set realistic goals. Keep expectations simple for yourself and others.
- Make a
budget and stick to it. Financial worries add more stress. Don't try
to keep up with everyone else. Spend what you can afford. Seek out free
activities.
- Eat healthy
foods and get plenty of exercise. Don't overeat or drink excessively
to escape stressful feelings.
- Recognize
that travel delays may occur because of increased security on public
transportation and allow extra time to reach your destination.
- Remember
that the holidays are more than one day; they are part of a whole season.
Pace yourself. Spread enjoyable activities throughout the entire season.
- Try a
new way of celebrating. Attend a celebration of another faith or community
or give the gift of your time to someone else.
- Helping
others can also help you feel better. Volunteer at a homeless shelter,
buy a present for a child in need or visit people in nursing homes.
- If you
do not have friends or family to visit with, reach out. Contact local
clubs, religious groups or community centers to see if they are holding
activities that may interest you.
- Recognize
that everyone responds to the holidays differently. Allow yourself to
feel sadness, anger or lonely feelings. Nurture yourself. Take some
time out each day to care for and celebrate yourself.
- Respect
and validate others' thoughts and feelings.
- Try to
stay in the present. Look forward to the future. Life is full of changes.
Consider what is important in your life and good about these times.
Signs
to Seek Help
Though some people may experience "holiday blues" that pass
with the season, others will have profound feelings of sadness or depression
that do not go away over time. Symptoms of depression may include:
- Persistent
sad, anxious, or empty mood
- Sleeping
too much or too little, middle-of-the night or early morning waking
- Reduced
appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain
- Loss of
interest or pleasure in activities, including sex
- Irritability
or restlessness
- Difficulty
thinking, concentrating, remembering or making decisions
- Fatigue
or loss of energy
- Thoughts
of death or suicide
- Feeling
inappropriate guilt, hopelessness or worthlessness
If
you are experiencing these symptoms over a period of several weeks, you
may be depressed. "Talking with a mental health professional or taking
a mental health screening test can help you understand how well you are
coping. Seek help in your local community by contacting your local Mental
Health Association or the Mental Health America of Indiana at (317)
638-3501 in the Indianapolis metropolitan area or (800) 555-MHAI (statewide)
to obtain a referral for services or for more information about mental
health issues," McCaffrey said. "There are several resources
available to help you and others cope."
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to
improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education,
research and service.
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November
14, 2002
PRESCRIPTION
DRUG ABUSE CAN LEAD TO ADDICTION; TREATMENT THAT WORKS IS AVAILABLE
FOR NOT NEW PROBLEM
Contact:
Beth Karnes, (317) 638-3501 x 223 or bkarnes@mhai.net
An estimated
9 million people aged 12 and older used prescription drugs for non-medical
reasons according to a 1999 study, with more than one fourth of the
respondents reporting to use prescription drugs non-medically for the
first time in the previous year, said the National Institute on Drug
Abuse.
Prescription
drug use is not a new problem but is one that deserves renewed attention.
For those who have an addiction, a trigger in their brain "turns
on" and makes the body "crave" more of what they are
addicted to.
According
to the Director of Addiction Services at the Indiana Addictions
Issues Coalition, "Addiction is a chronic disease that involves
significant changes in brain function. Treatment for addiction is as
effective as treatments for other chronic medical conditions such as
diabetes and high blood pressure." He added that over the past
20 years, medical science has made great strides in learning about the
biology of substance abuse and the nature of chemical and other addictions.
What
are some commonly abused prescription drugs?
Although many prescription drugs can be abused or misused, there are
three classes of prescription drugs that are most commonly abused:
-
Opioids,
which are most often prescribed to treat pain;
-
CNS depressants,
which are commonly used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders;
-
Stimulants,
which are prescribed to treat such things as sleep disorders, narcolepsy
and obesity.
The 1999
National Household Study on Drug Abuse showed that Americans were most
likely to abuse pain relievers, followed by sedatives and tranquilizers,
then stimulants.
Preventing
& Detecting Prescription Drug Abuse
While
most patients use medications as directed, abuse of and addiction to
prescription drugs are public health problems for many Americans. However,
addiction rarely occurs among those who use pain relievers, CNS depressants,
or stimulants as prescribed; the risk of addiction exists when these
medications are used in ways other than as prescribed. Health care providers
-- from nurse practitioner to physician to pharmacist - all play a role
in preventing and detecting prescription drug abuse.
There
are four simple questions that patients and their health care provider
can ask when assessing risk:
-
Have
you ever felt the need to cut down on your use of prescription drugs?
-
Have
you ever felt annoyed by remarks your friends and loved ones made
about your use of prescription drugs?
-
Have
you ever felt guilty or remorseful about your use of prescription
drugs?
-
Have
you ever used prescription drugs as a way to "get going"
or to "calm down?"
Treating
Prescription Drug Addiction
While no single type of treatment is appropriate for all individuals,
treatment must take into account the type of drug used and the needs of
the individual. To be successful, treatment may need to incorporate several
components in either a behavioral or pharmaceutical format. Counseling
in conjunction with a prescribed medication or multiple courses of treatment
may be needed for the patient to make a full recovery.
The Indiana
Addictions Issues Coalition is a subsidiary corporation of the Mental Health America of Indiana and is a statewide broad based coalition
composed of people working together to improve the lives of those affected
by addictive disorders.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to
improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education,
research and service.
For more
information about addictive disorders, call 638-3501 or if outside the
Indianapolis area, 1-800-555-6424.
Additional
Resources:
National Institutes of Drug Abuse websites: www.drugabuse.gov
or www.nida.nih.gov
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November
8, 2002
ELDER
ABUSE BECOMES GROWING CONCERN IN
AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
According
to a report from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
Administration on Aging, each year hundreds of thousands of older persons
are abused, neglected and exploited by family members and others. Many
victims of this abuse are frail, vulnerable, and depend on others to
meet their most basic human needs.
Currently,
state laws define elder abuse, and state definitions vary considerably
from one jurisdiction to another in terms of what constitutes mistreatment
of the elderly. Generally accepted definitions include:
- the
willful infliction of physical pain or injury,
- infliction
of non-consensual contact of any kind,
- the
infliction of mental or emotional anguish,
- the
improper act of using the resources of an older person, without their
consent, for someone else's benefit,
- the
failure of a caretaker to provide goods or services necessary to avoid
physical harm, mental anguish or mental illness.
According
to the first-of-its-kind study, the National Elder Abuse Incidence Study,
our oldest elders (80 years and older) are abuse and neglected at two
to three times their proportion of the elderly population - with female
elders abused at a higher rate than males.
While the
study indicates that White elders are victims of abuse more often than
other racial or ethnic groups (eight out of ten times for most types
of maltreatment), the incidence of abuse among elderly African Americans
is a growing concern. Blacks are over-represented in nearly all types
of maltreatment relative to their proportion of the elderly population.
More specifically:
- emotional/psychological
abuse was the second most frequent type of maltreatment at 35.5 percent
(14.1 percent over-represented),
- physical
abuse was the third most frequent type of maltreatment with 25.6 of
victims,
- financial
exploitation was the fourth most frequent type of maltreatment with
30.2 percent (15.4 percent over-represented),
- abandonment
accounted for 57.3 percent of this type of abuse in the African-American
community with 8.3 percent over-represented).
Stephen
C. McCaffrey, President & CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana, said, "As more individuals from diverse cultures seek
mental health care, community providers must adapt to meet their unique
needs. Culturally appropriate mental health treatment requires openness
to the expectations, perceptions, and realities of individuals from
diverse cultures and communities. Failure to integrate an individual's
culturally related beliefs and concerns into the treatment process leads
to an inability to understand or resolve significant clinical issues."
McCaffrey
backed up his statement with Census Bureau data, which show one of four
Americans is a person of color (nonwhite or Latino) and estimates that
the figure could change to one of two Americans by 2050. McCaffrey added,
"It is time for America's mental health system to go beyond rhetoric
and understand that 'consumer oriented' necessarily means 'culturally
appropriate.'"
More information
of the study can be reviewed at http://www.aoa.dhhs.gov/abuse/report/default.htm.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to
improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education,
research and service.
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October
12, 2002
How
15 Minutes or More Each Day Can Foster Better Communications With Your
Child
For More
Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Aiming
to promote healthy child development and combat youth violence by encouraging
parents to spend time talking with their children on a daily basis,
the Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. (MHAI), announced the
launch of 15+, a national communications campaign developed by the Center
for Mental Health Services.
The program
kicks off Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 6 -12) and specifically
World Mental Health Day (October 10). The theme for the eleventh observance
of World Mental Health Day is "The Effects of Trauma and Violence
on Children."
The campaign
name, 15+, is derived from research findings that revealed spending
15 minutes or more of quality time with a child each day can have a
positive impact on the child's mental and emotional growth and self-confidence.
According
to Brenda Hamilton, director of child and family services for the Indiana
Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health, a subsidiary of
MHAI, 15+ provides practical guidance to parents and caregivers about
how to effectively communicate with their children.
"There
are three core messages to 15+. Among them are to nurture your child
by showing love and concern, communicate by both listening and talking,
and to show respect for thoughts and feelings," said Hamilton.
"Starting a conversation with a child begins when we listen to
them about what's important in their lives. Parents who talk with their
children about what is happening in their lives are better able to guide
their children toward more positive, skill-enhancing activities and
friendships."
The long-term
results can impact a child's educational progress as well as decisions
regarding friendships, relationships, and other life activities. Good
communication skills can be a key step in preventing violence and substance
abuse.
Community
organizations that are interested in learning more about the campaign
or establishing a community focus group should contact Hamilton at (317)638-3501
x228 or (800)555-MHAI.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to
improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education,
research and service
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October
4, 2002
NMHA
and the Jed Foundation Release Findings of Expert Panel; MHAI Has State
Expertise in Junior Mental Health Association
For More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff (317) 459-6638
From
developing screening programs to providing off-campus referrals and
emergency services, a report released by the National Mental Health
Association and The Jed Foundation suggests college administrators must
take action now to safeguard students against suicide.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college-age students,
with an estimated 1,088 occurring on campuses each year. M.I.T. and
other universities have contended with lawsuits related to on-campus
suicides and the services these institutions provide to students at
risk.
In 2001, the Surgeon General released the first national suicide prevention
strategy. As a follow up, NMHA and The Jed Foundation convened a panel
of leading experts, Expanding the Safety Net: A Roundtable on Vulnerability,
Depressive Symptoms and Suicidal Behavior. The report based on this
roundtable was recently sent to more than 3,000 universities, and provides
checklists and action plans to help administrators assess their campuses'
mental health needs in an effort to open a dialogue between universities,
communities and mental health experts about this important issue.
Report highlights
- Evaluation
of the current research
- Overview
of at-risk students
- Description
of services necessary to address suicidal behaviors on
campuses
- Checklist
for administrators to evaluate current programs and identify
their campus's needs
- A call
to action for administrators, campus communities and parents and families
In Indiana
The Mental Health Association of Indiana is the first state in the nation
to establish a Junior Mental Health Association. According to youth
coordinator Jenny Dorrell, "The idea for the JMHA originated in
1963 in Evansville and expanded Statewide in 1996." In her position
with the JMHA, Dorrell implements a network of youth support groups
(JMHA) throughout the state. Eight JMHAI groups have already been established
and two pilot groups are underway, in Hamilton and Hancock counties.
"The envisioned goals of the JMHA are consistent with the Report
and include improving members self-esteem through community involvement,
optimization of communication and leadership skills, as well as the
establishment of mentoring relationships," Dorrell added.
For More Information
For copies of "Safeguarding Your Students against Suicide,"
visit www.nmha.org
or www.jedfoundation.org.
Funding for this project was made possible with unrestricted educational
grants from Forest Laboratories and Wyeth.
The National Mental Health Association is the country's
oldest and largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of
mental health and mental illness. The NMHA works to improve the mental
health of all Americans through advocacy, education, research and service.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters
and the State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works
to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers.
For more
information, visit www.mentalhealthassociation.org.
The Jed
Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention
of suicide among college students, the improvement of mental health
support available on campuses and the strengthening of the safety net
for young adults at risk for suicide. For more information, visit www.jedfoundation.org
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September
11, 2002
GOLF
OUTING TO BENEFIT INDIANA MENTAL HEALTH MEMORIAL FOUNDATION
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Tee It Up For Mental Health, the golf outing to raise funds for the
Indiana Mental Health Memorial Foundation, will take place Friday, September
20 at the Legends of Indiana in Franklin, Indiana.
Sponsored
by the Mental Health America of Indiana and the Indiana Council
of Community Mental Health Centers, the event proceeds will fund services
and programs affecting the filed of mental health.
Play will
take place on the 27-hole Jim Fazio-designed course. Registration begins
at 11 a.m., followed by lunch and a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Awards
and refreshments will follow the round. Prizes will be awarded to the
top three finishing teams, the last place finisher, and players with
the longest drive and closest to the pin on select holes.
Corporate
sponsorships are available from $500 to $5000 dollars. Individual players
are welcome and the fee is $125. For information or registration, please
call the Mental Health America of Indiana at (317) 638-3501 or (800)
555-MHAI.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to
improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education,
research and service.
The Indiana
Council of Community Mental Health Centers is a trade association representing
Community Mental Health Agencies who operate more than 300 service locations
in 114 cities and towns across Indiana.
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September
5, 2002
INDIANA
SPORTS GRIDIRON HONORS CELEBRITIES,
FORMER LEGISLATOR
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
The Indiana
Sports Gridiron, the largest fundraiser for the Mental Health America of Indiana, honored sports celebrities during the annual event Wednesday
evening in Indianapolis.
Host Mark Patrick traded barbs with Indiana Speed cornerback Dana Ramey,
the Indiana Firebird's "Touchdown" Eddie Brown, and the voice
of the IRL, Bob Jenkins, who was also celebrating his birthday.
During the evening's festivities the Mental Health Association honored
former State Representative Susan Crosby with the Lifetime Legislator
Award for her contributions to people with mental illness. Before her
tenure in the Indiana General Assembly, Crosby was a staff member of
the Mental Health America of Indiana and served as the Director
of one its subsidiaries, APS Industries.
Eli Lilly & Co. also created a scholarship fund within the Indiana
Mental Health Memorial Foundation in Representative Crosby's name. The
scholarship program will enable students with mental illness the opportunity
to attend an institution of higher learning and receive a degree.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters
and the State Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works
to improve the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education,
research and service.
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June
17, 2002
ADDICTIONS
ISSUES COALITION DIRECTOR NAMED AT
STATE MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION
- Will Maintain Dual Role as General Counsel -
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
Scott E. Cleveland, J.D. has joined the Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. as Director of the Indiana Addictions Issues Coalition
and General Counsel.
Cleveland
earned his law degree from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1990
and was admitted to the Indiana Bar that same year. Throughout his legal
career he has represented clients in both criminal and civil matters.
Additionally, Cleveland, who is in recovery, has had the opportunity
to listen to, counsel and provide practical help and advocacy for numerous
individuals effected by addictions and related issues.
Cleveland
has also served as a public defender in the State's largest Juvenile
Court, sat as a pro-tempore judge, and represented municipalities
and not-for-profit entities.
Active
in numerous community activities, Cleveland serves as a volunteer for
Indiana Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program and as a praise/worship
team leader at Light & Life FMC.
Cleveland,
his wife, and two daughters reside in Western Hendricks County.
The Indiana
Addictions Issues Coalition is a broad-based organization focused on
creating and taking advantage of opportunities to project a unified
voice educating, influencing and advocating for addictions issues. The
Coalition is composed of diverse individuals, agencies and organizations
interested in and concerned about all addictions issues. For more information
about the Coalition, please call (800) 555-6424
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State
Association, making it the largest in the nation. It works to improve
the mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service. For more information about the Indiana Association and
its programs, call (800) 555-6424.
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May
31, 2002
TRAUMA
RESEARCHER: SEPTEMBER 11 TRAGEDY
REVEALS MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT MIXED
For
More Information Contact:
Jill Vandegriff, (317) 459-6638
A noted
trauma expert said today that available data do not clearly measure
the mental health impact of the September 11 attacks.
According
to Brad Schmidt, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at The
Ohio State University, there has been an increased and exaggerated threat
that has enhanced the public's vulnerability. "This enhancement
has predisposed our country to a state of heightened anxiety and it
will last for many years," Schmidt said.
Schmidt
recently co-authored an article entitled "Fear Not" which
appeared in the January/February 2002 issue of Psychology Today.
Schmidt
also noted that research conducted on the public seeking mental health
treatment is mixed. The trend following the attacks showed an increase
in treatment services but recent data show that treatment is returning
to near pre-attack levels.
Speaking
before an audience of 275 individuals at the Fifth Annual Mental Health
Symposium, "Mental Health in Troubled Times" sponsored by
the Mental Health America of Indiana, there are positive results
emerging from the tragedy. "We have seen an increased awareness
of mental health issues and a destigmatization of mental illness as
services have been utilized. The public can anticipate that there will
be an increase in federal funding of mental health research, especially
in the area of trauma," Schmidt said. Schmidt said this is because
there is not significant research available on how trauma is treated.
Stephen
C. McCaffrey, President of the Mental Health America of Indiana,
Inc., said, "Even though eight months have passed since our country
experienced this tragedy, the psychological effects linger. We will
continue to feel the impact of it for decades."
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State Association, the largest in the nation. It works to improve the
mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service. For more information about the Indiana association and
its programs, call (800) 555-6424.
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May
17, 2002
ANXIETY
DISORDER AFFECTS CHILDREN & ADULTS
For
More Information Contact:
Beth Karnes, (317) 638-3501 x 223 or
Jill Vandegriff (317) 459-6638
What mental
health problem can affect people of all ages, including children? Anxiety
disorders are the most common type of mental health disorder in children,
affecting as many as 10 percent of young people. Similarly, about 4
million adults have an anxiety disorder during a year's time.
During
one of America's most recognized health observances, Mental Health Month,
the Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc., and its 60 local chapters
will be working with other groups to increase awareness and understanding
of mental illness.
Know
the Facts
Anxiety
strikes people in childhood and adolescence but can also begin in adulthood.
Anxiety affects women more often than men. Research suggests that anxiety
may run in families. In addition, anxiety often exists with depression.
"Anxiety
disorders are more than just nerves. They are characterized by feelings
of fear, panic and discomfort that arise with no clear cause, in situations
that are not usually stressful or dangerous," said Stephen C. McCaffrey,
President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana.
All children
experience some anxiety, this normal and expected. For example, when
left alone at preschool for the first time, many children will show
distress; a young child with his or her own room may develop a fear
of the dark. McCaffrey says anxiety becomes a problem when it interrupts
a child's normal activities like attending school and making friends.
Anxiety
Disorders Most Common In Children
Generalized
Anxiety Disorder affects children when the child has recurring fears
and worries that they find difficult to control. They worry about everything
from school to sports and may be restless, irritable, tense or tired
with trouble sleeping or concentrating.
Children
with Separation Anxiety Disorder have intense anxiety about being away
from home or caregivers to the point that social or school functioning
is affected. When they are apart, the child may worry about the parents;
when they are together, the child may "cling" to the parents.
Nightmares and physical symptoms such as stomachaches and headaches
are common.
Social
Phobia usually emerges in the mid-teens, and typically does not affect
young children. Those affected with this disorder have a constant fear
of social or performance situations and are continuously afraid of being
embarrassed in these situations. Fear, coupled with physical symptoms
like sweating, blushing, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath
are hallmarks of the disorder. McCaffrey notes that typically, adolescents
cope by avoiding the feared situations like dating, but may show confidence
in school and work situations.
Other anxiety
disorders that may be present in children and adolescents include obsessive-compulsive
disorder and post-traumatic stress syndrome. Adults, like children,
experience Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder,
Social Phobias, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Adults may also
experience Panic Disorder.
Help
is Available
"Anxiety
disorders are treatable," McCaffrey said. "When early identification,
diagnosis and treatment occur, children and families can reach their
full potential. A comprehensive treatment plan, developed in collaboration
by the child (when possible), parents, and mental health professional,
may include psychotherapy, behavioral therapy and/or medication."
For
More Information
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State organization, the largest in the nation. It works to improve the
mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service. For more information about the Indiana association and
its programs, call (800) 555-6424.
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April
26, 2002
MENTAL
HEALTH SYMPOSIUM TO FOCUS on 9/11 AFTERMATH
For
More Information Contact:
Beth Karnes 317-638-3501 x-223 or
Jill Vandegriff 317-459-6638
Mental
Health in Troubled Times: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow is the theme
for the fifth annual Mental Health Symposium presented by the Mental Health America of Indiana and the Indiana University School of Medicine
Department of Psychiatry. The Symposium will be held on Friday, May
31st at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Union Station, in downtown Indianapolis.
During
the luncheon, the Mental Health America of Indiana will hold its
annual meeting. People all too familiar with the aftereffects of the
9/11 tragedy will make special presentations. Brad Schmidt, PhD.,
will be the keynote speaker. Dr. Schmidt is a noted trauma expert and
was co-author of the article, "Fear Not," in the January-February
2002 issue in Psychology Today.
Prior to
Dr. Schmidt's presentation, Lawrence Fire Department Battalion Chief
Brian Mulhern will share his experience going to Ground Zero in
the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. Mr. Mulhern is a member
of the Indiana Task Force One and this task force went to New York
to participate in the search and rescue efforts.
According
to Stephen C. McCaffrey, "Even though eight months will have passed
since the 9/11 tragedy, the psychological effects remain for many individuals
and society as a whole. This impact on the mental health of our country
will linger for decades to come."
The symposium
is the only one of its kind in the nation as it brings together people
in recovery, family members, caregivers, advocates, researchers and
providers. In this unique setting, attendees come
together to discuss the latest advances in psychiatric research and
treatment. Participants will learn how research is positively affecting
treatment for individuals with mental illness and addictive disorders.
Full registration
for the conference is $95 and can be made by calling the Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc. at (317) 6398-3501 or (800) 555-6424. Scholarships
are available and information is available from the Mental Health Association.
In addition, exhibition space is available and information on booth
size and rental fees is available by calling the Mental Health America of Indiana.
Sponsors
of the symposium include Eli Lilly & Co., The Saturday Evening Post,
Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry, The
Institute of Psychiatric Research, Governor's Planning Council for People
with Disabilities, and Indiana Protection and Advocacy Services.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State organization, the largest in the nation. It works to improve the
mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service. For more information about the Indiana association and
its programs, call (800) 555-6424.
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April
26, 2002
MENTAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATION OFFERS TIPS TO
RECOGNIZE CHILD & ADOLESCENT DEPRESSION
Focus on Children as Part of National Mental Health Month in May
For
More Information Contact:
Beth Karnes 317-638-3501 x-223 or
Jill Vandegriff 317-459-6638
"What's
the matter?" asks the parent.
"Nothing,"
replies the child with a shrug of the shoulder.
All children
"feel blue" from time to time, have a bad day, or are sad.
However, when these kinds of feelings persist and begin to interfere
with a child's ability to function in daily life, clinical depression
could be the cause. Depression is not a personal weakness, a character
flaw or a mood that one can simply "snap out of." And it's
different from feelings of grief or sorrow that follow a major loss,
such as a death in the family. It is a serious mental health problem
that affects people of all ages, including children. In fact, depression
affects as one in every 33 children - and one in eight adolescents,
according to the Federal Center for Mental Health Services. Fortunately
depression is treatable.
During
one of America's most recognized health observances, Mental Health Month,
the Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc., and its 60 local chapters
will be working with other groups to increase awareness and understanding
of mental illness.
According
to Stephen C. McCaffrey, President and CEO of the Mental Health America of Indiana, "It's easy for parents to identify children's physical
needs - nutritious foods, warm clothes, adequate shelter and sleep --
but a child's emotional needs may be less obvious.
Signs
of Depression
There are
a variety of signs of depression. In children, parents should be mindful
of any of the following symptoms lasting for two weeks before seeking
medical advice. Among the signs that may trigger a parent to seek treatment
for a child are: persistent sadness; withdrawal from family and friends;
loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed; changes in eating
and sleeping habits; frequent physical complaints; lack of enthusiasm;
decreased energy level; play that involves excessive aggression toward
self or others; indecision, lack of concentration or forgetfulness;
feelings of worthlessness; and or recurring thoughts of death or suicide.
What Parents Can Do
McCaffrey
says that parents should talk to their children about how they are feeling.
If any of the signs of depression show up in their child's behavior
and the child struggles with any combination of the symptoms for more
than two weeks, "seek medical treatment," McCaffrey urges.
When parents have their child evaluated, it is important to ask questions
about treatments and services. "A comprehensive treatment plan
may include psychotherapy, ongoing evaluation and in some cases, medication.
Parents and the child, whenever possible, should both be involved in
the treatment plan," he said.
Basics
of Good Mental Health
Here are
some basics for a child's good mental health. Parents should offer love
and encouragement; safe and secure surroundings; an opportunity to develop
talents and abilities; play time with other children; appropriate guidance
and discipline; and professional help, when needed.
The Mental Health America of Indiana is composed of 60 local chapters and the
State organization, the largest in the nation. It works to improve the
mental health of all Hoosiers through advocacy, education, research
and service. For more information about the Indiana association and
its programs, call (800) 555-6424.
Return
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Helping
Children Handle Disaster-Related Anxiety
Statement from the Mental Health America of Indiana
Please
see the attachment for information regarding "Helping Children
Handle Disaster-Related Anxiety". During this time of crisis, children
need help understanding what has happened. With the constant media coverage,
children are hearing horrific details of the disaster in New York and
Washington, DC The Mental Health Association at the national, state
and local level, wants to get information out about how we can help
our children as much as possible - this event will have a lasting impact
on the children.
Mental Health America of Indiana
Helping Children Handle Disaster-Related Anxiety
Contact: Beth Karnes, (317) 638-3501 x 223 or bkarnes@mhai.net
Children
sense the anxiety and tension in adults around them. And, like adults,
children experience the same feelings of helplessness and lack of control
that disaster-related stress can bring about. Unlike adults, however,
children have little experience to help them place their current situation
into perspective. Each child responds differently to disasters, depending
on his or her understanding and maturity, but it's easy to see how an
event like this can create a great deal of anxiety in children of a
ll ages because they will interpret the disaster as a personal danger
to themselves and those they care about. Whatever the child's age or
relationship to the damage caused by disaster, it's important that you
be open about the consequences for your family, and that you encourage
him or her to talk about it.
Quick
Tips for Parents
- Children
need comforting and frequent reassurance that they're safe make sure
they get it.
- Be honest
and open about the disaster. Encourage children to express their feelings
through talking, drawing or playing.
- Try to
maintain your daily routines as much as possible.
- For more
information call the Mental Health America of Indiana 1-800-555-MHAI
(6424) or 638-3501
Preschool Age Children
Behavior
such as bedwetting, thumb sucking, baby talk, or a fear of sleeping
alone may intensify in some younger children, or reappear in children
who had previously outgrown them. They may complain of very real stomach
cramps or headaches, and be reluctant to go to school. It's important
to remember that these children are not "being bad" --they're
afraid. Here are some suggestions to help them cope with their fears.
- Reassure
young children that they're safe. Provide extra comfort and contact
by discussing the child's fears at night, by telephoning during the
day and with extra physical comforting.
- Get a
better understanding of a child's feelings about the disaster. Discuss
the disaster with them and find out each child's particular fears and
concerns. Answer all questions they may ask and provide them loving
comfort and care. You can work to structure children's play so that
it remains constructive, serving as an outlet for them to express fear
or anger.
Grade-School
Age Children.
Children
this age may ask many questions about the disaster, and it's important
that you try to answer them in clear and simple language.
If a child
is concerned about a parent who is distressed, don't tell a child not
to worry--doing so will just make him or her worry more.
Here are several important things to remember with school-age children:
False reassurance does not help this age group. Don't say disasters
will never affect your family again; children will know this isn't true.
Instead, say "You're safe now and I'll always try to protect you,--
or--Adults are working very hard to make things safe." Remind children
that disasters are very rare. Children's fears often get worse around
bedtime, so you might want to stick around until the child falls asleep
in order to make him or her feel protected.
Monitor
children's media viewing. Images of the disaster and the damage are
extremely frightening to children, so consider limiting the amount of
media coverage they see. A good way to do this without calling attention
to your own concern is to regularly schedule an activity--story reading,
drawing, movies, or letter writing, for example--during news shows.
Allow
them to express themselves through play or drawing. As with younger
children, school-age children sometimes find comfort in expressing themselves
through playing games or drawing scenes of the disaster. Allowing them
to do so, and then talking about it, gives you the chance to "re-tell"
the ending of the game or the story they have expressed in pictures
with an emphasis on personal safety.
Don't be afraid to say "I don't know." Part of keeping discussion
of the disaster open and honest is not being afraid to say you don't
know how to answer a child's question. When such an occasion arises,
explain to your child that disasters are extremely rare, and they cause
feelings that even adults have trouble dealing with. Temper this by
explaining that, even so, adults will always work very hard to keep
children safe and secure.
Adolescents
encourage these youth to work out their concerns about the disaster.
Adolescents may try to downplay their worries. It is generally a good
idea to talk about these issues, keeping the lines of communication
open and remaining honest about the financial, physical and emotional
impact of the disaster on your family. When adolescents are frightened,
they may express their fear through acting out or regressing to younger
habits.
- Children
with existing emotional problems such as depression may require careful
supervision and additional support.
- Monitor
their media exposure to the event and information they receive on the
Internet.
- Adolescents
may turn to their friends for support. Encourage friends and families
to get together and discuss the event to allay fears.
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