The VOICETraumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook by Glenn R. Schiraldi, Ph.D. can help with treatment...
4
The VOICE Become a Member Call us for a membership form at 433-3780 or submit online at www.mhanc.com. Inside this issue: Feature: From the Desk of the Execu- tive Director 1 From the MHA Li- brary 2 Program Updates: Compeer Compeer for Adults Compeer for Youth Consumer Activities In-Home Respite Community Educa- tion & Referral 3 3 4 4 5 5 MHA at the North Tonawanda Library 6 Support Groups: Complete Listing 7 Winter 2016 Hello, Yippee!! We got through almost half the winter with very little snow. I could take this kind of winter every year! Many of you know that I just returned to the office after having foot surgery and being out of the office for 8 weeks. This might not sound like a long time but when it’s your right foot and you can’t drive, believe me, it feels more like 8 years! I tried driving; I went out to the car, started it up and headed towards the road but guess what? I couldn’t feel the brake or gas pedals from under my cast! So that didn’t work! Then I tried driving with my left foot but that didn’t work either. Because I live so far out, I didn’t want to call on anyone to drive me around so I only left the house 6 times during that entire 8 week peri- od. I can now honestly say that I know what isolation feels like and I understand how it can affect your mental health. Thankfully, my husband and a few good friends kept me busy for the most part and I am now an experienced card player and a proud board game winner! Just as a reminder, there are a lot of treatments and services available to help those diagnosed with mental illnesses, as well as their families and loved ones. Finding the right help can be difficult and overwhelming. That’s why places like the MHA are here to help. If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties and you suspect that mental illness might be part of the problem, please don’t hesitate to stop in or call the office. We’ll be more than happy to help you find the right programs, resources, and treatments for your individual needs. We also have many peer-led support groups available that are free of charge. The facilitators of these support groups have experience dealing with the difficulties associated with men- tal illnesses and may have experienced situations similar to what you’re going through. Our peer-led support groups can support you through the difficult times and celebrate with you during the good times, too. Help stop the stigma of mental illness by sharing your story and by helping to educate those around you. Here’s to you! From the Desk of the Executive Director Cheryl Blacklock Cheryl Brought to you by the Mental Health Association in Niagara County, Inc. 36 Pine Street | Lockport, NY 14094 | (716) 433-3780 | www.mhanc.com [email protected] Ext. 302 36 Pine Street Lockport NY 14094 Phone: 716-433-3780 Fax: 716-433-3847 www.mhanc.com NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S.POSTAGE PAID Lockport, NY 14094 Permit NO. 453 Information and Referral Specialists Mission Statement The Mental Health Association in Niagara County, Inc. will offer programs and services aimed at promoting mental health while advocating for individuals with mental illness- es and working toward dispelling commonly held misunder- standings regarding mental illnesses. The Mental Health Association in Niagara County, Inc. is funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health, the Niagara County Department of Mental Health, the United Way of Greater Niagara, the United Way of the To- nawandas, grants, memberships and voluntary contribu- tions. Executive Board Executive Director: Cheryl Blacklock Board President: Rebecca Wydysh Vice President: Stacy Passino Secretary: Crystal Walker Treasurer: Emily Shield Board Members Chris Aiken Rhonda Bivins Joseph Claypoole Lawrence Eggert Jodie Hodge John Emborsky Mark Sanders Dr. David Skiba Chris Roche Landmark legislation was passed in 2015 making New York the first State in the country to include Mental Health Public Awareness as a voluntary contribution on its State Income Tax Forms. Monies raised from this tax check off will benefit millions of New Yorkers who must fight the stigma of mental illness. Whether you fill out your income tax electronically or by paper, please consider contributing to this worthy cause. Over the years millions of dollars have been raised for several wor- thy causes in New York’s charitable check offs. It is our turn now to use the check off to add funding. Send a message that we as New Yorkers will not accept the stigma and discrimination of people with mental illness. Check Off on Your NYS TAXES Original message from NYAPRS
Transcript of The VOICETraumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook by Glenn R. Schiraldi, Ph.D. can help with treatment...
The VOICE
Become a Member
Call us for a membership form at
433-3780 or submit online at
wwwmhanccom
Inside this issue
Feature From the
Desk of the Execu-
tive Director
1
From the MHA Li-
brary
2
Program Updates
Compeer
Compeer for Adults
Compeer for Youth
Consumer Activities
In-Home Respite
Community Educa-
tion amp Referral
3
3
4
4
5
5
MHA at the North
Tonawanda Library
6
Support Groups
Complete Listing
7
Winter 2016
Hello
Yippee We got through almost half the winter with very little snow I could take
this kind of winter every year
Many of you know that I just returned to the office after having foot surgery and
being out of the office for 8 weeks This might not sound like a long time but when itrsquos your
right foot and you canrsquot drive believe me it feels more like 8 years I tried driving I went
out to the car started it up and headed towards the road but guess what I couldnrsquot feel
the brake or gas pedals from under my cast So that didnrsquot work Then I tried driving with
my left foot but that didnrsquot work either Because I live so far out I didnrsquot want to call on
anyone to drive me around so I only left the house 6 times during that entire 8 week peri-
od I can now honestly say that I know what isolation feels like and I understand how it can
affect your mental health Thankfully my husband and a few good friends kept me busy
for the most part and I am now an experienced card player and a proud board game
winner
Just as a reminder there are a lot of treatments and services available to help
those diagnosed with mental illnesses as well as their families and loved ones Finding the
right help can be difficult and overwhelming Thatrsquos why places like the MHA are here to
help If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties and you suspect that mental
illness might be part of the problem please donrsquot hesitate to stop in or call the office
Wersquoll be more than happy to help you find the right programs resources and treatments
for your individual needs We also have many peer-led support groups available that are
free of charge The facilitators of these support groups have
experience dealing with the difficulties associated with men-
tal illnesses and may have experienced situations similar to
what yoursquore going through Our peer-led support groups
can support you through the difficult times and celebrate
with you during the good times too
Help stop the stigma of mental illness by sharing your
story and by helping to educate those around you
Herersquos to you
From the Desk of the
Executive Director
Cheryl Blacklock
Cheryl
Brought to you by the Mental Health Association in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine Street | Lockport NY 14094 | (716) 433-3780 | wwwmhanccom
cablacklockmhanccom
Ext 302
36 Pine Street Lockport NY 14094 Phone 716-433-3780 Fax 716-433-3847
wwwmhanccom
NON-PROFIT ORG
USPOSTAGE
PAID
Lockport NY 14094
Permit NO 453
Information and Referral Specialists
Mission Statement
The Mental Health Association in Niagara County Inc will
offer programs and services aimed at promoting mental
health while advocating for individuals with mental illness-
es and working toward dispelling commonly held misunder-
standings regarding mental illnesses
The Mental Health Association in Niagara County Inc is
funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health the
Niagara County Department of Mental Health the United
Way of Greater Niagara the United Way of the To-
nawandas grants memberships and voluntary contribu-
tions
Executive Board
Executive Director Cheryl Blacklock
Board President Rebecca Wydysh
Vice President Stacy Passino
Secretary Crystal Walker
Treasurer Emily Shield
Board Members
Chris Aiken
Rhonda Bivins
Joseph Claypoole
Lawrence Eggert
Jodie Hodge
John Emborsky
Mark Sanders
Dr David Skiba
Chris Roche
Landmark legislation was passed in 2015 making New York the first
State in the country to include Mental Health Public Awareness as a
voluntary contribution on its State Income Tax Forms Monies raised
from this tax check off will benefit millions of New Yorkers who must
fight the stigma of mental illness Whether you fill out your income
tax electronically or by paper please consider contributing to
this worthy cause
Over the years millions of dollars have been raised for several wor-
thy causes in New Yorkrsquos charitable check offs It is our turn now to
use the check off to add funding
Send a message that we as New Yorkers will not accept
the stigma and discrimination of people with mental
illness
Check Off on Your NYS TAXES
Original message from NYAPRS
The VOICE Page 2
Wersquove all heard references to PTSD ndash in articles TV shows movies ndash but do we understand it The Post-
Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook by Glenn R Schiraldi PhD can help with treatment suggestions and ex-
planations to increase our knowledge of a disorder that affects not only military veterans but anyone who has
experienced an overwhelming event
The book is subtitled ldquoa guide to healing recovery and growthrdquo and certainly that would be the goal of any-
one afflicted with PTSD We find explanations of breathing techniques physical exercise and thought process-
es that might help someone control the reactions that make day to day life difficult Of course the book is no
substitute for the guidance of a medical professional but there are helpful suggestions and ideas to explore that
can be brought to counseling sessions including lsquoforgiveness imageryrsquo used to diffuse anger and help healing
Finding constructive ways to express feelings can help to relieve pain from the past and help wounds to heal
This book can be a useful tool to support moving forward in life
Mental Health Association Page 7 Winter 2016 Call us at 716-433-3780
Anxiety Depression Support Group
for Adults
Meets at MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine Street
Lockport NY 14094
When Every Thursday
230-430 pm
Alzheimerrsquos Support Group (for caregivers)
Meets at MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine St
Lockport NY 14094
When 1st amp 3rd Thursday of each month
100ndash 300 pm
Grief Share Support Group (meets at two locations)
Meets at
MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine Street
Lockport NY 14094
When
2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month
600-730 pm
Meets at
Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center ndashMain Floor
621 10th St
Niagara Falls NY 14301
When
1st and 3rd Monday of each month
600-730 pm
Art for Relaxation
Art classes offered free of charge All materials pro-vided Work at your own pace on a project of your
choice
Meets at Urban Park Towers
77 Main St
Lockport NY 14094
When Every Wednesday
1200ndash 300 pm
Letrsquos Talk mdash support for teens
The ldquoLetrsquos Talkrdquo Discussion Group for young people 19 and
under is a place where you can talk about whatrsquos going on
in your life find out how to deal with stress and learn to
feel good about being you Confidential safe environment
Meets at
MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine Street
Lockport NY 14094
When
1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month
600-730 pm
Donrsquot see what you need
Call us and we will help you find the perfect support
group for you
Please call (716) 433-3780 to confirm dates times and locations for support groups sponsored by the MHA before attending any group Information regarding support groups not sponsored by the MHA may also be available
Peer Led Support Groups Sponsored by the MHA in Niagara County Inc
NEW
ldquoGetting Your Game Back Onrdquo (a mental
wellness support group for young adults ages
17-25)
Meets at MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine St
Lockport NY 14094
When 3rd Monday of every month
600ndash 730 pm
New Support Group
MHA will be sponsoring a new support group called
ldquoGetting Your Game Back Onrdquo for young adults from ages 17 to 25
This is a peer-led support group focused on mental wellness and peer support for
the ups and downs that come with the daily life of a young adult
Meetings will be held on the 3rd Monday
of each month from 600 to 730 pm at the Mental Health Association in Niag-
ara County Inc 36 Pine St Lockport
For a complete
listing of all the
support groups
the MHA offers
see page 7
From the MHA Library
by Jackie Kenney
Page 3 Winter 2016
Linda Stevens Director lstevensmhanccom
Ext 307
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer for Adults
Check out what lsquoCompeer for Adultsrsquo has been up to
Call us at 716-433-3780
As always October is when Compeer participants volunteers and staff get together for what wersquove named our ldquoHarvest Banquetrdquo We have a Thanksgiving type feast turkey and all the trimmings and give thanks
for our blessings-giving each other support and friendship throughout the year
In November Compeer had a craft evening in Wheatfield and made seasonal treats involving marshmal-
lows hot chocolate and candy canes as well as decorations suitable for hanging on Christmas trees
What better to do but have an early December Holiday party this year in Niagara Falls We always hope by having it early the December weather will be good to us This year it was Lots of Happy Holiday
wishes were shared by all
Usually in January Compeer takes the time to plan activities for the new year so we have out first get-together of the year in February This February wersquoll have a movie night in Niagara Falls and in March
wersquoll share dinner and shopping at Gordie Harperrsquos in Newfane
Compeer is always in need of volunteers who have just a few hours of time each month to give to someone who needs supportive friendship The inter-view screening and training are all taken care of by our Compeer staff All
you need to do is make that phone call wersquoll walk you through the rest
Call Compeer at 433-3780
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer
Linda Stevens Director lstevensmhanccom
Ext 307
Compeer celebrated 30 years of serving Niagara County residents in 2015
Both adult program and youth program volunteers were recognized in November with favors awards dinner and many thanks for their time and service to others Theyrsquore the reason Compeer works Four special volunteers were honored at this 30th Volunteer Recognition Theyrsquove each been volunteering for Compeer Niagara for over 20 years and have each been giving supportive friendship to two or more individuals during that time Along with Compeerrsquos other volunteers Kathy Judy Jimmie and Linda are the role models we all look to when we hear the words ldquocommunity servicerdquo Thanks to each and every one who supports Compeer Niagara
The Compeer model is based on the simple premise that ldquofriendship is powerful medicinerdquo A supportive caring friend can make all the difference to someone who has no one else Volunteers throughout Niagara County are needed Yoursquod be matched with someone who lives near you and is interested in the same things you are interested in Do you like to fish watch football walk in the park or go to the movies We have someone whorsquod like to meet you Call Compeer at 433-3780
The VOICE Page 6 Mental Health Association
The MHA in Niagara County Inc visits the North Tonawanda Library frequently to touch base with the
people in the NT community You can stop by our table at the library to get information about our pro-
grams referral information for a number of different topics or just to sit and chat for a couple of
minutes We love seeing people from the North Tonawanda community and telling people about every-
thing the MHA has to offer To find out when we will be at the NT Library next give Pamela Szalay a
call at 433-3780 ext 304 Hope to see you there
Information and Referral Together the MHA and the Niagara County Depart-
ment of Mental Health provide you with these vital
services
Call Center get assistance by calling the HELP
Line at 716-433-5432
Directories we regularly update and reprint the
HELP Book as well as the Niagara County Self-
Help Clearinghouse and Lockport Family Re-
source Guide
Website Download any of our directories and
find information about support groups programs
etc at wwwmhanccom
Tun e in t o
The Ma ny Fa c es o f
Menta l Hea l t h
Channel 20
Tuesdays at 5 pm and 10 pm
(see TV listings for additional times)
All programs are produced by MHA in Niagara County Inc
LCTV
Look for us at the North Tonawanda Library
Happy 2016 everyone So far the New Year has been a busy one for us at the MHA
Our Peers in Niagara County (PINC) a collaboration with the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Health Home has continued to grow Monique Irving and Robert Raymond (our Peer Specialists who work un-der the PINC program) have both done an excellent job providing peer supports and services to the indi-
viduals in the program
The Consumer Planning Advisory Committee (CPAC) was extremely excited to have Justine Hays Eat Smart New York Nutritionist from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County come and do a fantastic presentation last month on reducing sugar in our diets and how too much sugar can negatively affect our
health
Our collaboration with the HOPE House in Lockport has continued to flourish as wersquove been able to provide
supports advocacy and linkages for the individuals who have come through the house
We look forward to the rest of 2016 and hope everyone has a great new year
Steve Ferguson Director sfergusonmhanccom
Ext 311
PROGRAM UPDATE
Consumer Activities
The Compeer for Youth Program has had a wonderful winter Our 30 enrolled families have enjoyed many activi-
ties and educational opportunities As some of our Compeer kids get older we see tremendous personal growth Many of
the older Compeer kids have become like mentors to the younger ones at our Compeer activities The holiday party in Niag-
ara Wheatfield was a prime example of children supporting and helping each other The parents enjoyed seeing each oth-
er as well We still collaborate with NiagaraOrleans BOCES LPN program to offer internship hours working with our Com-
peer kids Itrsquos been hugely successful
We have a wonderful year planned for Compeer for Youth We will be spending time at an animal sanctuary
touring the Niagara Falls Air Force Base and going to a special presentation at the Buffalo State College planetarium
These are great opportunities for the kids to expand their understanding of things outside their own backyards while enjoy-
ing time with family and peers
As the number of families continues to rise our need for volunteers does as
well We are so happy that our Compeer matches have been so meaningful to
those involved but we still have a lot of kids waiting for a friend If you have
just 4 hours a month we need you We need you to take a child fishing or to
a movie or for a walk or anything else you may like to do Please consider
spending a few hours a month making a difference in a childrsquos life Feel free
to call anytime to get more information on how you can become a Compeer
for Youth volunteer
The VOICE Page 4 Mental Health Association Page 5 Winter 2016 Call us at 716-433-3780
Heather Jones Coordinator heatherjmhanccom
Ext 313
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer for Youth
Pamela Szalay Director pszalaymhanccom
Ext 304
PROGRAM UPDATE
Community Education amp Referral
2015 was a year of change and high impact for Community Education and Referral and we are proud to have reached and assisted over 3356 individuals We hope to continue and expand our work in 2016 A highlight in the area of Information and Referral was launching an online version of the HELP Book Now anyone can use a computer tablet or smartphone to get the most updated information In Community Education our trainers presented at 104 events and reached over 2400 individuals at schools colleges businesses and community organizations Here are some highlights
We trained nearly 90 individuals to effectively run support groups through the Support Group Facilitator Trainings
We provided presentations on conflict resolution and stress management to hundreds of youth at schools and youth programs
We trained over 100 individuals in the Hearing Distressing Voices Simulation Training which allows people to experi-ence the challenge of performing simple tasks while undergoing a psychotic episode
We collaborated with Niagara University and Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center to host an event Changing Our Minds A Mental Health Summit The event drew nearly 200 people interested in increasing their understanding about mental health
We led the Niagara County Coalition for Suicide Prevention
We provided orientations on mental health to nursing students
We presented a pre-school story time to children at day care centers
Several staff members received training in Mental Health First Aid and one became a certified trainer In addition we reached the community through the media Eight ldquoMind Mattersrdquo columns were published in the Lockport Union Sun Journal and Niagara Gazette Several programs were produced and aired on LCTV for our television show ldquoThe Many Faces of Mental Healthrdquo
Billie Jean Darrell Coordinator bdarrellmhanccom
Ext 312
PROGRAM UPDATE
In-Home Respite
Hello friends I am very happy to be introducing myself to you as the new In-Home Respite Coordinator It is a privilege to have this position and offer respite to caregivers of children with mental health diagnoses as we all need a break at one time or another If you donrsquot know about IHR already please call me at any time to
request more information
I would also like to thank the families that are using this service as well as the very diligent and hard workers who make this program possible You are the ones making a difference in familiesrsquo lives and allowing
them to take time for their own self-care Again thank you
If you are a caregiver and you have a child who has a diagnosable mental illness and you could use some time for yourself donrsquot be afraid to ask for help IHR is a free service to you and we are happy to go anywhere in Niagara County to allow you to get the time you need for your
personal self-care
If you are interested in joining the team that gives caregivers the much-needed opportunity to take a break please contact me at the MHA today I am happy to interview those of you who would like this chance nearly any
day of the week and as needed on weekends
With Appreciation
Billie Darrell
The VOICE Page 2
Wersquove all heard references to PTSD ndash in articles TV shows movies ndash but do we understand it The Post-
Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook by Glenn R Schiraldi PhD can help with treatment suggestions and ex-
planations to increase our knowledge of a disorder that affects not only military veterans but anyone who has
experienced an overwhelming event
The book is subtitled ldquoa guide to healing recovery and growthrdquo and certainly that would be the goal of any-
one afflicted with PTSD We find explanations of breathing techniques physical exercise and thought process-
es that might help someone control the reactions that make day to day life difficult Of course the book is no
substitute for the guidance of a medical professional but there are helpful suggestions and ideas to explore that
can be brought to counseling sessions including lsquoforgiveness imageryrsquo used to diffuse anger and help healing
Finding constructive ways to express feelings can help to relieve pain from the past and help wounds to heal
This book can be a useful tool to support moving forward in life
Mental Health Association Page 7 Winter 2016 Call us at 716-433-3780
Anxiety Depression Support Group
for Adults
Meets at MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine Street
Lockport NY 14094
When Every Thursday
230-430 pm
Alzheimerrsquos Support Group (for caregivers)
Meets at MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine St
Lockport NY 14094
When 1st amp 3rd Thursday of each month
100ndash 300 pm
Grief Share Support Group (meets at two locations)
Meets at
MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine Street
Lockport NY 14094
When
2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month
600-730 pm
Meets at
Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center ndashMain Floor
621 10th St
Niagara Falls NY 14301
When
1st and 3rd Monday of each month
600-730 pm
Art for Relaxation
Art classes offered free of charge All materials pro-vided Work at your own pace on a project of your
choice
Meets at Urban Park Towers
77 Main St
Lockport NY 14094
When Every Wednesday
1200ndash 300 pm
Letrsquos Talk mdash support for teens
The ldquoLetrsquos Talkrdquo Discussion Group for young people 19 and
under is a place where you can talk about whatrsquos going on
in your life find out how to deal with stress and learn to
feel good about being you Confidential safe environment
Meets at
MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine Street
Lockport NY 14094
When
1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month
600-730 pm
Donrsquot see what you need
Call us and we will help you find the perfect support
group for you
Please call (716) 433-3780 to confirm dates times and locations for support groups sponsored by the MHA before attending any group Information regarding support groups not sponsored by the MHA may also be available
Peer Led Support Groups Sponsored by the MHA in Niagara County Inc
NEW
ldquoGetting Your Game Back Onrdquo (a mental
wellness support group for young adults ages
17-25)
Meets at MHA in Niagara County Inc
36 Pine St
Lockport NY 14094
When 3rd Monday of every month
600ndash 730 pm
New Support Group
MHA will be sponsoring a new support group called
ldquoGetting Your Game Back Onrdquo for young adults from ages 17 to 25
This is a peer-led support group focused on mental wellness and peer support for
the ups and downs that come with the daily life of a young adult
Meetings will be held on the 3rd Monday
of each month from 600 to 730 pm at the Mental Health Association in Niag-
ara County Inc 36 Pine St Lockport
For a complete
listing of all the
support groups
the MHA offers
see page 7
From the MHA Library
by Jackie Kenney
Page 3 Winter 2016
Linda Stevens Director lstevensmhanccom
Ext 307
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer for Adults
Check out what lsquoCompeer for Adultsrsquo has been up to
Call us at 716-433-3780
As always October is when Compeer participants volunteers and staff get together for what wersquove named our ldquoHarvest Banquetrdquo We have a Thanksgiving type feast turkey and all the trimmings and give thanks
for our blessings-giving each other support and friendship throughout the year
In November Compeer had a craft evening in Wheatfield and made seasonal treats involving marshmal-
lows hot chocolate and candy canes as well as decorations suitable for hanging on Christmas trees
What better to do but have an early December Holiday party this year in Niagara Falls We always hope by having it early the December weather will be good to us This year it was Lots of Happy Holiday
wishes were shared by all
Usually in January Compeer takes the time to plan activities for the new year so we have out first get-together of the year in February This February wersquoll have a movie night in Niagara Falls and in March
wersquoll share dinner and shopping at Gordie Harperrsquos in Newfane
Compeer is always in need of volunteers who have just a few hours of time each month to give to someone who needs supportive friendship The inter-view screening and training are all taken care of by our Compeer staff All
you need to do is make that phone call wersquoll walk you through the rest
Call Compeer at 433-3780
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer
Linda Stevens Director lstevensmhanccom
Ext 307
Compeer celebrated 30 years of serving Niagara County residents in 2015
Both adult program and youth program volunteers were recognized in November with favors awards dinner and many thanks for their time and service to others Theyrsquore the reason Compeer works Four special volunteers were honored at this 30th Volunteer Recognition Theyrsquove each been volunteering for Compeer Niagara for over 20 years and have each been giving supportive friendship to two or more individuals during that time Along with Compeerrsquos other volunteers Kathy Judy Jimmie and Linda are the role models we all look to when we hear the words ldquocommunity servicerdquo Thanks to each and every one who supports Compeer Niagara
The Compeer model is based on the simple premise that ldquofriendship is powerful medicinerdquo A supportive caring friend can make all the difference to someone who has no one else Volunteers throughout Niagara County are needed Yoursquod be matched with someone who lives near you and is interested in the same things you are interested in Do you like to fish watch football walk in the park or go to the movies We have someone whorsquod like to meet you Call Compeer at 433-3780
The VOICE Page 6 Mental Health Association
The MHA in Niagara County Inc visits the North Tonawanda Library frequently to touch base with the
people in the NT community You can stop by our table at the library to get information about our pro-
grams referral information for a number of different topics or just to sit and chat for a couple of
minutes We love seeing people from the North Tonawanda community and telling people about every-
thing the MHA has to offer To find out when we will be at the NT Library next give Pamela Szalay a
call at 433-3780 ext 304 Hope to see you there
Information and Referral Together the MHA and the Niagara County Depart-
ment of Mental Health provide you with these vital
services
Call Center get assistance by calling the HELP
Line at 716-433-5432
Directories we regularly update and reprint the
HELP Book as well as the Niagara County Self-
Help Clearinghouse and Lockport Family Re-
source Guide
Website Download any of our directories and
find information about support groups programs
etc at wwwmhanccom
Tun e in t o
The Ma ny Fa c es o f
Menta l Hea l t h
Channel 20
Tuesdays at 5 pm and 10 pm
(see TV listings for additional times)
All programs are produced by MHA in Niagara County Inc
LCTV
Look for us at the North Tonawanda Library
Happy 2016 everyone So far the New Year has been a busy one for us at the MHA
Our Peers in Niagara County (PINC) a collaboration with the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Health Home has continued to grow Monique Irving and Robert Raymond (our Peer Specialists who work un-der the PINC program) have both done an excellent job providing peer supports and services to the indi-
viduals in the program
The Consumer Planning Advisory Committee (CPAC) was extremely excited to have Justine Hays Eat Smart New York Nutritionist from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County come and do a fantastic presentation last month on reducing sugar in our diets and how too much sugar can negatively affect our
health
Our collaboration with the HOPE House in Lockport has continued to flourish as wersquove been able to provide
supports advocacy and linkages for the individuals who have come through the house
We look forward to the rest of 2016 and hope everyone has a great new year
Steve Ferguson Director sfergusonmhanccom
Ext 311
PROGRAM UPDATE
Consumer Activities
The Compeer for Youth Program has had a wonderful winter Our 30 enrolled families have enjoyed many activi-
ties and educational opportunities As some of our Compeer kids get older we see tremendous personal growth Many of
the older Compeer kids have become like mentors to the younger ones at our Compeer activities The holiday party in Niag-
ara Wheatfield was a prime example of children supporting and helping each other The parents enjoyed seeing each oth-
er as well We still collaborate with NiagaraOrleans BOCES LPN program to offer internship hours working with our Com-
peer kids Itrsquos been hugely successful
We have a wonderful year planned for Compeer for Youth We will be spending time at an animal sanctuary
touring the Niagara Falls Air Force Base and going to a special presentation at the Buffalo State College planetarium
These are great opportunities for the kids to expand their understanding of things outside their own backyards while enjoy-
ing time with family and peers
As the number of families continues to rise our need for volunteers does as
well We are so happy that our Compeer matches have been so meaningful to
those involved but we still have a lot of kids waiting for a friend If you have
just 4 hours a month we need you We need you to take a child fishing or to
a movie or for a walk or anything else you may like to do Please consider
spending a few hours a month making a difference in a childrsquos life Feel free
to call anytime to get more information on how you can become a Compeer
for Youth volunteer
The VOICE Page 4 Mental Health Association Page 5 Winter 2016 Call us at 716-433-3780
Heather Jones Coordinator heatherjmhanccom
Ext 313
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer for Youth
Pamela Szalay Director pszalaymhanccom
Ext 304
PROGRAM UPDATE
Community Education amp Referral
2015 was a year of change and high impact for Community Education and Referral and we are proud to have reached and assisted over 3356 individuals We hope to continue and expand our work in 2016 A highlight in the area of Information and Referral was launching an online version of the HELP Book Now anyone can use a computer tablet or smartphone to get the most updated information In Community Education our trainers presented at 104 events and reached over 2400 individuals at schools colleges businesses and community organizations Here are some highlights
We trained nearly 90 individuals to effectively run support groups through the Support Group Facilitator Trainings
We provided presentations on conflict resolution and stress management to hundreds of youth at schools and youth programs
We trained over 100 individuals in the Hearing Distressing Voices Simulation Training which allows people to experi-ence the challenge of performing simple tasks while undergoing a psychotic episode
We collaborated with Niagara University and Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center to host an event Changing Our Minds A Mental Health Summit The event drew nearly 200 people interested in increasing their understanding about mental health
We led the Niagara County Coalition for Suicide Prevention
We provided orientations on mental health to nursing students
We presented a pre-school story time to children at day care centers
Several staff members received training in Mental Health First Aid and one became a certified trainer In addition we reached the community through the media Eight ldquoMind Mattersrdquo columns were published in the Lockport Union Sun Journal and Niagara Gazette Several programs were produced and aired on LCTV for our television show ldquoThe Many Faces of Mental Healthrdquo
Billie Jean Darrell Coordinator bdarrellmhanccom
Ext 312
PROGRAM UPDATE
In-Home Respite
Hello friends I am very happy to be introducing myself to you as the new In-Home Respite Coordinator It is a privilege to have this position and offer respite to caregivers of children with mental health diagnoses as we all need a break at one time or another If you donrsquot know about IHR already please call me at any time to
request more information
I would also like to thank the families that are using this service as well as the very diligent and hard workers who make this program possible You are the ones making a difference in familiesrsquo lives and allowing
them to take time for their own self-care Again thank you
If you are a caregiver and you have a child who has a diagnosable mental illness and you could use some time for yourself donrsquot be afraid to ask for help IHR is a free service to you and we are happy to go anywhere in Niagara County to allow you to get the time you need for your
personal self-care
If you are interested in joining the team that gives caregivers the much-needed opportunity to take a break please contact me at the MHA today I am happy to interview those of you who would like this chance nearly any
day of the week and as needed on weekends
With Appreciation
Billie Darrell
Page 3 Winter 2016
Linda Stevens Director lstevensmhanccom
Ext 307
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer for Adults
Check out what lsquoCompeer for Adultsrsquo has been up to
Call us at 716-433-3780
As always October is when Compeer participants volunteers and staff get together for what wersquove named our ldquoHarvest Banquetrdquo We have a Thanksgiving type feast turkey and all the trimmings and give thanks
for our blessings-giving each other support and friendship throughout the year
In November Compeer had a craft evening in Wheatfield and made seasonal treats involving marshmal-
lows hot chocolate and candy canes as well as decorations suitable for hanging on Christmas trees
What better to do but have an early December Holiday party this year in Niagara Falls We always hope by having it early the December weather will be good to us This year it was Lots of Happy Holiday
wishes were shared by all
Usually in January Compeer takes the time to plan activities for the new year so we have out first get-together of the year in February This February wersquoll have a movie night in Niagara Falls and in March
wersquoll share dinner and shopping at Gordie Harperrsquos in Newfane
Compeer is always in need of volunteers who have just a few hours of time each month to give to someone who needs supportive friendship The inter-view screening and training are all taken care of by our Compeer staff All
you need to do is make that phone call wersquoll walk you through the rest
Call Compeer at 433-3780
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer
Linda Stevens Director lstevensmhanccom
Ext 307
Compeer celebrated 30 years of serving Niagara County residents in 2015
Both adult program and youth program volunteers were recognized in November with favors awards dinner and many thanks for their time and service to others Theyrsquore the reason Compeer works Four special volunteers were honored at this 30th Volunteer Recognition Theyrsquove each been volunteering for Compeer Niagara for over 20 years and have each been giving supportive friendship to two or more individuals during that time Along with Compeerrsquos other volunteers Kathy Judy Jimmie and Linda are the role models we all look to when we hear the words ldquocommunity servicerdquo Thanks to each and every one who supports Compeer Niagara
The Compeer model is based on the simple premise that ldquofriendship is powerful medicinerdquo A supportive caring friend can make all the difference to someone who has no one else Volunteers throughout Niagara County are needed Yoursquod be matched with someone who lives near you and is interested in the same things you are interested in Do you like to fish watch football walk in the park or go to the movies We have someone whorsquod like to meet you Call Compeer at 433-3780
The VOICE Page 6 Mental Health Association
The MHA in Niagara County Inc visits the North Tonawanda Library frequently to touch base with the
people in the NT community You can stop by our table at the library to get information about our pro-
grams referral information for a number of different topics or just to sit and chat for a couple of
minutes We love seeing people from the North Tonawanda community and telling people about every-
thing the MHA has to offer To find out when we will be at the NT Library next give Pamela Szalay a
call at 433-3780 ext 304 Hope to see you there
Information and Referral Together the MHA and the Niagara County Depart-
ment of Mental Health provide you with these vital
services
Call Center get assistance by calling the HELP
Line at 716-433-5432
Directories we regularly update and reprint the
HELP Book as well as the Niagara County Self-
Help Clearinghouse and Lockport Family Re-
source Guide
Website Download any of our directories and
find information about support groups programs
etc at wwwmhanccom
Tun e in t o
The Ma ny Fa c es o f
Menta l Hea l t h
Channel 20
Tuesdays at 5 pm and 10 pm
(see TV listings for additional times)
All programs are produced by MHA in Niagara County Inc
LCTV
Look for us at the North Tonawanda Library
Happy 2016 everyone So far the New Year has been a busy one for us at the MHA
Our Peers in Niagara County (PINC) a collaboration with the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Health Home has continued to grow Monique Irving and Robert Raymond (our Peer Specialists who work un-der the PINC program) have both done an excellent job providing peer supports and services to the indi-
viduals in the program
The Consumer Planning Advisory Committee (CPAC) was extremely excited to have Justine Hays Eat Smart New York Nutritionist from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County come and do a fantastic presentation last month on reducing sugar in our diets and how too much sugar can negatively affect our
health
Our collaboration with the HOPE House in Lockport has continued to flourish as wersquove been able to provide
supports advocacy and linkages for the individuals who have come through the house
We look forward to the rest of 2016 and hope everyone has a great new year
Steve Ferguson Director sfergusonmhanccom
Ext 311
PROGRAM UPDATE
Consumer Activities
The Compeer for Youth Program has had a wonderful winter Our 30 enrolled families have enjoyed many activi-
ties and educational opportunities As some of our Compeer kids get older we see tremendous personal growth Many of
the older Compeer kids have become like mentors to the younger ones at our Compeer activities The holiday party in Niag-
ara Wheatfield was a prime example of children supporting and helping each other The parents enjoyed seeing each oth-
er as well We still collaborate with NiagaraOrleans BOCES LPN program to offer internship hours working with our Com-
peer kids Itrsquos been hugely successful
We have a wonderful year planned for Compeer for Youth We will be spending time at an animal sanctuary
touring the Niagara Falls Air Force Base and going to a special presentation at the Buffalo State College planetarium
These are great opportunities for the kids to expand their understanding of things outside their own backyards while enjoy-
ing time with family and peers
As the number of families continues to rise our need for volunteers does as
well We are so happy that our Compeer matches have been so meaningful to
those involved but we still have a lot of kids waiting for a friend If you have
just 4 hours a month we need you We need you to take a child fishing or to
a movie or for a walk or anything else you may like to do Please consider
spending a few hours a month making a difference in a childrsquos life Feel free
to call anytime to get more information on how you can become a Compeer
for Youth volunteer
The VOICE Page 4 Mental Health Association Page 5 Winter 2016 Call us at 716-433-3780
Heather Jones Coordinator heatherjmhanccom
Ext 313
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer for Youth
Pamela Szalay Director pszalaymhanccom
Ext 304
PROGRAM UPDATE
Community Education amp Referral
2015 was a year of change and high impact for Community Education and Referral and we are proud to have reached and assisted over 3356 individuals We hope to continue and expand our work in 2016 A highlight in the area of Information and Referral was launching an online version of the HELP Book Now anyone can use a computer tablet or smartphone to get the most updated information In Community Education our trainers presented at 104 events and reached over 2400 individuals at schools colleges businesses and community organizations Here are some highlights
We trained nearly 90 individuals to effectively run support groups through the Support Group Facilitator Trainings
We provided presentations on conflict resolution and stress management to hundreds of youth at schools and youth programs
We trained over 100 individuals in the Hearing Distressing Voices Simulation Training which allows people to experi-ence the challenge of performing simple tasks while undergoing a psychotic episode
We collaborated with Niagara University and Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center to host an event Changing Our Minds A Mental Health Summit The event drew nearly 200 people interested in increasing their understanding about mental health
We led the Niagara County Coalition for Suicide Prevention
We provided orientations on mental health to nursing students
We presented a pre-school story time to children at day care centers
Several staff members received training in Mental Health First Aid and one became a certified trainer In addition we reached the community through the media Eight ldquoMind Mattersrdquo columns were published in the Lockport Union Sun Journal and Niagara Gazette Several programs were produced and aired on LCTV for our television show ldquoThe Many Faces of Mental Healthrdquo
Billie Jean Darrell Coordinator bdarrellmhanccom
Ext 312
PROGRAM UPDATE
In-Home Respite
Hello friends I am very happy to be introducing myself to you as the new In-Home Respite Coordinator It is a privilege to have this position and offer respite to caregivers of children with mental health diagnoses as we all need a break at one time or another If you donrsquot know about IHR already please call me at any time to
request more information
I would also like to thank the families that are using this service as well as the very diligent and hard workers who make this program possible You are the ones making a difference in familiesrsquo lives and allowing
them to take time for their own self-care Again thank you
If you are a caregiver and you have a child who has a diagnosable mental illness and you could use some time for yourself donrsquot be afraid to ask for help IHR is a free service to you and we are happy to go anywhere in Niagara County to allow you to get the time you need for your
personal self-care
If you are interested in joining the team that gives caregivers the much-needed opportunity to take a break please contact me at the MHA today I am happy to interview those of you who would like this chance nearly any
day of the week and as needed on weekends
With Appreciation
Billie Darrell
Happy 2016 everyone So far the New Year has been a busy one for us at the MHA
Our Peers in Niagara County (PINC) a collaboration with the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Health Home has continued to grow Monique Irving and Robert Raymond (our Peer Specialists who work un-der the PINC program) have both done an excellent job providing peer supports and services to the indi-
viduals in the program
The Consumer Planning Advisory Committee (CPAC) was extremely excited to have Justine Hays Eat Smart New York Nutritionist from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County come and do a fantastic presentation last month on reducing sugar in our diets and how too much sugar can negatively affect our
health
Our collaboration with the HOPE House in Lockport has continued to flourish as wersquove been able to provide
supports advocacy and linkages for the individuals who have come through the house
We look forward to the rest of 2016 and hope everyone has a great new year
Steve Ferguson Director sfergusonmhanccom
Ext 311
PROGRAM UPDATE
Consumer Activities
The Compeer for Youth Program has had a wonderful winter Our 30 enrolled families have enjoyed many activi-
ties and educational opportunities As some of our Compeer kids get older we see tremendous personal growth Many of
the older Compeer kids have become like mentors to the younger ones at our Compeer activities The holiday party in Niag-
ara Wheatfield was a prime example of children supporting and helping each other The parents enjoyed seeing each oth-
er as well We still collaborate with NiagaraOrleans BOCES LPN program to offer internship hours working with our Com-
peer kids Itrsquos been hugely successful
We have a wonderful year planned for Compeer for Youth We will be spending time at an animal sanctuary
touring the Niagara Falls Air Force Base and going to a special presentation at the Buffalo State College planetarium
These are great opportunities for the kids to expand their understanding of things outside their own backyards while enjoy-
ing time with family and peers
As the number of families continues to rise our need for volunteers does as
well We are so happy that our Compeer matches have been so meaningful to
those involved but we still have a lot of kids waiting for a friend If you have
just 4 hours a month we need you We need you to take a child fishing or to
a movie or for a walk or anything else you may like to do Please consider
spending a few hours a month making a difference in a childrsquos life Feel free
to call anytime to get more information on how you can become a Compeer
for Youth volunteer
The VOICE Page 4 Mental Health Association Page 5 Winter 2016 Call us at 716-433-3780
Heather Jones Coordinator heatherjmhanccom
Ext 313
PROGRAM UPDATE
Compeer for Youth
Pamela Szalay Director pszalaymhanccom
Ext 304
PROGRAM UPDATE
Community Education amp Referral
2015 was a year of change and high impact for Community Education and Referral and we are proud to have reached and assisted over 3356 individuals We hope to continue and expand our work in 2016 A highlight in the area of Information and Referral was launching an online version of the HELP Book Now anyone can use a computer tablet or smartphone to get the most updated information In Community Education our trainers presented at 104 events and reached over 2400 individuals at schools colleges businesses and community organizations Here are some highlights
We trained nearly 90 individuals to effectively run support groups through the Support Group Facilitator Trainings
We provided presentations on conflict resolution and stress management to hundreds of youth at schools and youth programs
We trained over 100 individuals in the Hearing Distressing Voices Simulation Training which allows people to experi-ence the challenge of performing simple tasks while undergoing a psychotic episode
We collaborated with Niagara University and Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center to host an event Changing Our Minds A Mental Health Summit The event drew nearly 200 people interested in increasing their understanding about mental health
We led the Niagara County Coalition for Suicide Prevention
We provided orientations on mental health to nursing students
We presented a pre-school story time to children at day care centers
Several staff members received training in Mental Health First Aid and one became a certified trainer In addition we reached the community through the media Eight ldquoMind Mattersrdquo columns were published in the Lockport Union Sun Journal and Niagara Gazette Several programs were produced and aired on LCTV for our television show ldquoThe Many Faces of Mental Healthrdquo
Billie Jean Darrell Coordinator bdarrellmhanccom
Ext 312
PROGRAM UPDATE
In-Home Respite
Hello friends I am very happy to be introducing myself to you as the new In-Home Respite Coordinator It is a privilege to have this position and offer respite to caregivers of children with mental health diagnoses as we all need a break at one time or another If you donrsquot know about IHR already please call me at any time to
request more information
I would also like to thank the families that are using this service as well as the very diligent and hard workers who make this program possible You are the ones making a difference in familiesrsquo lives and allowing
them to take time for their own self-care Again thank you
If you are a caregiver and you have a child who has a diagnosable mental illness and you could use some time for yourself donrsquot be afraid to ask for help IHR is a free service to you and we are happy to go anywhere in Niagara County to allow you to get the time you need for your
personal self-care
If you are interested in joining the team that gives caregivers the much-needed opportunity to take a break please contact me at the MHA today I am happy to interview those of you who would like this chance nearly any
day of the week and as needed on weekends
With Appreciation
Billie Darrell
