Posts

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month

Image
Brain Injury Awareness Month is dedicated to recognizing and raising awareness about the spectrum of brain injuries, from mild concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). This month focuses on preventing such injuries, the challenges survivors face, and the latest advances in research and treatment.   Five Fast Facts:  Concussions happen more often than you think. Concussion symptoms are not always obvious.  Alcohol and caffeine can impact concussion recovery. Screen time impacts concussion recovery. Driving skills can be impacted by a concussion or TBI. You can access more information about each fact here . Ways to Get Involved If you are passionate about this cause or have a personal connection to it, here's how you can make an impact: Wear Green: Symbolizing brain injury awareness, wear green accessories or clothing, especially on designated awareness days.  Attend Workshops: Participate in seminars, workshops, or webinars focusing on brain ...

Free Mental Health Support for NC Teens

In October 2024, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) partnered with Alliance Health and Somethings to expand mental health support for teens in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.  About Somethings Somethings is a mental health platform that connects teens and young adults with Certified Peer Specialist Mentors and can provide referrals to licensed therapists. Each teen is connected with a mentor who has overcome what they are going through and shares common interests. Mentors provide a relatable, low-pressure way to connect. If you know a teen (age 13 and older) who needs mental health support, visit somethings.com/northcarolina to get connected to support. Services are available via text and video calls after school from 3-11 p.m. and on weekends.   In addition to mental health support for a variety of diagnoses, teens can also get support with future planning, social isolation, academic challenges, relationships, family dynamics, sib...

Reset, Renew, Recharge

Here are some mental health reminders as we prepare for a well-deserved holiday break. Our everyday work can be challenging sometimes and we need reminders to put on our own oxygen mask FIRST. Take care of yourselves and those that you love during this holiday season. Although it is a joyous season, some of us may have difficulty finding our joy for many reasons. Take the opportunity to REST, RECHARGE, RESET & RENEW over the upcoming holiday break:  REST - Rest means to stop being active for a period of time to relax and regain strength. Taking a break from the emotional demands of daily life is required for our mental health. Getting adequate sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being. Sleep is required to produce serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of happiness and well-being. Sleep helps our bodies cope with stress effectively and reduces our risk for serious health problems. RECHARGE - Take a break from activities that are difficult...