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ACMH

ACMH

Phone: 517 372-4016

Parent Line: (888) ACMH-KID (226-4543)

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Tis the Season

December 16, 2022 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

The season of comfort and joy is once again upon us and we at ACMH were certainly feeling it today, as we gathered together for an in-person staff retreat for the first time in over 3 years! An opportunity we may have taken for granted in the past before realizing the ability to simply ‘be together’ is never guaranteed. Making a day dedicated to doing just that all that more precious and valuable.

So what a joy and an absolute privilege it was to spend a day together celebrating our team and reflecting upon our accomplishments, our goals and especially the families, youth and community partners we have had the privilege to support or partner with over the past year.

Holidays are also a time for hope and gratitude so we also want to be sure to take this moment to thank all of you for being such an integral part of the ACMH Family and the work we do.  Your involvement, support, partnership and commitment to children’s mental health throughout the year is truly our most treasured gift!

We hope that you and yours are safe and well throughout this holiday season and that you too have the opportunity to just ‘be together’ as 2022 comes to a close!We look forward to getting back to work with you all next year and wish you all a holiday filled peace, relaxation, joy and all of the love, laughter, magic and especially hope that make this time of year so very special!   The ACMH Family

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

So-long Summer….Time to gear up for fall!

September 6, 2022 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

 

Yesterday, we celebrated Labor Day. A day set aside to pay tribute to all those who work to make the world go round. A fitting time to shout out a heartfelt thank you to all of our partners and providers in children’s mental health who work tirelessly every day to support children and youth with mental health challenges. As well as the countless families across our state whose endless work supporting and advocating for their kids’ mental health needs and ensuring they have access to the services and supports they need often feels like or is a full time job…

Labor Day also marks the unofficial end to summer. A signal that fall is surely on its way. Many have already returned to the classroom and even the trees are starting to change. Fall 2022 is already looking like a busy, colorful and exciting time for all with a return to in-person learning and other spaces and faces we have all missed and most exciting for us the return of the ACMH Fall Conference which will be held November 9th at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center on the campus of Michigan State University.

This year’s conference theme is We Shall Overcome: Advocacy to Activism. Which seems a fitting call to action at this particular moment in time as we stand in the midst of a national crisis in children’s mental health. Indeed, the need to join together and act now to more effectively meet the needs of children, youth and young adults with emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges is great in our state, currently ranked 27th in the nation for youth mental health by Mental Health America; Where historical barriers to access and capacity coupled with increasing numbers of children and youth with emerging or escalating mental health needs and 2+ years of pandemic related disruption to essential regular and preventive community based mental health care and school and community supports has flooded an existing gap between the number of children and youth needing services and those receiving it. Leaving countless youth and families struggling to get the basic care and support they need.

In fact, the majority of families of kids with emerging mental health needs contacting ACMH report being unable to locate available providers and parents of youth with existing needs including those who have received intensive home-based services in the past sharing they are now unable to access many of the critical supports they and their kids rely on, including those services they find most helpful to their ability to keep them safe and supported in their homes such as respite, CLS, crisis and home and community-based services. Inevitably these un-met needs, absent supports, or long delays getting connected often lead to escalating mental health challenges and increased need and demand for already scarce intensive or crisis services and/or inpatient care. And most recently we have begun to hear from some families of kids in crisis that instead of getting connected to mental health treatment or supports when they reach out for help, they are instead being advised to contact the police, CPS or directed to try the justice or child welfare systems as possible avenues to get their kids the support they need. Which should be simply unacceptable to us all and a sure sign it is time to make a change.

Indeed, the time to act is now! As we join together to address the increasing challenges we face, it is also important to remember that accessing mental health care or the level of services and supports their children need has been an ongoing challenge for many Michigan families for years. Even prior to the pandemic existing barriers such as inadequate resources, uneven service arrays, and severe shortages in behavioral health providers have left many without critical supports they need. These problems are not new and solving them will not be easy.

It will take time, dedication and perseverance of many and the expertise of all us especially that of youth and families whose lived experience likely holds the key to real and long lasting change!

Indeed the time to join together in advocacy and activism is now.  It will not be easy… but deep in our heart, we do believe ~ We Shall Overcome and Change is finally Gonna Come!

Filed Under: Uncategorized

May is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month!

May 1, 2022 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

 

Each year during Children’s Mental Health Awareness month, ACMH hosts a special event to highlight the importance of mental health and raise awareness about the needs of children, youth and young adults with mental health challenges and their families. This year ACMH is hosting #Worth1000Words a virtual event throughout the month of May and invites families, youth, parents/caregivers and those who support them to share their stories through photography. Click here to learn more and join us today!

ACMH has always understood the importance of children’s mental health and has spent over 30 years working to provide help and hope to families of children and youth with emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges across our state. With recent increases in the number of children and youth with emerging or escalating mental health needs across Michigan and the nation, continuing to raise awareness about mental health and the real issues facing children, youth and young adults with mental health challenges and their families is especially important this year. But awareness isn’t enough…asking for help is hard….and getting help is often unfortunately much harder…Throughout awareness month ACMH will use our voices, platforms and online spaces to highlight both the importance of mental health and the challenges many Michigan children, youth and families still face when accessing the mental health services and supports they need, as well as, current community and system barriers to meeting increasing needs. ACMH looks forward to partnering with families, youth, local and state partners and other family and advocacy organizations across our great state as we shine a spotlight on children’s mental health and work to help inform solutions so we can move closer to our vision that All Michigan children, youth and young adults with mental health challenges and their families live in welcoming communities with access to quality, family-driven, youth-guided mental health  services and supports that meet their needs.  We would be honored to have you join us!

Together we can raise awareness & make a difference in children’s mental health!

Other Events and Happenings During Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month

 

Governor Whitmer Declares May 1-7 Mental Health Awareness Week for Children Youth and Their Families

The National Federation of Families is hosting a panel of young adults with lived experience who will reflect on what acceptance of their mental health needs would have meant to them as children and youth. We invite you to join us to hear their powerful stories and insights on Tuesday, May 24th from 2:00 – 3:30 pm ET and we encourage you to check out our latest infographics to learn more about this year’s Children’s Mental Health Acceptance campaign.

Want to Share Your Voice or hear from others about their mental health stories?

Check out Child Mind Institute’s Dare To Share Campaign.

Child Mind InstituteChild Mind Institute -- Dare To Share

The Dare to Share campaign kicked off last week with a very personal video from the fabulous P!NK and a powerful segment on CBS Mornings. The campaign features video testimonials from celebrities, public figures, athletes, and kids, opening up about how they found the courage to tell their mental health stories, and what we gain when we #DareToShare

Child Mind Institute also shared some great tips sheets to help kids ad families open up about mental health which you can download below or be visiting their event page here.

Parent TipSheet: Tips on how to help kids open up and feel comfortable talking about their mental health.

Kid TipSheet: Speaking up about struggles can feel scary, but it doesn’t have to be. These tips can help you get the conversation started.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Resources For Families – Supporting Your Kids During Times of Community, World, or School Violence

March 2, 2022 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

 

As parents it is often difficult to know how to best support our kids when they are exposed to, hear about or experience traumatic events in the world, community or even their school. We know that feeling safe and secure is critical to positive mental health.

Recent events such as the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde Texas, War in Ukraine, the Oxford School shooting, gun or other violence in communities, as well as, ongoing incidents of racism and social unrest across our state and nation has highlighted the need to share quality information and tools families can use. Pasted below are a variety of resources from trusted partners on specific topics or events we hope can help you to support your kids and family during these challenging times.

Resources in Response to the Robb Elementary School Shooting

In response to the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde Texas, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network has developed resources to help children, families, educators, and communities navigate what they are seeing and hearing, acknowledge their feelings, and find ways to cope together. These resources include:

For Parents & Caregivers

NCTSN Talking to Children About the Shooting

Talking to Children: When Scary Things Happen (En Español)

PFA Parent Tips for Helping School Age Children After Disasters

Talking to Teens About Frightening Events (En Español)

For Teens: Coping After Mass Violence(En Español)

NCTSN Age-Related Reactions to A Traumatic Event

SAMHSA Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event

AAP Talking to Children About Tragedies & Other News Events

APA Helping Your Children Manage Distress in the Aftermath of a Shooting

Talking to Children About Terrorist Attacks & School & Community Shootings in the News

NCTSN School Shooting Resources

Sesame Street in Communities: Community & Gun Violence

NIMH Helping Children & Adolescents Cope with Traumatic Events

AAP Talking with Children About Disasters

CDC Helping Children Cope During & After a Disaster

After a Crisis: Helping Young Children Heal

Once I Was Very Very Scared – Children’s book for young children

General Resources
NCTSN Coping After Mass Violence

SAMHSA Incidents of Mass Violence

For Teachers, Educators

CRWS Talking to Students About Violence

NCTSN Helping Youth After Community Trauma – Tips for Educators (En Español)

Help Lines:

SAMHSA Disaster/Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990

Grief Resources

NCTSN Helping School Age Children With Traumatic Grief (En Español)

Helping Teens with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers(En Español)

Helping Young Children with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers (En Español)

Guiding Adults in Talking to Children about Death and Attending Services

War in Ukraine including Military Family Resources

National Child Traumatic Stress Disorder  Resources in Response to the War on Ukraine

The recent attack on Ukraine has impacted many families in the United States, especially our military and veteran families and those who have family living in the region. The NCTSN and our partners have resources for those families who may need support during this time:

Highlighted Resource: Talking to Your Kids About War

General Child Trauma Resources

Age-Related Reactions to a Traumatic Event

Psychological First Aid for Displaced Children and Families

  • Traumatic Separation and Refugee and Immigrant Children: Tips for Current Caregivers
  • Understanding Refugee Trauma: For School Personnel, For Mental Health Professionals, and For Primary Care Providers
  • Coping in Hard Times: Fact Sheet for Parents, Youth, and School Personnel
  • Helping Children with Traumatic Grief: Young Children, School-Age Children, and Teens

Additional Helpline Resources

  • SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline – call or text 1-800-985-5990 (for Spanish, press “2”) to be connected to a trained counselor 24/7/365.
  • Military OneSource – call 1-800-342-9647 for eligible DOD service members and their families.
  • Veterans Crisis Line – call 1-800-273-8255, press “1” or text 838255 for all service members.
  • PTSD Consultation Program – for providers who treat Veterans. Ask a question by calling 866-948-7880 or emailing [email protected].

Military and Veteran Family Resources

  • Working Effectively with Military Families: 10 Key Concepts All Providers Should KnowUnderstanding Child Trauma & Resilience: For Military Parents and Caregivers
  • Honoring Our Babies and Toddlers: Supporting Young Children Affected by a Military Parent’s Deployment, Injury, or Death (Zero to Three)
  • Sesame Street for Military Families (website)
  • Community Support for Military Children and Families Throughout the Deployment Cycle (Center for Study of Traumatic Stress, CSTS)
  • Strengthening Military Families to Support Children’s Well-Being (CSTS)
  • Helping Children Cope During Deployment (CSTS)
  • Military Children and Families: Supporting Health and Managing Risk (webinar)
  • Impact of the Military Mission & Combat Deployment on the Service Members (webinar)
  • Understanding Deployment Related Stressors & Long-term Health in Military Service Members & Veterans: The Millennium Cohort Study (webinar)
  • An Overview of the Military Family Experience and Culture (webinar)

For those that are needing technical assistance or additional resources, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Greg Leskin [email protected] for Military and Veteran Family resource questions and Dr. Melissa Brymer at [email protected] for all other questions.

Resources to Support Families following the Oxford School Shooting

Our Hearts Go Out to Oxford and Communities Across Michigan

As a statewide family organization, the heart of the entire ACMH family goes out to and breaks for the families who lost their children, students and staff who were injured, lost classmates and friends and the entire Oxford community following the shooting at Oxford High School last week. We recognize there are no words, well-wishes or condolences we could possibly share here that can help make any of this any better or easier. The short and long-term impacts of this tragic event on children, youth, and families in Oxford and across our state will be immense and immeasurable and all of us will likely never be the same. Reminding us once again just how quickly our lives can be forever altered or affected by events that have the capacity to shatter our sense of safety and security, challenge our ability to cope and threaten our overall mental health and wellness.  

As an organization created to provide help and hope to families we like all Michiganders want to do anything we can to help. So if you, your child or family has been affected by this tragedy reach out today!

Events like this underscore the incredible importance of supporting children’s mental health and ensuring youth and their families have access to the services and support they need, which will be more important than ever as parents and communities across our state navigate the aftermath of this tragedy.  As an organization dedicated to helping ensure that all Michigan children and youth with mental health challenges and their families live in a safe, welcoming communities with access to needed services and supports we know that this is a critical moment, in our state and the stakes are especially high. Students, families and schools in Oxford and communities across our state will need a lot of extra care and support in the coming months. Which will certainly be a challenge in a time when mental health needs are already high and resources scarce. It will take all of us working together to ensure that everyone who needs help to deal with this crisis gets it. We will need to share our collective expertise, efforts, information, resources, services and supports so that everyone can access what they need to heal and move forward We owe it to them, ourselves, our communities and the future of our state to make sure they get what they need!

We know that access to quality information, resources and peer support are key in order for families, schools and communities to successfully support and advocate for the mental health needs of children and youth. We will be working to gather information, tips and resources that may be helpful and dedicating this page to sharing them for the next several months. As information from mental health and disaster professionals, families, youth and community partners is shared with us we will share them here. Please check back often as new resources will be posted regularly and be sure to let us know if you you have something you have found especially helpful or can’t find something you need or think may be helpful.

Resources for Youth, Parents , Caregivers, Schools and Communities

American Psychological Association

Managing your distress in the aftermath of a shooting
Helping your children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting

Child Mind Institute

Going Back to School After a Tragedy
Anxiety Over School Shootings – Finding proactive ways to deal with worried feelings

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

MDHHS Oxford Mental Health Resources

National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)

Parent Guidelines for Helping Youth after the Recent Shooting
Parent Guidelines for Helping Youth after the Recent Shooting SPANISH
Age-Related Reactions to a Traumatic Event
Psychological Impact of the Recent Shooting
Helping Youth after Community Trauma: Tips for Educators

SAMHSA- Resources for responding to needs surrounding the Oxford shooting

National Association of School Psychologists

Talking To Children About Violence Tips for Parents and Teachers
PREPaRE Crisis Support Guidance  Brief Version

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Tips for Survivors: Coping With Grief After a Disaster or Traumatic Event
Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event: Managing Stress
Tips for Survivors: Coping With Grief After Community Violence
Understanding Child Trauma
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline Downloadable Brochure
SAMHSA Resources For Responding to Needs Surrounding the Oxford School Shooting

Resources and Information From Other Partners

Mental Health Considerations After a Traumatic Event. Voices Center for Resilience
Oakland Community Health Network – Mental Health Tips Following a National Tragedy – OCHN
Resources to help Michigan families cope with the Oxford High School shooting – Bridge Magazine/Chalkboard
Psychological First Aid: How You Can Support Well-Being in Disaster Victims
AACAP FFF Threats by Children When are they Serious?

Crisis Resources

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Call 1–800–273–TALK (1–800–273–8255), or, for Spanish, call 1–888–628–9454.The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline available 24/7 to people in crisis, including challenging reactions to disasters.

SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline

Call or text 1–800–985–5990 and receive immediate counseling. This free, confidential, and multilingual crisis support service is available to anyone experiencing psychological distress as a result of a natural or human caused event. People who call and text are connected to trained and caring professionals from crisis counseling centers in the network who can provide immediate confidential counseling, referrals, and other needed support services.

Oakland County Mental Health Crisis Lines :

Oakland County 24-Hour Crisis Helpline 800-231-1127 or the Michigan Crisis and Access Line (MiCAL) 1-844-446-4225 (Call or Text).

Bounce Back Now

Bounce Back Now is a free mobile app available through the Google Play and App Stores. It is intended to help people with coping and resilience after a natural disaster or incident of mass violence. Once users have created an account, they can complete regular questionnaires to assess mental health, access education and coping tools, and put together a plan for improving emotional health. There are also parenting tips for helping children and teens in coping with the emotional impacts of a disaster. 

Hear about a threat? Say Something!

Call 8-555-OK2SAY (855-565-2729)
Text: 652729 (OK2SAY)
Email: [email protected]

OK2SAY  makes it easy to report threats of school violence and other suspect behavior anonymously.

Coming Soon:

Resources to Support Your Kids Following Community Violence or Social Unrest

Resources to Help kids Talk About Race, Racism and Social Justice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Fall 2021 Back to School..but not quite Back to ‘Normal’

September 6, 2021 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

Back-to-school was always a time of excitement and fresh beginnings for most kids and families, even for those who experience a little anxiety or have some trouble adjusting at first. Last year left many of us longing for those good old days and as it finally came to end the families we spoke to were overjoyed to be putting the 2020-2021 school year in the rearview mirror. Many had contacted us with concerns about what might have been lost over the last year including academic, social or mental health gains, but most were also looking ahead to getting a good plan in place for the upcoming school year and feeling somewhat hopeful that fall 2021 might just bring a bit of a return to normal. 

And boy did we need that! Being, raising or educating a kid during a  pandemic had been hard work and was incredibly stressful! With its ongoing isolation; ever-changing routines, expectations, realities, and especially the ongoing fear of what’s coming next. Knowing you could wake up on any given day with everything changed. This relentless uncertainty coupled with over a year of experience with sudden shutdowns, quarantine and the lack of access to peers, teachers and many or most of the activities and supports that we rely on was understandingly taking a heavy toll and for many kids, especially those with existing or emerging anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges was reaching a breaking point. So a fresh start was just what we needed! 

But as summer raged on – those of us floating around in our ‘things will surely be better next year bubbles’ started to feel the air leaking out….As the realization set in that this fall would likely return with some all too familiar challenges related to Covid-19 and perhaps even an additional layer of stressors to weather. 

So if you are visiting us today with the air drained from your back to school balloon…Worried what this school year will bring and how you will support your child and family to get through it…

Know that you are not alone! Kids and families across Michigan and the nation feel your pain and share your concerns. As a visitor to the ACMH website, you likely already recognize that supporting our kids mental health and emotional well being will be the key to their success this school year and are already ahead of the game, seeking out information, resources and support. 

Luckily there are many things you can do to help your child and yourself as you once again navigate a less than normal new school year and a lot of great resources out there to help!

We have been busy collecting and updating a variety of resources from trusted partners for ACMH’s Back to School 2021 Resource Page that address both the all too familiar stressors our kids will continue to face this year as well as, some new challenges we will all want to be especially mindful of as the new school year gets underway. We hope you find some tips, strategies and tools you can use! 

And even if this fall isn’t the new beginning we had all hoped for, we hope that it gets off to a good start for you child and family! If you have questions or need additional information or support please feel free to contact ACMH today.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Spring is in the Air in Michigan….Finally!  

March 9, 2021 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

The sun is shining, the air warming, the snow melting and the grass showing; And March 20 which marks the beginning of the season of renewal and new beginnings is less than 2 weeks away! Its arrival couldn’t come a day too soon for many of us here at ACMH…and probably most of you.

2021 has been off to a busy start at ACMH and information about recent happenings, new activities and family leadership opportunities on the horizon including an upcoming Parent Leadership Series in April can be found here on the ACMH homepage. We had hoped to start 2021 with a clean slate and an open door ready to resume in-person training and events. However due to current conditions related to Covid-19 we have joined other partners in making a decision to continue virtual events and trainings most likely through the remainder of 2021 unless conditions change. We are hopeful that in-person trainings will resume in full force in 2022 and look forward to seeing you all face-to-face once again in the future!

The early days of March have also been a reminder that it has been nearly a year now since we all first became immersed in the world of Covid-19. More is being learned and shared about the pandemic’s toll on the mental health of children, youth, young adults and families in Michigan and across the nation each day and much of it is concerning. A brief discussion of some of those adverse effects and the challenges recent trends in the data may pose for youth and families in our state are highlighted in the most recent edition of the ACMH Newsletter. As data continues to come out it is critically important for us all not only to be aware but more importantly to prepare.

ACMH has also been busy looking toward spring and formulating plans for new activities and events including Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month coming up in May. Details about events and activities planned to celebrate Children’s Mental Health Awareness will be shared here and throughout ACMH’s social Media and networks as they develop. Click here to learn what is planned so far.

Raising awareness about mental health and the real issues facing children, youth and young adults with mental health challenges and their families will be especially important this year. ACMH is looking forward to partnering with youth, families, local and state partners and other family and advocacy organizations to put a spotlight on these issues and work to help inform solutions. If you are interested in learning more or sharing your voice or experience to raise awareness and create positive change contact ACMH today!

We hope 2021 is off to a good start for you and your family and that the warm shine of spring has found its way to your door!

“Spring will come and so will happiness. Hold on. Life will get warmer.”  Anita Krizzan

“Where flowers bloom so does hope.”  Lady Bird Johnson

Filed Under: Uncategorized

COVID-19 Resources to help you keep your family safe, well and supported during this time of crisis…

November 18, 2020 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

The Association for Children’s Mental Health exists to provide help and hope to families by empowering them with the information, resources and support they need especially during times of crisis.  As a statewide family organization we know that supporting our kids & family’s mental health needs can be challenging even in the best of times and access to quality information is essential! Since we do not have health/mental health professionals on staff  to answer many of the questions that are coming our way, we have gathered the a list of links and information that have been shared by trusted resources and community partners and have shared them below. We hope you find information that is helpful as you work to keep yourself & your family safe and supported!

* NEW – Recently Added Resources *

School’s out for summer: How parents can support their kids’ mental health
Great article by Cat Rakowski who talks with two renowned mental health experts about the fallout of Covid-19 and how we can best set our children up for success for the next school year. Click here to check it out.

SAMHSA’s What To do If Your Loved One Is Suicidal – A Guide For Families And Friends

Child Mind Institute Crisis Resources: This week childmind.org will be sharing resources to help parents deal with psychiatric crises. Including what will happen when you get to the ER, and what can (and can’t) the ER do for your child? Similarly, if a child is admitted to in-patient psychiatric treatment, what can you expect, and what is your role? They’ve also shared new resources about schizophrenia, bipolar disorder  & borderline personality disorder in adolescents.   

CDC: COVID-19 Parental Resources Kit – Ensuring Children and Young People’s Social, Emotional, and Mental Well-being which highlights challenges and resources to help by age group.

Youth & Young Adult Resource: Active Minds is a nonprofit organization supporting mental health awareness and education for youth and young adults aged 14–25, working to open up the conversation about mental health and create change in the way mental health is talked about, cared for, and valued. For a limited time, Active Minds has opened up their chapter resources to all students interested in learning how to be there for their peers during these difficult times, transitions and new remote learning situations. They also have a great selection of free self care and crisis resources available. Click here to check it out today!

NCTSN Working Together In the Pandemic Tips for Supporting Youth and Families Involved in the Juvenile Justice System in a Time of Crisis  COVID-19 crisis is impacting every youth and family in some way or another. Youth involved in the juvenile justice system and especially those residing in residential settings are particularly impacted by the pandemic and this guide contains tips and strategies to better support youth and their families.

NCTSN Parent Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope With the Covid-19 Pandemic

FFCMH Education and Mental Health Survey Infographic

MDHHS You Stay Well Page Offering Ongoing Free Virtual Parent Support Groups. Has the pandemic disrupted your family life? Parents across MI are feeling overwhelmed by the extra responsibilities and stress COVID-19 has created.  You’re invited to participate in a virtual support group designed specifically for parents of children up to age 18, hosted by our Stay Well crisis counseling team. To find upcoming dates or register click here.

Mental Heal America’s Young People’s Mental Health in 2020 Report

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                                                       Resources for College Age Students/Young Adults

Should I Attend College in the Fall? Questions for Students with Mental Health Conditions to Consider
Finishing College Classes During COVID-19
Working from Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic
How Young Adults Can Manage Loss of Income During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Active Minds is currently offering free self care and crisis resources. Click here to check it out today!

Back to School Information and Resources

ACMH’s Back to School Resource Page Includes tips for in-person, remote, hybrid learning and much more.
ACMH Back to School Resource Page Links
MI Safe Schools Roadmap
Michigan Alliance for Families Education Covid-19 Resource Page
Michigan Department of Education Covid-19 Information and Resource Page
Back to School Anxiety During Covid-19
CDC- Back to School Planning: Checklists to Guide Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers
Preparing Kids for an Unconventional School Year
MDE Guidance for Return to School For Students With IEPS

Resources to Support Your Kids During Re-Opening

Helping Children Face the Challenges of Re-Opening
Managing Anxiety During Re-OpeningJoey the Kangaroo and Her Coping with Covid Plan
Accessible – Tips for Childcare Providers During Re-Opening
Managing Anxiety During Re-Opening
Teenagers and Re-opening -Tips for Keeping Kids Safe During a Confusing Time
Getting Kids to Work with You During the Coronavirus Crisis – Increasing Cooperation in Kids With Autism

 

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services MDHHS Resources

NEW MDHHS shares new guidance in response to the lifting of the Governor’s Stay Home Stay Safe Order:

  • BH Communication Essential Virtual and F2F Services COVID-19 Guidance
  • BH Communication Infection Control Guidance
  • Resident Freedom of Movement and Visits

MDHHS Online Resources:

  • Michigan.gov/StayWell
  • Stay Home, Stay MIndful’ Website
  • MDHHS Coronavirus Informational Page

MDHHS Phone Resources:

  • MDHHS Covid-19 Hotline: 1-888-535-6136
  • Free, Confidential Emotional Support Counseling  1-888-535-6136 and press 8 when prompted.
  • Michigan Crisis Text Line Text the keyword RESTORE to 741741
  • Michigan PEER Warmline 1-888-PEER-753 (888-733-7753) Available every day from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. for residents with serious mental illness or substance use challenges.

MDHHS Documents:

  • MDHHS – Talking With Kids About COVID
  • MDHHS Family Wellness Guide 
  • MDHHS Mental Health Plan of Service and Due Process Concerns Memo 4.8.20

MDHHS Mental Health Tip Sheets:

  • Helping a Child Recover from the Emotional Toll of the Covid-19 Crisis
  • Helping Children Cope With Stress Tip Sheet
  • Tips for Teens PDF icon
  • Tips for LGBTQ Teens and Young Adults During Covid-19
  • Mindfulness and Stress Resilience Activities 
  • Welcoming Home an Adult Child with SUD during COVID-19
  • Support for Individuals with Substance Use Disorders During Covid-19

Coronavirus and Mental Health Resources

  • Mental Health Resources for Parents and Caregivers During Covid-19
  • Crisis Text Line Coronavirus Information
  • Coping With social Anxiety During Social Distancing – Helping Reluctant Kids Stay Connected
  • We Thrive Inside – Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health Problems in Children During COVID Tipsheet
  • Mental Health Considerations During the Covid-19 Outbreak
  • Coronavirus Anxiety: 10 Expert Coping Strategies
  • How to Care for Yourself While Practicing Physical Distancing
  • Care for Your Coronavirus Anxiety
  • Coronavirus Anxiety: Coping with Stress, Fear, and Worry from HelpGuide
  • Dealing with Uncertainty During the Coronavirus Pandemic HelpGuide
  • Your Feelings About Coronavirus Are Valid
  • Tips For Social Distancing, Quarantine, And Isolation During An Infectious Disease Outbreak 
  • Tips for Managing Anxiety and Stress
  • Parents Chime In – Self Care While Supporting Loved Ones During a Pandemic

Mental Health Crisis Resources 

  • SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline:  Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:  Call 1-800-273-8255 or click here to chat.
  • Crisis Text Line for Free, Confidential Support 24/7 : TEXT “START” TO 741741.
  • For more crisis resources for youth and families click here.

Self Care 

  • Meditations and Calming Exercises Free From Calm.com
  • Parent Support Network – Virtual Parent Support Groups Network for Parents 

Education and Virtual Learning Resources

  • Michigan Alliance for Families COVID 19 Webpage for Families 
  • Connect With Families About Distance Learning, New Routines, etc…
  • Wide Open School
  • Picture Schedules and Learning Agreements for Your Child
  • Coronavirus Roundup: 5 Free Low-Tech Learning Tools
  • Are You CoronaSchooling? Daily Schedule Advice for ADHD Families 
  • Learning at Home: Sample Schedule & Resources for Elementary School Students with ADHD 
  • Online Learning: 8 Tips To Get Your Child Ready
  • MI Statewide Tips for Support Student Wellness
  • Michigan Alliance for Families Special Education & Covid 19 First Steps Video
  • MI Department of Education -Office of Special Education  Guidance IDEA-MARSE_Covid-19 
  • CSTS Helping Homebound Children during COVID-19 Outbreak
  • Covid-19 Educators Guide
  • Michigan Parent Views on Distance Learning Survey – Share Your Voice Today!
  • ProtectMIChild.com Resource to help keep your child safe while online.

Resources for Teens and Young Adults and Those Supporting Them

  • Accessible – Tips for Teens To Care for Their Mental Health 
  • Teen-Young Adult College COVID Information Sheet
  • COVID-19  & Mental Health: Resources for Youth, Young Adults & Their Supporters
  • Raising Healthy Teens Connecting During Covid-19
  • Teenagers and Re-opening -Tips for Keeping Kids Safe During a Confusing Time

Tips and Strategies for Talking To Your Kids About the Coronavirus:

  • How to Explain Coronavirus to a Child with Anxiety
  • Tips for Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
  • Supporting Our Kids During the Covid-19 Crisis
  • Talking With Children About the Coronavirus
  • How to Talk About Coronavirus With Kids
  • Coronavirus Latest Updates and Resources
  • What to Say to Help Kids Feel Calm When the World Feels Fragile
  • Answering Your Young Child’s Questions During the Coronavirus
  • Multilingual Coloring Book for Explaining Coronavirus
  • Talking With Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks

The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health Covid-19 Resources

  • FFCMH Education and Mental Health Survey Infographic
  • NFFCMH Crisis Resources and Hotlines
  • NFFCMH Covid-19 Resources for Parents, Families and Youth
  • National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health’s Pinterest Pages
      • Children’s Mental Health Activities
      • Conversation Starters for Families
      • Coronavirus Resources
      • Distance Learning
      • Family Activities
      • Family Life
      • Feelings
      • Mindfulness and Yoga

Tips for Surviving ‘Home-based Life’ 

  • Stuck at Home? 20 Learning Activities to Keep Kids Busy

Free online educational and play resources:

  • ABCmouse.com
  • ABCYA.com
  • Abney Academic Extension
  • Amazing Educational Resources
  • BrainPOP
  • FunBrain.com
  • GoNoodle.com
  • Highlights Kids
  • Kalamazoo Public Schools Learning Hub
  • Khan Academy
  • Kids Discover
  • Learning A-Z
  • National Geographic Kids
  • Newsela
  • Michigan State University: Educational resources
  • Oxford Owl for Home
  • PBS Kids
  • Phonics Hero
  • ReadWorks.org
  • Scholastic Learn at Home
  • Squiggle Park
  • Starfall.com
  • Storyline Online
  • Switch Zoo
  • TIME for Kids
  • Wonderopolis
  • WordWorld
  • Virtual Field Trips
  • VOOKS

 

Other Resources for Michigan Families

  • Michigan Coronavirus help: Families can get food, cash, internet during crisis.
  • Cable:  Comcast and Charter Spectrum are offering free internet for 60 days for qualifying families.
  • Eviction Help click here.
  • Unemployment Benefits: Click here to apply for unemployment benefits.

Resources to Support Your Child & Family’s Mental Health During the Holidays

Supporting Children & Teens During This Holiday Season National Child Traumatic Stress Center
Child Mind – Holidays During the Pandemic Child Mind Institute
Seven Tips to Get Ready for the Holidays  Children’s Mental Health Ontario
COVID-19 Holiday Season May Be Particularly Hard on Kids: What to Do
Rethinking the Holidays  and Covid 19 and Holiday Stress from On Our Sleeves
5 Ways to Reduce COVID Holiday Disappointment for Kids Understood.org
CDC Guidance for Holidays and Small Gatherings

MDHHS Shares Covid-19 Guidance for Holiday Travel & Gatherings

Check out the ACMH Holiday 2020 Newsletter for more information.

New resources will be added daily so be sure to check back frequently if you do not find what you need or feel free to email us at [email protected].

Stay well and stay safe! The ACMH Family

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

ACMH Fall Forecast

September 16, 2020 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

 

A brand new school year usually brings to mind visions of sharpened pencils, fresh lined paper and a colorful rainbow of perfectly pointed crayons, sticking straight up in an un-tarnished box; A crisp new outfit, or backpack and the squeak of the soles of new shoes on freshly decorated hallways. Who would have ever dreamed we would be entering a school year where the scent of hand sanitizer overpowered that of freshly waxed gym floors – where masks were an essential part of our wardrobe – and the school day might begin in a socially distanced classroom or through a screen at the kitchen table.  

A new school year usually has a familiar feel, look and feel…but this year is different..And even though our back to school experiences might look a little different at any given time depending on our local area, current virus spread, or district or personal decisions, most of us are venturing way into the unknown, leaving many of us feeling stressed, un-equipped and even a little overwhelmed at times. All of this uncertainty and change in school settings, schedules and routines can be stressful for all of us and may be especially hard on our kids who struggle with anxiety or other mental health challenges. Luckily there are things you can do to help your child and yourself as you navigate all of the changes this school year brings and a lot of great resources out there to help!  We have gathered a collection of those resources from trusted partners that address the variety of issues families face this school year have shared them the ACMH  Back to School Resource Page  and also highlighted back to school in the Fall 2020 ACMH Newsletter . We hope you find some information, tips or tools you can use to make the best of this most unusual school year.

Fall also usually brings one other familiar site and ACMH’s biggest educational and networking events of the year, the ACMH Annual Conference. This year’s event was originally scheduled to take place in September at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing, but like many other plans this year- Covid-19 caused us to change our course and adapt…So we shifted gears and began plans to host a week long virtual event later in the fall instead. We quickly realized after a low response from speakers and registrants alike that perhaps many of us are growing a little weary of trying to learn and connect through a screen. So after reflecting on the original purpose of the ACMH conference which was designed as a venue for youth, families and community partners to come together and learn aside one another -we realized that a virtual venue may not fufill that purpose or meet the current needs of our audience and have decided not to move forward with plans for a virtual event at this time. We do, however, plan to continue to our search for other ways and opportunities to ‘Come Together’  so be sure to stay tuned! 

ACMH wishes you and your family all the best as we close the door on this summer like no other!  Summer 2020 was certainly one for the history books filled with more than its share of challenges & uncertainty…but it also brought sunshine, warmth and opportunities for important conversations about race, culture, health, mental health, and the incredible importance of home, family and continued access to needed mental health supports and services. So, let’s keep the gift of those opportunities in mind and hope in our hearts as we enter the fall of 2020 and usher in the 2020-2021 school year.

———————————————————————————————————————————–

This year has certainly been a challenge so we thought we should also share some good news that came from 2020 which was shared by The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health -check it out below!

 

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Youth Peer Support Videos Just Released!

February 6, 2020 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

Youth Peer Support is a part of Michigan’s public mental health system service array intended for middle school and high school aged youth and provided by a young adult with their own lived experience with mental health challenges. This unique and groundbreaking service supports youth in finding hope, understanding that they’re not alone, and build skills to effectively use their voice in their mental health treatment. Youth Peer Support Specialists (YPSSs) strategically share their stories of resiliency with those that they serve to bring about hope and a sense of empowerment.

The Youth Peer Support model and training are provided in partnership between the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Association for Children’s Mental Health (ACMH) by individuals with their own lived experience. To learn more about Youth Peer Support, please visit our informational page here.

Contact your local Community Mental Health to find out if you or your child qualifies for Youth Peer Support!

Thank you to the individuals at Easter Seals Michigan, ASK Family Services, Oakland Family Services, and Summit Pointe who helped us to make this video a reality!

And a very special thank you to Güd Marketing of Lansing, Michigan for creating this video! Click here for more information about our friends at Güd.

 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

ACMH Executive Director, Jane Shank, speaks during Purposeful Pitch Podcast on Caring for Children with Mental Health Concerns

October 15, 2019 by Terri Henrizi Leave a Comment

Purposeful Pitch is a podcast facilitated by Joe DiBenedetto and is focused on initiating positive change and addressing socio-economic challenges facing communities across the country.  Conversations feature school leaders, CEOs of not-for-profit organizations and public policymakers, among others. .Click the link below to hear the Purposeful Pitch podcast and view Joe’s description of the podcast below.

https://anchor.fm/purposeful-pitch/episodes/Caring-for-children-with-mental-health-concerns-e5hlnf

During this episode of Purposeful Pitch, Joe speaks with Jane Shank, ACMH’s executive director of the Association for Children’s Mental Health an organization was founded 30 years ago by two mothers committed to brining help and hope to families of children and youth with severe emotional, behavioral and mental health disorders by ensuring they have access to information and support. What makes the ACMH unique is that it’s led and staffed by parents who have faced the same challenges as those who are seeking support. I encourage anyone with children—or thinking about having children—to listen and learn about existing resources, and that you are not alone.

According to a 2016 study by the University of Michigan, nearly half of the 7.7 million children and teens in the country who are living with at least one treatable mental health disorder—including ADHD or anxiety—do not receive needed treatment from a mental health professional. As the father of one such child (at that time of the report), I understand the importance of seeking support: support not only for the child, but for the parent as well.

I know that I often felt alone and didn’t know where to turn during times when I felt completely inadequate as a parent. Not only does this not make sense—as my wife was going through the same experience I was—but it was a detriment to my daughter. My stubbornness and pride didn’t allow me to seek guidance, whether from friends, family, professionals. Fortunately, my daughter’s self-awareness that she needed help broke through, and we finally sought out the treatment she needed.

What I’ve learned over the past several years is that I’m not the only parent who feels like a failure. Here’s a secret: parenting is hard. I’ve also learned that there are resources available to parents of children dealing with mental health issues.

To discuss learn more about Lambert’s Education & Social Impact practice, contact me at [email protected]

Filed Under: Uncategorized

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Association for Children’s Mental Health

6017 W. St. Joseph Hwy., Suite #200,
Lansing, Michigan 48917
Phone: (517) 372-4016
Fax: (517) 372-4032
Parent Line: (888) ACMH-KID (226-4543)

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  • Home
  • About
    • Meet the ACMH Staff
    • ACMH Board of Directors
    • ACMH Job Opportunities
    • ACMH Annual Reports
  • Get Help
    • Accessing Mental Health Services For My Child
    • Understanding my Child’s Mental Health Challenges
    • Collaborating with the Professionals Working with My Family
    • Navigating
      • Problems at School
      • Navigating the Juvenile Justice System
      • Navigating the Child Welfare System
      • The Mental Health System
    • Finding Resources for Housing, Employment, Childcare, Healthcare and Other Family Supports such as SSI/SSDI
      • Housing
      • Employment
      • Childcare
      • Free or Low Cost Medications
      • Health Care Coverage
    • Military Family Support
    • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Get Information
    • Children’s Mental Health 101
      • I Am Worried About My Child’s Mental Health
      • Possible Red Flags
      • Who can help
      • How to Access Mental Health Services and Supports
      • I Just Found Out My Child Has a Mental Health Disorder
      • Common Diagnosis
      • Treatments & Supports
      • Questions to Ask About Treatment
      • How to be Actively Involved in Your Child’s Treatment
      • What to Expect
      • When Accessing Mental Health Services Using Public Mental Health
      • When Accessing Mental Health Services Using Private Insurance
      • What to Expect if Your Child is in Crisis
      • Mental Health by Age & Stage
      • Additional Children’s Mental Health Resources
    • Ask the Expert
    • ACMH Projects
      • Parent Support Partner
      • Youth Peer Support
      • Family Action Partnership
      • Statewide Family Network
      • Other Projects & Collaborations
    • For Community Agencies
    • Child and Family Services
      • Public Mental Health
      • Juvenile Justice
      • Child Welfare
      • Education
    • Training Opportunities & Calendar
      • ACMH Trainings
      • Community Partner Trainings
      • Youth Mental Health First Aid
      • Youth Peer Support Project
      • Webinars
      • Parent Support Partner (PSP) Training Calendar
      • ACMH Staff Portal
  • Get Support
    • Support for You
    • Family Stories
    • The Manual
    • Online Discussions
    • Find Support in Your Local Community
    • Help To Create a Local Parent Support Group
  • Get Involved
    • Family Leadership Opportunities
    • Importance of Family Voice in Creating Effective Services & Supports
      • Family Driven
      • Youth Guided
    • Share Your Story
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