In this May issue we are highlighting some important events coming up, what's happening around The Arc Mid-South, national news updates, and bringing awareness to Mental Health Awareness Month.
Message from the Executive Director
May is Mental Health Awareness month. It helps remind all of us that it's okay not to feel okay, and that there are resources and people who want to help. In this newsletter you will find resources and support that will help you when needed. Now that this school year has come to an end, having your child at home, maybe nothing to do, or lack of funds, or various reasons can have an adverse effect on your mental state of mind.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 1 in 4 adults—61 million in the United States—have a disability. Many people will experience a disability at some point during their lives. Disabilities limit how a child or adult functions. Adults with disabilities report experiencing frequent mental distress almost 5 times as often as adults without disabilities. Without proper support makes it more difficult.
Some disabilities may be hidden or not easy to see. "All people, no matter where they are on their mental health journey, are deserving of support, resources and fulfillment, and a community that cares. For people experiencing a mental health crisis – you can call The NAMI Helpline they can be reached Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., (PST) by calling 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text "Helpline" to 62640 or email helpline@nami.org. Or you can call the local number- 901-725-0305.
What should I do if I suspect my child has a mental health condition?
If you're concerned about your child's mental health, consult your child's health care provider. Describe the behaviors that concern you. Talk to your child's teacher, close friends, relatives, or other caregivers to see if they've noticed changes in your child's behavior. Share this information with your child's health care provider.
How do health care professionals diagnose mental illness in children?
Mental health conditions in children are diagnosed and treated based on signs and symptoms and how the condition affects a child's daily life. To make a diagnosis, your child's health care provider might recommend that your child be evaluated by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, clinical social worker, psychiatric nurse or other mental health care professional.
“Mental health needs a great deal of understanding and awareness. It’s the final taboo and it needs to be confronted and dealt with.”
Life is to live it and enjoy it! Emotions and mental challenges are part of the journey. So, get on the ship of your life’s adventure and enjoy being alive, remembering that you’re not alone!
Free Event
June 10th at 9am Christ Fellowship Church is hosting our "I Matter" Disability & Mental Health Summit.
This workshop will provide information on:
Obtaining Conservatorship
Special Needs Trust
Guardianship
Able Act (Saving Account)
Power Of Attorney
Planning for the future
Please use the link below to register for this free event! We are looking forward to having you!
Please Join us for our
28th Annual Awards and Benefits Gala
Our 28th Annual Awards and Benefits Gala will be held November 4, 2023, at 5:30pm and The Great Hall & Conference Center in Germantown, TN.
This event will benefit our mission to empower the lives of individuals with disabilities. You can help us by sponsoring this event, donating an auction item, attending the event, sponsoring a table, participating in the auction, donating, and inviting your friends! Thank you for your continued support of The Arc Mid-South. See you there!
Click below to get involved by donating or email events@thearcmidsouth.org with your contact for auction or friends you would like to invite.
What's Happening Around the Arc
L.E.T.S. students celebrating the end of another successful school year!
Our students went to Putt Putt Games and Golf on May 18th. They enjoyed golfing, playing video games, eating, and enjoying each other's company. Our students are taking care of their mental health by getting outside and doing things they enjoy!
We had a great school year and look forward to next year!
Thank you, donors! Your support keeps this classroom running!
Weekend Getaway
The fabulous all exclusive Arc Weekend Getaway was held May 5 -7th at Camp Conquest. Throughout the weekend, campers interacted with farm animals, did arts and crafts, participated in sports, including football, wiffle ball, and ping pong, went fishing, did karaoke, explored the campgrounds, and enjoyed interacting with their peers. One of the favorite pastimes for one of our campers was the sensory room which was equipped with bean bags, hammocks, a T.V. and a light show. They are all waiting anxiously for the next Weekend Getaway.
National News
The Arc's National Convention
November 6-8, 2023
New Orleans, LA
National Convention showcases The Arc’s role as a change agent in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our largest event, Convention features dozens of breakout sessions and general sessions that highlight innovators in the disability community.
Medicaid, Disability Programs Could Face Cuts in Debt Ceiling Negotiations
The future of Medicaid and other programs critical to people with disabilities are on the line amid a Washington standoff over the nation's debt ceiling, advocates say.
End of Public Health Emergency Brings ‘Uncertainty’ For Disability Services
Many of the pandemic-era policies that benefited people with disabilities are set to expire and the implications could be significant, advocates say, touching everything from health care to home and community-based services.
This #MentalHealthMonth, Mental Health America invites you to #LookAroundLookWithin to learn about how your surroundings can impact
mental health. Spending time in nature can lead to positive mental health outcomes, such as improved focus, lower stress, and better mood.
Learn more: mhanational.org/may.
Here at The Arc Mid-South, we are focusing on our mental health in different ways. Some staff turn off all electronic devices after work, enjoy time outside, and spend time with family. It is important to make time for your mental health and give yourself breaks throughout the day to decompress and express your emotions.
Click below to get more information on Memphis mental health resources.
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