YOUR MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE GUIDE
December 18, 2020 – Memo from the Publisher – Community conversation inspired Help & Hope, community commitment made it happen fear, anxiety and hopelessness on board with the idea for stories times you’re likely to get your brought on or exacerbated by of hope. She found three such name in the paper. Kelly observed the pandemic. The bad news is stories that are included herein. that not being able to celebrate or people either don’t know how We also reached out to potential grieve with our family and friends to access those resources or are sponsors to invest in our efforts in those moments has ramped reluctant to do so because of the of gathering of information, up the anxiety quotient for many stigmas attached to mental illness graphic design, printing and families and individuals who are or simply asking for help of any distribution of Help & Hope. already feeling the mental strain kind. We were overwhelmed by the of navigating a global pandemic. Immediately, I thought View commitment we received from In his role of funeral director, he’s WES SMITH Newspaper Group could help a diverse group of businesses, seen that play out – too many bridge the gap between those nonprofit organizations, times this year. His desire to help ast month I was on a who need help and those who government agencies and the people who are trying to cope Lapeer County Community can provide it. I pledged that day education community. Our with it all is why he supported Conversation Zoom that we would do something. Community Partners are featured this effort. Lmeeting where the main topic Within a few days, working with on the back page and our That’s just one story about the was trends and concerns Nancy Boxey, executive director Community Sponsors on pages kind of community commitment regarding the impact of COVID-19 of the Lapeer County Community 17 and 18. My sincere thanks that led to the publication of Help on mental health needs within Foundation, the plan for this Help goes to all of them for making & Hope. Those stories and that Lapeer County. & Hope publication came to be. this Help & Hope publication commitment have inspired and After only a few minutes of The idea was simple: Let people possible. humbled me as I’ve watched our listening to other attendees like know where they can get Help Along the way, I had an remarkable community respond Lauren Emmons of Community and give them Hope that relief enlightening conversation with to so many causes and needs Mental Health and Sheriff Scott can happen. The Help part is in my friend Kelly, the funeral through the years. McKenna, it was obvious to me the form of a directory of services director. Well, that’s one of his View Newspaper Group’s that the officials and nonprofit available. The Hope part is in the hats. He wears several, including commitment to the topic of leaders who were virtually stories of people who themselves that of raconteur. He reminded mental health in our community is gathered that day were gravely were once searching for help, me, that among other things, ongoing. We see this publication concerned about the general found it, and are now coping with the coronavirus pandemic has as a beginning, not an end, to our state of mental health in our their challenges. robbed people of the celebrations reporting on mental health issues, county. The coronavirus pandemic Our team reached out to local and ceremonies that mark the resources and stories of hope. has pushed many of our fellow organizations and agencies to important moments of their Thank you for reading Help & citizens to their mental limit. collect information on services lives. “Hatchin’s, matchin’s and Hope. Please share your feedback The good news is our county offered and how those services dispatchin’s” is how he referred with me, request reprints or a has resources available for can be accessed. We called to some of those moments; the PDF version of this publication by citizens who are struggling to our contributing writer, Krystal same events we refer to in the email at wsmith@mihomepaper. cope with the stress, loneliness, Moralee, who immediately got newspaper business as the three com or by phone at 810-452-2622.
INDEX HELP Resource Directory...... Pages 3-6 A message from CMH CEO...... Page 12 HOPE Support Groups...... Page 7 A message from Hurley Medical Center...... Page 15 Stories of survival Counseling Resources...... Page 8 Get Help now...... Page 17 Pages 10, 11 & 14 Veterans Resources...... Page 9
2 Friday, December 18, 2020 RESOURCE DIRECTORY
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS virtual group activities The Center’s volunteers dedicate thousands of Information & Referral - Resources, services, hours every year to help children. Depending on the 3496 Davison Rd., Lapeer, MI 48446 accessibility, transitions, veterans. amount of direct contact volunteers would like to 810-234-0815 • aa.org Best way for families or individuals to access have with children, volunteer jobs require different services: levels of training. The Center is regularly in need Mission statement: [email protected] or 810-987-9227 for referral to of volunteers for: Family reception/Waiting room; The main purpose and mission of Alcoholics appropriate core services staff. For housing services Marketing & communications; Graphic design; Data Anonymous members are to stay sober and help the Centralized Housing intake line is 810-648-2555. entry. For more info call 810-664-9990 or visit www. others achieve sobriety. caclapeer.org Summary of services offered: CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF Alcoholics Anonymous is an international SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN LAPEER COUNTY COMMUNITY fellowship of men and women who have had MENTAL HEALTH a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self- 700 S. Main St., #211, Lapeer, MI 48446 supporting, multiracial, apolitical, and available 810-664-4646 • ccsem.org 1570 Suncrest Dr., Lapeer, MI 48446 almost everywhere. There are no age or education 810-667-0500 • lapeercmh.org requirements. Membership is open to anyone who Mission statement: Follow us on Facebook for Mental Health Awareness wants to do something about his or her drinking Compelled by the love and teachings of Jesus Christ, and Resources under problem. Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan provides “Lapeer County Community Mental Health” Best way for families or individuals to access compassionate, quality, professional services and Chief Executive Officer: Lauren Emmons, ACSW services: support to people in need. [email protected] Visit www.aa.org or www.lapeercmh.org Summary of services offered: Chief Operating Officer: Tina Close, MA LLP Adoption and foster care, All Saints Soup Kitchen, [email protected] AL-ANON mental and behavior health, counseling, family support services, Hispanic outreach, immigration and Mission statement: al-anon.org refugee services, senior services, Project Hope (pro Recovery: hope; choice; health; fulfilling dreams life ministry). Summary of services offered: Mission statement: Al-Anon Family Group Best way for families or individuals to access Lapeer Community Mental Health provides a wide Headquarters, Inc. is a spiritually based organization services: Call 810-664-4646 variety of Mental Health needs to residents living in that helps the families and friends of alcoholics Volunteer or donation opportunities: Lapeer. Emergency and Crisis services available 24 connect and support each other through meetings, Visit www.ccsem.org/volunteer- hours seven days a week by calling 810-667-0500 information, and shared experiences. opportunities or walk-in during open business hours, 8 a.m. Summary of services offered: Al-Anon is a mutual - 5 p.m. Visit our website for a comprehensive support program for people whose lives have been THE CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER list of programs and services affected by someone else’s drinking. By sharing OF LAPEER COUNTY or visit us on Facebook under common experiences and applying the Al-Anon the tab “services.” principles, families and friends of alcoholics can 15 E. Genesee St., Lapeer, MI 48446 bring positive changes to their individual situations, 810-664-9990 • caclapeer.org Director/Dept. Head: Heather Frayer HELP whether or not the alcoholic admits the existence of 810-664-9990 • [email protected] Continued on a drinking problem or seeks help. page 4 Best way for families or individuals to access services: Mission statement: Visit www.al-anon.org or www.lapeercmh.org The mission of the Child Advocacy Center of Lapeer County is to reduce the trauma to children BLUE WATER CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING/ during the investigation and intervention of alleged DISABILITY NETWORK OF THE THUMB sexual or severe physical abuse through advocacy, education, intervention, and treatment. 550 Lake Dr., Suite C, Lapeer, MI 48446 Summary of services offered: 810-664-5058 • bwcil.org • [email protected] The Child Advocacy Center of Lapeer County coordinates the investigation, prosecution, and Mission statement: DNOTT exists to open paths treatment of the most severe cases of child abuse and remove barriers for people of all disabilities in Lapeer County. As the only child advocacy toward independence, personal choice and quality center in Lapeer County, we serve children of life through resources, options, education and from birth through age 17. support. All services are provided in a nurturing, Summary of services offered: friendly and safe environment at no cost Advocacy - Individual and systemic to a child’s family. Housing Services - Homeless prevention and rapid Best way for families or individuals to rehousing access services: Call 810-664-9990 Independent Living Skills - Currently online classes/ Volunteer or donation opportunities:
Friday, December 18, 2020 3 RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Best way for families or individuals to access HAMILTON COMMUNITY achieve life goals; Homeless Programs for persons services: HEALTH NETWORK referred from Bluewater Center for Independent Call the Region 10 ACCESS line at 1-888-225-4447 Living; Elder Advocacy Programs for seniors who for assistance and to see if you qualify for intake 1570 Suncrest Dr., Lapeer, MI 48446 are being exploited or abused; CARES funding for appointment at Lapeer Community Mental Health. 810-406-4246 • hamiltonchn.org assistance with rent, mortgage, and water bills for If you qualify for an intake; an appointment will be those affected by COVID-19; Q-CARES boxes for scheduled as soon as possible. If you do not qualify Mission statement: people who are directed to quarantine or are self- for an intake, a referral or resources will be offered To be the leader in providing comprehensive, quarantining (delivery of food and/or hygiene supply upon request. quality, community-oriented health care for boxes). Volunteer or donation opportunities: the underserved of Genesee, Lapeer and the Best way for families or individuals to access Donate items such as gently used clothing, surrounding areas. services: antiques, vintage, collectables, and home goods Summary of services offered: Contact Lisa Meyer at 810-667-7034 or to “New To You Consignment” at 286 West Hamilton Community Health Network is part of a [email protected] Nepessing Street, Suite 4, Lapeer, MI 48446, 810- national network of primary care centers (Section 245-7272 (located downtown). Use the account 330E) aimed at improving health services for HURLEY MEDICAL CENTER name “Lapeer County Community Mental Health.” inner city populations. These centers provide Items will be sold and proceeds will be donated to comprehensive care to patients regardless of their One Hurley Plaza, Flint, MI 48503 this account. ability to pay. Services include: Adult primary care, 810-262-9000 • hurleymc.com pediatric primary care, general dentistry, obstetrics LAPEER COUNTY DEPARTMENT & prenatal care, gynecology, behavioral services, Mission statement: OF VETERAN AFFAIRS podiatry services and vision services. To ensure that we are always ready when someone Best way for families or individuals to access faces a serious injury, complex illness, or high 287 W. Nepessing St., Ste. 2, Lapeer, MI 48446 services: Call 810-406-4246 risk condition. Today, tomorrow, and beyond, we 810-667-0256 • lapeercountyweb.org have the dedicated, compassionate professionals, Director/Dept. Head: Pete “Top” Kirley advanced technology, and state-of-the-art facilities 810-245-6829 • [email protected] HISPANIC SERVICE CENTER to meet the complex health needs of our region. 113 N. Almont Ave., Imlay City, MI 48444 Summary of services offered: Mission statement: 810-724-3665 • imlayhsc.org Hurley is a 443-bed premier public teaching hospital The Lapeer County Department of Veterans Affairs Director/Dept. Head: Lourdes Emke recognized as a regional leader in advanced serves the Lapeer Veteran’s Community, including specialized health care. Every year, more than their families with a commitment to excellence. Our Mission statement: 20,000 people choose Hurley for their inpatient Department provides services that ensure access to To improve the lives of individuals of all ethnicities hospital care and our Emergency Department federal, state and local resources and benefits due in the community by providing value-added handles over 80,000 annual emergency cases. to veterans and their families with dedication and resources and services. Best way for families or individuals to access focus towards outcome based results. Summary of services offered: services: Summary of services offered: Imlay City Hispanic Service Center provides social, Call 810-262-9000 or visit www.hurleymc.com Free transportation to and from VA Medical Centers health, immigration, cultural and advocacy services Volunteer or donation opportunities: located in Ann Arbor, Detroit and Saginaw to include to ALL Lapeer County residents. Visit www.hurleyfoundation.org/volunteer clinics in Flint & Yale. Request for discharge papers Best way for families or individuals to access (DD214), military/medical records. Assist in filling services: Call 810-724-3665 KISS (KEEPING INDEPENDENT out disability claims. Emergency relief through two Volunteer or donation opportunities: SENIORS SAFE) PROGRAM different funds. Visit www.imlayhsc.org for a list of donation 225 E. Fifth St., Ste. 200, Flint, MI 48502 Best way for families or individuals to access requests and more info. services: 1-855-561-5477 • imlayhsc.org Call and make an appointment to come visit with HUMAN DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION one of the accredited service officers, to include Mission statement: Keeping Independent Seniors Field Service Officers from the VVA (Vietnam 1559 Imlay City Rd. Lapeer, MI 48446 SAFE. Veterans of America) and the VFW (Veterans of 810-667-7034 • hdc-caro.org Summary of services offered: Foreign Wars). Director/Dept. Head: Lori Offenbecher The KISS program is a free telephone reassurance Volunteer or donation opportunities: 989-673-4121 • [email protected] program for older adults who live independently Volunteer Drivers Program, donate gas cards, bus and want to feel safer and more secure. The KISS tokens and/or monetary amounts. Mission statement: program volunteers help eliminate some fears and Restoring hope by helping people and saving lives. dangers that living independently can entail. Summary of services offered: Participants are provided with a telephone number Early Head Start--home visiting services for families to call Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and with pregnant women and children birth to three; Noon. Those who cannot call the office because Self-Sufficiency Program for people looking to of limited calls, disabilities, dementia, etc. will be
4 Friday, December 18, 2020 RESOURCE DIRECTORY
contacted with a phone call. Special arrangements LAPEER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT LAPEER COUNTY SENIOR PROGRAMS may be made for participants that need weekend coverage. The call lets the KISS volunteers know 1800 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer, MI 48446 1800 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer, MI 48446 that everything is ok. If any participant fails to call 810-667-0448 •lapeercountyweb.org 810-245-5866 or does not answer the phone, it alerts the KISS Director/ Dept. Head: Kathy Haskins Director/Dept. Head: Paul Walker volunteers that there may be a problem. Steps are 810-245-5866 • [email protected] then taken to contact that person to determine if Mission statement: there is a problem. If a person cannot be contacted Dedicated to protecting and promoting the health of Mission statement: further steps are taken. Lapeer County LCSP provides programs designed to help Best way for families or individuals to access Summary of services offered: seniors remain in their home and maintain their services: The Lapeer County Health Department is dedicated independence. Call 1-855-561-5477. to protecting and promoting the health of Lapeer Summary of services offered: Those eligible must be a Genesee, Lapeer or County. In order to do that the department has a Home Delivered Meals, In-Home Services. Shiawassee county resident, 60 years or older and number of divisions including: Environmental Health Best way for families or individuals to access willing to notify the KISS office when away from (EH), Public Health Nursing, Senior Programs, Public services: Call 810 245 5866. home. Health Emergency Preparedness, and Alcohol Information and Counseling Center (AICC). Well- LOVE, INC. (IN THE NAME OF CHRIST) LAPEER AREA CITIZENS AGAINST known services within the Public Nursing Division DOMESTIC ASSAULT (LACADA) include immunization clinics and WIC (Women, 1680-B North Lapeer Rd., Lapeer, MI 48446 Infants and Children). Well-known services within 810-245-2414 • loveinc.org P.O. Box 356, Lapeer, MI 48446 the Senior Programs including: in-home meal Business line: 810-667-4193 services and in-home care services. Mission statement: Help line: 810-667-4175 Best way for families or individuals to access To mobilize local churches to transform lives and [email protected] • lacada.org services: Contact 810-667-0448 communities in the Name of Christ. Director/Dept. Head: Tracey Walker Summary of services offered: 810-667-4193 • [email protected] LAPEER COUNTY Coordinates services for the needy of Lapeer INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT County. Love, INC. works closely with churches and Mission statement: government and private organizations. To provide safe shelter, independence, 1996 W. Oregon St., Lapeer MI 48446 Best way for families or individuals to access empowerment and supportive services to survivors 810-664-5917 • lapeerisd.org services: Contact Love, INC at 810-245-2414. of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking Director/Dept. Head: Steven A. Zott, Superintendent Volunteer or donation opportunities: while seeking to end violence against individuals 810-245-3964 • [email protected] Call 810-245-2414. and their families through promoting social change, community education and public awareness in our Mission statement: community. To promote, initiate, and implement educational and McLAREN LAPEER REGION HOSPITAL Summary of services offered: support services for its constituent local districts; 1375 N. Main St., Lapeer, MI 48446 LACADA provides free and confidential support to engage in cooperative programs with other entities; 810-667-5500 • mclaren.org live a life free from violence. Survivors of Domestic and plan, implement, and carry-out programs that Violence and Sexual Assault often feel alone and promote the educational, career, and service needs Mission statement: McLaren Health Care will be there is nowhere to turn. LACADA strives to of the LCISD service area. the best value in health care as defined by quality empower survivors in regaining control in their lives Summary of services offered: outcomes and cost. through crisis intervention, advocacy, and support Lapeer ISD offers mental health services to Summary of services offered: McLaren Health services. students in each public school district and charter in Care, headquartered in Grand Blanc, Michigan, is Best way for families or individuals to access Lapeer County. Through a grant from the Michigan a $6 billion, fully integrated health care delivery services: Call 810-667-4175. Department of Education and Michigan Department system committed to quality, evidence-based Volunteer or donation opportunities: of Health and Human Services, professional mental patient care and cost efficiency. The McLaren A Help Line/ Shelter Attendant Volunteer will health therapists provide individual and group system includes 15 hospitals in Michigan and Ohio, complete a 40 hour training. These volunteers are therapy to students with mental health needs. ambulatory surgery centers, imaging centers, a cross trained to provide crisis intervention, advocacy, Some examples of issues addressed include, grief, 490-member employed primary and specialty care education and practical assistance to survivors of anxiety, ADHD, bullying, depression, friendships, physician network, commercial and Medicaid HMOs domestic violence and sexual assault either in the divorce, etc. covering more than 588,000 lives in Michigan shelter or on the phone. Flexible day, evening and Best way for families or individuals to access and Indiana, home health, infusion and hospice overnight shifts are available. Volunteers are asked services: Contact your child’s building principal. providers, pharmacy services, a clinical laboratory to make a minimum 4 hour per week commitment. network and a wholly owned medical malpractice Contact 810-667-4193 to learn more. insurance company. McLaren operates Michigan’s largest network of cancer centers and providers,
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Friday, December 18, 2020 5 RESOURCE DIRECTORY
anchored by the Karmanos Cancer Institute, one SUICIDE PREVENTION NETWORK of only 51 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the U.S. Located within Lapeer County Community Mental McLaren has 28,000 full-, part-time and contracted Health (CMH) employees and more than 90,000 network providers 1570 Suncrest Dr., Lapeer, MI 48446 throughout Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. 810-667-0500 Best way for families or individuals to access National Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) services: Call 810-667-5500 or visit lapeercmh.org • suicidepreventionlifeline.org www.mclaren.org Volunteer or donation opportunities: Various Mission statement: volunteer opportunities are available at our many Help is available for people who feel hopeless. locations across Michigan, so you can directly Summary of services offered: help the people in your own community. Whether Suicide prevention lifeline and walk-in help for those you’d like to have direct patient and family contact needing it is available at CMH 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or would prefer to work in a more behind-the- Monday to Friday. scenes role, your time and talents are needed and Members of the Suicide Prevention Network appreciated. are available for presentations to community Visit www.mclaren.org/main/volunteer-at-mclaren- agencies or groups. To find out more about suicide health-care to learn more. prevention or to schedule a speaker, please contact Betsy Felton, Tim Campbell or Stephanie Rudow at MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH Lapeer County CMH 810-667-0500. AND HUMAN SERVICES LAPEER OFFICE Best way for families or individuals to access services: 1505 Suncrest Drive, Lapeer, MI 48446 Contact CMH at 810-667-0500 or the National 810-667-0800 • michigan.gov/mdhhs Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) (Press 2 for facebook.com/michiganhhs Spanish). twitter.com/MichiganHHS Volunteer or donation opportunities: The Lapeer County Suicide Prevention Network Summary of services offered: meets the 2nd Friday of each month at Lapeer Health care, food assistance, cash assistance, state County Community Mental Health, 1570 Suncrest emergency relief, child care. Drive, Lapeer. Best way for families or individuals to access Summary of services offered: services: 350 acres with over six miles of trails to explore Apply for benefits/manage case/explore resources: through woods, wetlands, prairie, fields, and the UNITED WAY OF LAPEER COUNTY www.michigan.gov/MIBridges. seven glacial lakes that give the nature center its Volunteer or donation opportunities: name. Trails and visitor center is available to the 3333 John Conley Dr., Ste. 102, Lapeer, MI 48446 Email Therese Mancini-Community Resource public Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 810-667-2912 • unitedwaylapeer.org Coordinator at [email protected]. Seven Ponds members may access the trails dawn facebook.com/unitedwaylapeercounty/ to dusk every day of the year. Director/Dept. Head: Kim Hebberd SEVEN PONDS NATURE CENTER Best way for families or individuals to access 810-895-1596 • 810-667-2912 [email protected] 3854 Crawford Rd., Dryden MI 48428 services: 810-796-3200 • sevenponds.org Website, social media, call, or stop by for a visit. Volunteer or donation opportunities: Mission statement: facebook.com/SevenPondsNatureCenter To unite people, develop resources and meet instagram.com/sevenpondsnaturecenter With a small staff, Seven Ponds has greatly benefitted from the actions of thousands of community needs. Director/Dept. Head: Daryl Bernard, Executive Director Summary of services offered: 810-796-3200 • [email protected] dedicated volunteers over the past five decades - volunteers are always needed for trail work, invasive United Way is providing up to 2 months assistance with rent and all utilities. Mission statement: plant removal, garden maintenance, animal care, and more. As a nonprofit organization, Seven Ponds Best way for families or individuals to access The mission of Seven Ponds Nature Center is to services: conserve the natural environment of Seven Ponds is fully dependent on the generous financial support of our members, donors, and the community. Call 810-667-2912 to make an appointment. as a sanctuary for native plants and animals, as a Volunteer or donation opportunities: living classroom for environmental education, and as For volunteer or donation opportunities please call a peaceful retreat for its visitors. 810-667-2912 or visit the website at www.unitedwaylapeer.org.
6 Friday, December 18, 2020 SUPPORT GROUPS
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT GROUP Similarities and connections are discovered when HEARTLAND HOSPICE (LAPEER) Survivors come together to share their experiences. Grief Support through Heartland Hospice Wednesdays, 5 – 6 p.m. 10 a.m. Third Friday LACADA Outreach Lapeer Market Place 1127 Clark Rd., Lapeer 700 S. Main St. Ste. 209, Lapeer 810-667-4175 888-427-6818 SUICIDE SURVIVOR GROUP NEW TOMORROWS GRIEF SUPPORT For individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide. Free ongoing grief education and support for anyone who This group provides families a safe place to talk about has experienced the loss of a loved one. their loss, to grieve and begin to heal. Call 810-496-8625 for next schedules series and times. 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month, 6 – 7:30 pm St. Matthew’s Church, Upstairs Conference Room 431 N. Court Street, Lapeer Tim Campbell, LPC 810-338-6315 | [email protected]
GRIEF SHARE For those who have lost a loved one. Senior Center Imlay City in the Lambsteel Building on Third Street Pre-register by calling Tracy at 810-724-6030 or Ginger at 810-724-5772
Resources provided by Lapeer County Community Mental Health
FOOD PANTRIES:
LAPEER COUNTY — Due to layoffs, Food support can be found at: referral from Love INC at 810-245-2414. reduced hours at work and other situations • St. Paul Lutheran (200 N. Cedar St., Imlay • Trinity United Methodist Church (1340 N. due to COVID-19 that may impact the ability City) Pantry opens on Mondays 4-5:30 Main St., Lapeer). Soup kitchen take-out of people to purchase groceries, another p.m. Drive-up meals available while is offered Mondays from 4-5 p.m. stress in many households this year has supplies last. • Manna Ministries Almont Vineyard (3835 been providing nutritious food to feed • First Presbyterian Church (433 N. Van Dyke Road, Almont) Thursdays from individuals and families. But there is help Calhoun, Lapeer) — drive-up takeout 3-5 p.m. for drive-thru pantry. available. meals Thursdays at 4-5 p.m. For Food • Linked Hearts Emergency Food Pantry Numerous Pantry, call 810-664-8565. (3595 E. Main St. Dryden). Call 810-796- churches in • Grace Episcopal Church (735 W. 3407 for days and times. Lapeer County Nepessing St., Lapeer) food pantry only, • Gateway Assembly of God (2796 S. Van provide soup call church office at 810-664-2841 to set Dyke, Imlay Township). Emergency drive- kitchens and up an appointment. thru giveaway from 10 a.m. to noon on food pantries to • St. Paul Lutheran (90 Millville St., Lapeer) Jan. 9; free grocery giveaway from 10 offer assistance Soup kitchen serves drive-up meals a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 6 while supplies last. to people in Fridays at 4 p.m. Food pantry is Thursday need. from 1-3 p.m., but people must first get a
Friday, December 18, 2020 7 COUNSELING
ACTS CHRISTIAN COUNSELING LIFE RESOURCE CENTER: SUSAN LOVELETTE TIM CAMPBELL MA, LPC, BCPCC Counseling services, psychological testing, driver’s license evaluations, Full scale services. court ordered assessment. All Medicaid plans, sliding scale. Most private pay insurances, all Medicaid plans, sliding fee scale, payment expected at appointment. 431 N. Court, SW 203, Lapeer | 810-338-6315 4070 Huron St., SW A, North Branch | 810-270-2323 christiancounselinglapeer.com actschristiancounseling.com LIST PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN Various types of counseling/therapy and offers a nurse practitioner for Master level social worker, psychiatrist services offered off site, adults stabilizing medications short term only. Booking is one month out. only, Clinton Township. Most private insurance and only McLaren, Meridian, Molina, and BC Complete for Medicaid plans, no Most private insurance plans, Medicaid plans, sliding fee offered. sliding fee scale. 700 S. Main St. Sw. 211, Lapeer | 810-664-4646 | ccsem.org 624 W. Nepessing St SW 300, Lapeer | 810-667-4500 listpsych.com CONCEPTS IN COUNSELING Various types of counseling, no psychiatrist offered. DR. MATHEWS PSYCHIATRIST | DR. AILLS PSYCHIATRIST Most private insurance plans, all Medicaid plans accepted, sliding fee scale. No treatment of ADD or ADHD, Adults only except for ages 12 and over. 608 Fox St., Lapeer | 810-538-0229 No Medicaid or Medicaid/Medicare combination. Medicare or McLaren Medicaid. Most private insurance. No sliding fee scale. DELTA FAMILY CLINIC SOUTH 4448 Oakbridge Dr. Ste A, Flint | 810- 230-7905 Full scale services including eating disorders and a nurse practitioner for prescribing. OAKLAND PSYCHOLOGICAL CLINIC Most Medicaid plans and most private plans, no sliding fee scale. Psychiatrist available for ages 3 and up. Counseling for all ages, family, 1309 S. Linden Rd. Suite C, Flint | 810-630-1152 marriage and older adults. Most assessments. deltafamilyclinicsouth.com No Medicaid plans, however most private pay accepted, no sliding fee scale, but ask about payment plan. INTIMATE WELLNESS 1455 S. Lapeer Rd., Suite 75 North, Lake Orion | 248-393-5555 Adults 18 and over, sexual concerns, complicated grief and trauma. oakpsych.com Most Medicaid plans and most private plans, no slide fee. 350 N. Court St., Ste. 208, Lapeer | 810-272-9036 RECOVERY PATHWAYS: DR. HEASLEY PSYCHIATRIST Adults only, no children. Treatment for addictions and psychiatry. iwcmich.com | [email protected] Most private insurances, Medicaid, Healthy MI Plan, Medicare, CHIP and VA are accepted. Funding Assistance/Discounts. JOURNEY THERAPY CENTER 380 Mill St., Ortonville | 248-961-3088 Ages 2-15 Behavior Analysis-autism. recoverypathwaysllc.com Medicaid, most private pay, sliding fee. 1100 W. Newark Rd., Lapeer | 810-358-0373 journeytherapycenter.com LAPEER COUNSELING CENTER: DR. DANIEL J. KACHMAN, ED. D., P.C. Full scale counseling services. Most private pay insurances and Medicaid accepted. 700 S. Main St., Sw. 208, Lapeer | 810-664-4363 lapeercounselingcenter.com
LAPEER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Outpatient treatment for people with substance abuse and addictions problems. Most insurance plans, sliding fee scale. 1800 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer | 810-667-0243 lapeercountyweb.org click on Health Department
Resources provided by Lapeer County Community Mental Health
8 Friday, December 18, 2020 MOST COMMONLY USED RESOURCES FOR VETERANS VA RESOURCES www.pentagonfoundation.org. Detroit VAMC: 313-576-1580 Contact 800- 558-9224. Ann Arbor VAMC: 734-845-5058 Veteran Health Administration (VHA): VA Saginaw VAMC: 989-497-2500 ext. 11773 medical centers and CBOC’s HUD-VASH, Vet The American Legion Patriot Fund: up to Battle Creek VAMC: 269-966-5600 Centers $500, one time only. Requires an honorable ext. 33148 discharge and an unforeseen emergency. Veteran Benefits Administration (VBA): Iron Mountain VAMC: 906-774-3300 Contact Gary Tanner at gtanner364@gmail. Compensation and Pension, Education ext. 32773 com. Benefits, VOC Rehab. Support Services for Veteran Families Local Veterans Service Organization: National Cemetery Administration (NCA): (SSVF): Search by county to find local AMVETS, VVA, Marine Corps League, DAV, Burial and memorial benefits www.va.gov providers. Eviction/ Homeless/ Social Work. VFW, Purple Heart, and American Legion. Multiple other programs. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/ FINANCIAL RESOURCE FOR VETERANS COUNSELING/ADVISING Project Brotherhood Resolve: Located MVAA- Michigan Veterans Trust Fund: in Lapeer County- Founded to address the Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 up to $1500 for local approval (State Board growing problem of Veteran Homelessness reviews all appeals and claims over 1500). and Veteran Suicide through intervention: Requires at least 180 days of active duty LEGAL ISSUES projectbrotherhoodresolve.org/ service during wartime and unforeseen State Side Legal: Legal help for military emergency. www.michiganveterans.com members, Veterans, and their families FEDERAL BENEFITS FOR “find a benefits counselor” or by calling one www.statesidelegal.org VETERANS, DEPENDENTS AND 1-800-MICH-VET. 1-800-624-4838 SURVIVORS University of Michigan Legal Clinic: Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund Washtenaw County only 734-763-2798 Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents (FWSF): Post 9/11, requires honorable and Survivors Online Booklet: discharge (or currently serving honorably) and Lakeshore Legal Aid: 888-783-8190 https://www.michiganveterans.com/servlet/ an unforeseen emergency. www.FWSF.org www.lakeshorelegalaid.-org servlet.FileDownload?file= 00Pt000000KvKmhEAF 800-397-3729 VA Claim Legal Assistance: Legal help for Forgotten Eagles of Michigan: up to $500. veterans, PLLC – 800-693-4800 www.legalhelpforveterans.com MICHIGAN MILITARY VETERANS All requests must come from a qualified BSO BENEFITS AND SERVICES or VA officer. www.forgotteneagles.org HOUSING https://www.michiganveterans.com/servlet/ Michigan Bikers Helping Veterans: National Call Center for Homeless servlet.FileDownload?file= requires an honorable discharge, unforeseen 00Pt000000KvKo5EAF emergency. Must complete entire application Veterans: 877-424-3838 (leave no blanks). www.supportmiveterans.org VA HUD-VASH/ Healthcare of Homeless VETERAN TREATMENT Pentagon Foundation: must have deployed Veterans (HCHV): Must have VA health care. COURT Qualify on individual basis. to OEF/OIF, honorable discharge, and https://courts.michigan.gov/administration/ unforeseen emergency. Can only receive one admin/op/problem-solving-courts/pages/ per household. Applications found online, veterans-treatment-court.aspx
Resources provided by Lapeer County Community Mental Health
Friday, December 18, 2020 9 A decade into recovery, now it’s his time to help others BY KRYSTAL MORALEE another daughter and grandpa to a hard to deny he was abusing alcohol. Contributing Writer granddaughter. He’s improved his That legal trouble, he said, is the only health, built his career, and settled reason he chose to stop. It wasn’t rad Chayka spent a solid 15 in for the long haul as a recovering easy to make it stick, though. He years of his life drinking and alcoholic. Temptation to relapse, he gives a lot of credit to the support he getting high, being hungover, said, isn’t strong. received from his parents, the church Bor thinking about getting drunk or “It’s very rare that I even think about and his original AA sponsor, Matt high. He married at age 23, and it only it and I think it’s because I stay in Kalahar. lasted a year and a half. He essentially contact with my AA program,” he “He never gave up on me,” said abandoned his oldest daughter for said. “I see what it’s doing to people Chayka. “He was always there to say the first 10 years of her life. He still. That’s the importance of going to ‘hey, try again.’” spent a decade without a driver’s meetings, so you don’t forget.” Chayka focused on his sobriety, license. He filed bankruptcy, became In fact, he serves as chairperson on health and recovering the life he had very overweight, trashed his credit, Wednesday nights, helping others to messed up by looking inward and withdrew from friends and family, get on the path to recovery. taking responsibility for what had and lost everything he had, and still, Chayka said he was probably around occurred, and while it has been a long it took five years of going on and off 16 when he started drinking and 13-year process so far, he is proud of the wagon before he finally made the experimenting with drugs. He was what he’s accomplished and hopes decision, on Aug. 12, 2007, to follow born and raised in the Rochester and his story will inspire others to believe the Alcoholics Anonymous program to Auburn Hills area, and said looking in themselves, because it can be the letter, and that combined with his back, he was probably vying for his overcome. faith and determination has been his parents’ attention as he repeatedly “For a while I couldn’t put it all salvation. found trouble to get into. Times were together, but things are really good These days at 51 Chayka’s life different as well, he said. If the police now, for sure,” he said. has done a complete turn. He has pulled them over and they were A positive change, Chayka said, reconnected with his oldest daughter, drinking, they would just dump out happens when you evaluate where remarried, became a father to their beer and send you are turning for solace. Physically, them on their way. mentally, and spiritually unhealthy, Eventually, he Chayka turned to fitness, AA, and God, started getting in and completely turned his life around. trouble with the law. He learned to trust himself and others Three drunken driving again and went from not wanting to arrests later, it was live to experiencing a full, happy, and healthy life.
If Brad’s story sounds familiar, find Help & Hope with Alcoholics Anonymous by calling 810-234-0815 or visiting aa.org.
10 Friday, December 18, 2020 She FOUND a new path FORWARD BY KRYSTAL MORALEE As the holidays approached, Mitchell Health (CMH) that she was able to Contributing Writer became so distraught, she convinced connect with a therapist, pour her herself that her children would be heart out, and leave her chaos behind. odependency is an insidious better off without her in their lives, CMH, she said, helped her help thing. It causes a person to and she attempted to take her own herself, and she became empowered believe that their only value is life. through her own achievements. Ctied to another person – that they are “It was the first time in my Unfortunately, that has incited unworthy on their own. It feeds into life that I felt I wouldn’t her ex to come after her, but unhealthy patterns and dysfunctional be able to provide for she is prevailing. relationships, which perpetuates the my kids,” she said. “I “The more I succeed, the cycle of the codependent person thought, ‘what kind of more he tries to sabotage, not feeling like enough. It is also a mother am I?’” but I come out every time, difficult cycle to break because a But Mitchell came to standing on the top of the codependent’s comfort zone is lodged a better understanding mountain, smiling. Me and firmly in that dysfunction. in the hospital, and my boys,” she said. “I’m very Misty Mitchell, 32, of Lapeer is while the doctor confident with myself now, experiencing life on the other side of was hesitant to where before I didn’t see my self- codependency, and she is happier than release her worth.” ever. to spend Mitchell is advancing in her career “I have come a long way,” she said. and working toward building a Mitchell and her ex had been house. She has also developed together for about seven years when Christmas healthy coping mechanisms they broke up, and it hit her hard. She with her which help her when her left the abusive relationship and was kids, emotions start tipping toward sheltered at LACADA (Lapeer Area she was anxiety. Citizens Against Domestic Assault) convinced that because she “Before, I went from A to Z really with her two children for more than a had survived the attempt, she quick,” she said, adding that she is month. was meant to be here with her now better able to ground herself “With the change of the breakup, I children, and she was able to go when things get tense. That, she said, realized I was codependent,” she said. home in time to celebrate the holidays is making a huge difference in her life. “At my lowest moment, I thought I – and a new path forward in her life. “I love it,” she said. “It’s so much was not going to be able to provide for It was through her therapy sessions better.” my kids for Christmas in 2018.” at Lapeer County Community Mental
If Misty’s story sounds familiar, find Help & Hope by contacting the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or Lapeer County Community Mental Health at 810-667-0500 or Lapeer Area Citizens Against Domestic Assault (LACADA) at 810-667-4175.
Friday, December 18, 2020 11 FOCUS ON Resilience
LAUREN EMMONS, toward resilience. Mental health • Work at being more optimistic. CEO professionals see resilience as an inner This is more than just looking at the Lauren Emmons Lapeer County CMH strength that drives an individual to cope bright side; it is tapping into your t is in the trying times, times like instead of fall apart. Individuals with strengths to take positive action and these, in the middle of a global strong resilience are able to rise above at the same time finding ways to pandemic that fatigue starts to set the circumstances at hand and maintain overcome your weaknesses. Iin. Everyone seems to be reaching their their cool in the difficult situations. • Approach life with a sense of wits’ end. This is when we need to draw These individuals still feel the stress humor. Stepping back and finding together as a community and focus on and anxieties of the situation but have the inherent humor in the frustrations resilience. developed ways to better handle their of life reduces stress. This empowers What is community resilience? Could reactions to the crisis. In the words you to bond with others especially community resilience be the frontline of Dr. Mollie Marti, “Resilience is not when times are tough. Simply put, heroes and essential workers who show about gritting your teeth and getting laugh more. through or sucking it up. Resilience is up to work every day. Or the volunteers • Engage in physical exercise. who donate their time to help others. about honoring our need to ask for and receive help. It is important to remember Physical exercise causes the release Maybe it’s the kind gesture extended by of natural endorphins in your body. a neighbor or people patiently waiting in that you are not going it alone. There is always someone who can help and there These endorphins are the natural line when the store is busy. Perhaps it’s chemicals that help us feel energized simply wearing a mask and practicing is always hope.” How does an individual develop and can assist in strengthening a physical distancing. In the midst of positive outlook. Taking a walk, the current pandemic, community resilience? The following is a list of ways to develop resilience. engaging in sports, playing outside resilience is the sum of all of the above. with your children, hiking, riding a Community resilience is everyone • Don’t be afraid to seek help. bike or joining a gym are ways to pitching in, using the resources available, Recognizing that you need help is increase physical exercise. doing their part and coming together in showing strength not weakness. a common cause to make a difference. Reach out to friends or family for • Exercise your mind. Be a lifelong It’s what makes us capable of bouncing support. Talk to your pastor or priest. learner. Learn something just for back and making our community a better Seek professional help if you need the sake of learning. Read about place for everyone. assistance that your regular support something you find interesting, A resilient community is made up systems cannot provide. watch a program about an interesting of individuals with strong tendencies topic, engage in a new crafting Continues on next pg
12 Friday, December 18, 2020 activity, learn to play a new game • Tap into your inner courage. making a decision to engage in with friends or family, research Keep in mind that courage is not something productive. Help a a topic of interest, or help your the absence of fear; it’s deciding to neighbor, clean your house, make a children with homework. face the fear and taking action while nice meal for your family, play with • Tune into your spiritual life. still being afraid. Being courageous your children, do your job to best Engaging in your spiritual life develops bravery which is what of your ability, or volunteer in your plays an important role in coping builds resilience. community. with everyday life as well as the • Approach life with a sense • Develop a healthy attitude. Look more challenging times in life. of purpose. Having a sense of at the difficulties you are facing as You can practice spirituality using purpose is what gets you out of bed challenges instead of roadblocks. prayer, demonstrating gratitude, in the morning. Developing purpose This simple change in attitude reading scriptures, reading other does not have to involve something empowers you to take action to inspirational words, or being a part big or extravagant. It can be simply solve problems and moves you of a group that shares beliefs similar away from feeling like a victim. to yours. We are a resilient community. We • Engage in friendship. Friendship simply need to move forward and exists at various levels. continue to practice resilience. Friendship includes friends In summary here is a quote who you have known for from Dr. Brene’ Brown. an extended period of “Somehow we’ve come time who know you to equate success with deeply, individuals not needing anyone. that you know Many of us are willing more casually on to extend a helping a social level, hand, but we’re people you have very reluctant to recently met, reach out for help or the stranger when we need it who has ourselves. It’s as if demonstrated we’ve divided the an act of world into ‘those kindness. Keep who offer help” in contact with and “those who your friends or need help.’ The simply show truth is that we are kindness to a both.” stranger.
Friday, December 18, 2020 13 survivalHer story of serves as a warning and inspiration BY KRYSTAL MORALEE her partner of two decades had tried to murder at her side. Contributing Writer her, but she was alive. She had survived. Her “I’m continuing to recover and have moved on friend had survived. It was time to heal. to a new relationship. There are challenges to tephanie Bretzloff’s pain was made public, Bretzloff said her parents took her and her that, including trust. Yet, I’m continuing to face as her horrific story was repeated over and children in, and they got her through as she life with an open heart. I value every moment I over on the news channels. She didn’t need began the healing process. She leaned on family have. The things that I thought were bad before, Sthe record to remember, though. The event is and friends, and her children took special care of just aren’t. We only have this one life. Take seared into her mind in excruciating detail. her, getting her water when she needed it and the time to enjoy that beautiful blue sky, slight She had been with Michael Quigley for 20 breeze, and the sun beating on your face. Hug years. The couple had four children together. I’m continuing to recover and have those that are close and dear to you. Let go He had been mentally abusive at times but had of those that aren’t kind to you. They truly are never hurt her physically. That was about to “moved on to a new relationship. not. Sometimes you can’t save someone from change. There are challenges to that, themselves and they have to fall hard in order to It was three years ago, Nov. 14, 2017, and learn. Everyone has a path to walk in life and not Bretzloff was babysitting a friend’s daughter. including trust. Yet, I’m continuing to face life with an open heart. I value everyone is meant to stay. If something doesn’t When her friend returned home from work, she fit, that’s theirs to figure out. It’s their path, not took his daughter to his home, but there was a every moment I have. yours,” she said. “Always remember, no one knock at the door. It was Quigley, who forced Stephanie Bretzloff” owns you and you don’t own anyone. Control his way in and then grabbed her and shot her in over another person is not part of any healthy the head. providing comfort. relationship. You and your partner still have to be Bretzloff remembers her body feeling like it The incident took a physical toll on Bretzloff. able to live your own lives. Being a team is nice, was on fire, with a zapping sensation and for a Bullet fragments were removed from her head but if you’re not happy and things aren’t right, moment she thought he was tasing her until she and ear canal, and some remain. The right side then it becomes time to move on. Life truly is realized blood was squirting out of her head. She of her face was left paralyzed and she suffers too short. You really never know when your time tried to crawl to her phone, and he slammed her intense headaches and post-traumatic stress. is going to come. Use your heart and be nice to hand onto the table and took the phone from And still, every day, she is healing, through the person next to you. You really never know her, slammed the gun into her head and pulled love and forgiveness, with her family and friends what they are going through silently.” the trigger again to finish her off. This time, there was nothing but a click. On the floor and going cold and numb, Bretzloff was certain she was dying. She saw her friend’s If Stephanie’s story daughter watching her. She saw her friend pull sounds familiar, a towel from his own head and realized he, too, find Help & Hope by had been shot. A SWAT team rushed into the calling Lapeer Area room, and the paramedics arrived. She felt every Citizens Against jolt on the way to the hospital. She relayed her Domestic Assault goodbyes to be told to her mother and children (LACADA) at and faded out of consciousness. Death, she 810-667-4175. thought, had arrived. Later, she awoke and the truth hit her heavily –
14 Friday, December 18, 2020 Let sadness run its course and be kind to Recco Santee Richardson, PhD ourselves this Christmas
BY KATHERINE make sure we do those,” Recco says. for teens, Recco recommends listening NEGELE He encourages everyone to make time to how those children feel and trying for activities that bring them pleasure to accommodate them as much as olidays and joy, whether it’s reading, crocheting, possible. The elderly, who often view can watching movies or writing. family as a lifeline, also may find their be a mental wellness hit especially hard by the stressfulH time Although it can be depressing that many physical distancing required by COVID-19 for families and festivities are out of the question due this holiday season. To counteract that, Katherine Negele individuals. Add to COVID-19, remain hopeful. Stay busy in the stressors of and take this time to plan for something Recco encourages family and friends to the COVID-19 pandemic and next year, as soon as it’s possible. In the send cards and make frequent phone anyone’s mental health may suffer. That’s meantime, use phone calls and virtual calls to help their loved ones maintain why it’s so important to work toward gatherings to stay connected. It’s also that human connection. protecting our mental wellbeing from the Being kind to ourselves is crucial. Recco get-go or to seek help when our usual urges us to not feel shame or guilt if we coping mechanisms aren’t quite cutting it We need to be mindful of can’t buy everything our families deserve anymore. how“ we’re feeling and have a and to not get upset if someone can’t Paying attention to how we feel is the get time off work. “Do not feel bad about first step. According to Recco Santee plan for if we do start to have what you can’t do or where you can’t Richardson, PhD, LPC, Clinical Therapist, such feelings. We need to be be in person,” Recco stresses. “That’s nothing to feel guilty about. That’s where of Hurley Mental Health Associates, with aware of any subtle or sudden all the holiday commotions, it’s easy to be we get holiday depression.” caught off guard if we become anxious, changes in our moods or If you or your loved ones experience upset or worried. behaviors. mental health difficulties, don’t struggle “We need to be mindful of how we’re Recco Santee Richardson,” PhD alone. Seeking help is admirable and feeling and have a plan for if we do start Hurley Mental Health Associates are here to have such feelings. We need to be for you every step of the way. As one aware of any subtle or sudden changes in of Michigan’s largest outpatient mental health clinics, this highly skilled team is our moods or behaviors,” he explains. a great time to pull out those memory books. If you do feel sad, embrace it. known for customizing therapy to meet That plan he’s referencing is a plan to the needs of each patient, whether take care of ourselves. It could involve “Let it run its course—it’s an important they’re an adult, child, adolescent, teen, getting enough sleep, maintaining a feeling. Depression is the accumulation of minority, or individual with handicaps healthy diet, exercising, getting fresh air sad experiences that were not processed or disabilities. Contact Hurley Mental or just taking time to enjoy the moment. adequately,” Recco warns. Health Associates at 810-262-2100 or “The things that bring a smile to our Since the holidays can be extra hard [email protected] to faces or make us relax, we have to on children ages 8 to 12—more so than schedule an appointment today.
Friday, December 18, 2020 15 Signs of a Mental Health Condition Mental illness doesn’t7 discriminate. A mental health condition can affect anyone regardless of age, socioeconomic status, ethnicity or gender
he numbers are staggering. from a mental illness, they may If any of these symptoms sound with a trained crisis counselor. The National Alliance of experience increased feelings familiar, the best thing to do is to Mental Illness reports nearly of worry, panic, sadness or ask for help with your family doctor • Online or virtual care. Try an T44 million Americans experience a hopelessness. or a mental health resource. By online therapy session through mental health condition every year — getting help, you can take control of a website such as 7 Cups, an that’s about one in five adults. And 2. Loss of interest your symptoms and in many cases, online emotional health service there is no doubt that everyone in They may start avoiding friends, recover completely. Here are some provider. The app enables users the state of Michigan is living in crisis family and activities that used to options, if you’ve decided you could to select listeners based on mode with the spread of COVID- once bring pleasure. use some help: their preferences/experiences 19; schools and businesses closed, and anonymously chat via social distancing and most of our 3. Change in sleeping habits • Your health insurance company. the platform 24/7. In times of time spent at home. This can be very Sleeping patterns may change to Check with your health plan emotional turmoil or stress, it stressful. In fact, 36% of Americans sleeping too much or too little, to see which resources are is highly beneficial to talk to say that the COVID-19 pandemic has especially when compared to available. For example, Priority someone and this app offers a had a serious impact on their mental previous sleep routines. Health provides members with safe space to do that. Headspace health, according to the American information like what kind of help is another free mental health Psychiatric Association. 4. Low energy is available, what your plan will resource for Michiganders during Mental health affects everything — This can manifest itself as either cover and how to find counselors the COVID-19 pandemic offering it’s our emotional and psychological sleeping too much or having the or behavioral health care meditations, at-home workouts state of mind impacting how we inability to carry out everyday providers to meet your needs. and other help for stress and think, feel and act. But when activities and tasks such as work An on-staff behavioral health anxiety. something feels out of whack, it or even self-care. team is available to help 24 hours can pose issues to your day-to-day a day, seven days a week. Call • Community resources. For routine and wellbeing, but unlike 5. Difficulty interacting the number on the back of your Michiganders in need of free illnesses of the rest of the body, Many times people with a member ID card (your call is or low-cost mental health, mental illness has been swept under mental illness will find it hard completely confidential) or log the Michigan Department of the rug for many years because it to understand or relate to into your online account. Priority Health and Human Services has hasn’t been as widely accepted as a others. This may also present as Health has also partnered with a county map of community serious medical issue. extreme irritability with others or a digital health specialist to offer mental health service programs. It’s important to remember that themselves. free access to mental wellness everyone will experience anxiety and resources specifically focused on Whatever tools you use for help, sadness at some moment in their 6. Appetite or weight changes the COVID-19 pandemic. take the time to make your mental life. However, when that anxiety Dietary changes, whether it is health a priority. Your mind and and sadness is overwhelming and excessive eating or little to no • Disaster distress helpline. A health are certainly worth it. occurs regularly, a mental illness may eating, is a large indicator of 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national be the cause and you should seek depression. hotline dedicated to providing About the Author: Molly McCoy help. You don’t have to live with immediate crisis counseling for is the Director of Sales & Client the symptoms; there are resources 7. Uncontrollable emotions people who are experiencing Services, East Region at Priority available to feel better. A distinct, rapid mood swing emotional distress related to Health. With more than 30 years While every mental illness is from sadness to happiness, or any natural or human-caused of insurance experience, Molly different, here are seven common similar emotions on opposite disaster. This multilingual, and is committed to growing Priority signs to help determine if you or a ends of the spectrum, may be confidential crisis support service Health’s footprint in the eastern loved one may be suffering: an indicator of mental health is available to all residents in the region. She is also a mental health struggles. United States and its territories. first aid instructor and is certified 1. Change in feelings or demeanor Call 1-800-985-5990 or text through the National Council for When a person is suffering TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect Behavioral Health.
16 Friday, December 18, 2020 Thank You to our Community Sponsors for their help in bringing hope
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Friday, December 18, 2020 17 Thank You to our Community Sponsors for their help in bringing hope
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Journey Therapy Center 543 S. Main Street (M-24) Autism Center – ABA Therapy Lapeer CLINIC AND IN-HOME SERVICES 1100 W. Newark Road 810.664.2811 Lapeer, MI 48446 Non-Emergency Number (810) 358-0373 lapeerwineandspirits.com journeytherapycenter.com 810-667-0292
18 Friday, December 18, 2020 Get help now
Access to: Basic human needs, physical and mental health, National Suicide employment support, Lapeer County Prevention Lifeline: support for older Americans Emergency Community Call 911 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and persons with disabilities, support for children, youth Mental Health For Spanish press 2 1570 Suncrest Dr. and families, crisis calls 810-667-0500
Lapeer County Sheriff State Police - Lapeer Post Dryden Township 810-664-1801 810-664-2904 Police Dept. 810-796-2271 Lapeer Police Dept. Metamora Township 810-664-0833 810-798-8300 Imlay City Police Dept. 810-724-2345 Lapeer Township Police Almont Police Dept. 810-664-3700 810-798-8300
Friday, December 18, 2020 19 Thank you to our Community Partners for bringing our readers
Blackburn Chapel Martin Funeral Home
Lapeer County Community Mental Health
20 Friday, December 18, 2020