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Mental health

Preparing Emotionally for the School Year

August 16, 2024 by The Inside Press

As summer draws to a close, the anticipation of a new school year begins. This period can be both exciting and stressful for families.

Mary Breen, LCSW, founder and clinical director of Repose, a therapy practice in Pleasantville, offers valuable tips to prepare for a successful school year.

One effective way to prepare for school is to establish consistent routines well before the first day. “Creating a predictable routine can help ease the transition,” Breen advises. This means setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, establishing regular meal and homework schedules. Having a set schedule can reduce anxiety and help children adjust better.

Open communication is key to addressing your children’s concerns. Breen emphasizes the importance of listening to your child’s feelings and validating their emotions. “Allow your children to express their feelings about going back to school and provide reassurance,” she suggests. This approach helps children feel understood and supported, making the transition less daunting.

Suggested Discussion Topics:

  • Daily Schedule: “Reviewing the daily schedule can help children know what to expect,” says Breen. Talk about their activities to create a sense of predictability.
  • Classmates and Friends: Breen suggests discussing their existing friends and new classmates they might meet. “Talking about social aspects of school helps children feel more comfortable and excited about reconnecting with peers,” she notes.
  • School Supplies: Involve your child in choosing their school supplies. “Allowing children to pick out their supplies allows them to feel more prepared and enthusiastic,” says Breen. This is also an opportunity to discuss organization.
  • New Subjects and Learning Opportunities: Encourage your child to share their thoughts on new subjects. “Discussing what they are excited about can shift the focus from anxiety to anticipation,” Breen advises.
  • Transportation and Safety: Review how they will get to and from school. “Discussing this can alleviate worries about getting to school on time,” Breen says.

Setting realistic expectations for both academic performance and extracurricular activities can prevent burnout and promote a healthy balance. Celebrate small achievements to build confidence in your child.

A well-organized study area can significantly enhance a child’s focus and productivity. “Designate a quiet, organized space for homework,” Breen recommends. Ensure this space is equipped with necessary supplies and free from distractions, creating an optimal environment for learning.

Structuring time before and after school is crucial for maintaining a balanced and stress-free routine. Breen suggests incorporating time for relaxation, activities, and bonding into your child’s day:

  • Morning Routine: Start the day with a calm and organized morning routine. A smooth morning sets a positive tone for the day.
  • After-School Downtime: Allow some downtime for your child to relax. Children need time to decompress after a busy school day.
  • Screen Time Management: Manage screen time by setting clear limits. It’s important to enforce balance with other activities.
  • Bonding Time: Schedule regular bonding time that is not related to tasks or other stress-inducing activities. Spending quality time together strengthens your relationship and provides emotional support.
  • Evening Routine: Establish a calming and consistent routine to help your child wind down. This can improve sleep quality and reduce bedtime struggles.

Encouraging organizational habits can reduce daily stress. From where shoes go to putting dirty clothes in the laundry, these small habits make a big difference. “Helping to pack snacks and lay out clothes can instill responsibility and accomplishment,”

Monitoring stress and anxiety in your child is essential. If these signs persist, consider seeking professional support. “Look for changes in behavior, sleep patterns, or appetite, as these can be indicators of stress,” advises Breen.

Repose offers several support strategies for families navigating these challenges. Teaching children mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help them manage stress and anxiety. This could include simple breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation sessions to help children harness the tools they need to stay calm and focused. Providing extra help for organizational strategies can boost your child’s confidence and improve their performance.

Family counseling can improve communication and resolve conflicts. “Family counseling provides a safe space to discuss and address family dynamics and conflicts,” Breen explains. “Regular check-ins with your child can also be beneficial and show your child that you are interested in their well-being.”

Breen shares a personal strategy to foster connection and reflection. “At the end of the day, whether during dinner or bedtime, we each share one challenge, two positive things, and something we look forward to,” she says. This practice helps process the day, connect, and encourages a positive outlook.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit byrepose.com. Repose
offers in-network mental health services with Aetna and out-of-network solutions for other insurance types. They are committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care to support families through life’s challenges.

Filed Under: Health and Wellness with our Sponsors Tagged With: Mary Breen, Mental health, Pleasantville Chamber of Commerce, Repose, Repose in Pleasantville, Student Mental Health

NY Ketamine Infusions Opens Third Location In Westchester County to Serve Community’s Mental Health Needs

May 21, 2023 by The Inside Press

In response to the increasing need for effective mental health treatment in Westchester County NY Ketamine Infusions (“NYKI”), the leading provider of intravenous ketamine therapy for major depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety and other debilitating mood disorders, announces the expansion of its treatment services.

NY Ketamine Infusions (NYKI) Westchester Team

With a successful track record of treating more than 5,000 patients in our two current locations in NYC and Long Island, NYKI has more clinical experience than any other ketamine center in the world.  NYKI offers personalized and private care to those suffering from mood disorders. Intravenous ketamine, a highly effective treatment alternative, can provide rapid relief in even the most complex cases of depression, PTSD, and other mood disorders. In 2012, Dr. Glen Brooks founded NYKI in New York City as one of the world’s first therapy centers dedicated exclusively to providing this breakthrough therapy. Dr. Brooks, a Board Certified Anesthesiologist, completed his training at Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital and taught at Yale University School of Medicine.

In multiple studies performed over the past 20 years by researchers at Yale University, Mt. Sinai, the National Institute of Mental Health and other major institutions, IV ketamine has proven to be a highly effective treatment helping patients who have not responded to either traditional psychiatric medications or psychotherapy–often with tremendous, life-changing results.

But it’s important to understand that intravenous administration of ketamine is the gold standard for treating patients with mood disorders such as treatment resistant depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. Delivery via other methods (intranasal and oral) is inconsistent and does not provide 100% bioavailability of ketamine. By administering ketamine intravenously, NYKI can deliver the precise dose and control the rate of infusion–important factors in ensuring an optimal outcome and patient experience.

At NY Ketamine Infusions, we are very focused on outcomes and are proud to report that 84% of our patients with treatment-resistant depression experienced noteworthy or significant improvement in their symptoms after undergoing ketamine therapy according to our OutcomeMD patient survey data (based on 2200+ patients seen since Jan. 2022).

Robert Glatter, MD

The Westchester clinic will be led by Robert Glatter, M.D., who has trained extensively with Dr. Brooks at the New York City location. With over 20 years of experience administering ketamine as an Emergency Medicine physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, Dr. Glatter brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Not only is Dr. Glatter an expert in his field, but he is also a sought-after commentator on important breakthroughs in depression treatment and healthcare. He serves on the Editorial Board of Medscape Emergency Medicine and is a longstanding contributor to Forbes Healthcare and Innovation. He is frequently called upon by major media organizations, including CBS News, ABC News, NBC News, The Today Show, and WebMD, to provide medical commentary on a variety of topics.

The newly opened office is located at 222 Westchester Ave STE 306, in West Harrison, NY 10604. For more information, interested patients and families can visit the practice’s website at nyketamine.com or call 914-369-1569 for a free consultation.

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Filed Under: Health & Fitness, Sponsor News! Tagged With: depression, Depression Treatment, Dr. Robert Glatter, Intravenous Ketamine, Ketamine Infusions, Mental health, Mental Health Awareness, Mood Disorders, New York Ketamine Infusions, PTSD

Center for Healthy Living Free Webinars in May – Features Holistic Women’s Health & Calming Walking

April 27, 2022 by The Inside Press

Lifecycle and holistic women’s health and calming walking are featured events among the many offered in May by Northern Westchester Hospital’s Center for Healthy Living

MOUNT KISCO, NY – This May Northern Westchester Hospital’s (NWH) Center for Healthy Living featured webinars will include a conversation for women to learn about a lifecycle and holistic approach to women’s health and a course on the calming effects of taking a 20-minute walk outside to help reduce stress and nurture our mental health. All events will be virtual. These classes help support the community, and benefit people’s mental and physical health. Other virtual classes in May include chair yoga, smoking cessation, a healthy cooking class to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, and a teen volunteering class open house.

Located next to the Whole Foods Market at Chappaqua Crossing, the Center for Healthy Living provides the local community with well-being and youth engagement programming. The center’s interactive virtual lectures and pop-up events allows the community to reach wellness goals, make educated health decisions, and seek engagement and service opportunities. For a full list of upcoming free events and registration, visit Eventbrite.com.

FEATURED EVENTS:

Mind, Body, Spirit: Lifecycle Care for the Whole Woman

May 19, 12:00-1:00 pm live over Zoom

Cost: Free

Throughout each phase of life, the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of a woman changes. From becoming a woman in your teen years, having your family, to aging, a relationship-based approach to your health can ensure you receive personalized care. Join us for a conversation with Northwell Health Midwifery at Harrison to learn about a lifecycle and holistic approach to women’s health and wellbeing and how a midwifery practice differs from traditional obstetrics and gynecology. Through this webinar, we will explore the gynecological needs and an integrative approach to care for each age group, including sexual health and functioning, mental wellbeing, pregnancy and postpartum care, and menopause. Breathing exercises for stress management will be demonstrated. This program is brought to you by Northern Westchester Hospital, Phelps Hospital, and the Katz Institute for Women’s Health, all part of Northwell Health.

Register at: Mind, Body, Spirit

 

Calming Walking

May 25, 12:00-1:00 pm, live over Zoom

Cost: Free

Grab your headphones and head outside for a 20-minute calming stroll. Time outdoors can provide soothing stress relief, giving us a valuable change in perspective to nurture our mental wellness. Join Licensed Clinical Social Worker Rachel Merchan for a combined walking and relaxation program in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. Participants will practice adding calming practices into a routine walk, while connecting with nature and engaging in light exercise.

Register at: Calming Walking

 

Chair Yoga

Cost: Free

Mondays and Thursdays, May 5, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26 (no class May 2, 9 or 30) – 11:00 am-12:00 pm, Live over Zoom

Chair Yoga is one of the gentlest forms of yoga available, adapting poses through creative use of a chair. Emphasis will be on breathing, balance, and moving at your own pace.

Register at: Chair Yoga

 

Smoking Cessation

Cost: Free

May 4, 11, 18, Live over Microsoft Teams

We know it’s challenging to quit smoking – we are here to help. This support group is facilitated by a Northern Westchester Hospital Respiratory Therapist. For specific information, contact NWHSmokingCessation@northwell.edu

Register at: Smoking Cessation

 

Cooking for Reducing Disease Risk: Osteoporosis

Cost: Free

May 24, 12:00-1:00 pm, live over Zoom

Reducing your risk for chronic disease starts in the kitchen. The foods we eat and prepare for our families can be nourishing, satisfying AND healthy. Join registered dietitian Amy Rosenfeld for a discussion about the connection between the foods we eat and reducing the risk for osteoporosis. Amy will discuss nutrition recommendations for strong bones and help you put these recommendations into action in your kitchen. Amy will demonstrate simple, healthy recipes, as well as culinary tips and tricks to encourage you to make nutritious foods part of your everyday routine.

Register at: Cooking for Reducing Disease Risk: Osteoporosis  

 

Teen Volunteer Open House

Cost: Free

May 18, 4:30-5:30 pm, live over Zoom

Looking for a way to give back to the community, learn about careers in healthcare, fulfill your community service hours and gain valuable work experience? Please join Ellen Muentener the Director of Volunteers from Northern Westchester Hospital for a Q & A session on volunteer opportunities available to high school students, as well as the steps and requirements to becoming a registered volunteer. During this program, you will also hear from current student volunteers about their experiences and have the opportunity to ask them questions.

Register at: Teen Volunteer Open House

 

Filed Under: Happenings, New Castle News Tagged With: Free Weinars, Mental health, Northern Westchester Hospital, Northwell, Teen Health, Women's Health

Westchester County Expert Resources Unite in Campaign to Increase Mental Health Awareness

September 9, 2021 by Inside Press

County Initiatives Launched for September which is Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month

(White Plains, NY) – Upholding Westchester County’s Commitment to suicide prevention, awareness and the importance of overall mental health, Westchester County Executive George Latimer, the Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH) and several community partners recognized the month of September as Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month. The month-long messaging campaign was created to help educate Westchester County residents on the appropriate ways to discuss mental health crisis in identified communities, and remind them of the resources available to them.

Volunteers from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and DCMH placed pinwheels on display at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle. The display of 78 pinwheels represent the number of completed suicides (78) in Westchester County in 2020. The display includes statistic signs and walk signs, and the pinwheels will remain on display throughout the month of September as part of Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month.  Full roll of pinwheel display: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpB9kFK0jI8

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “Throughout the month of September, the County will be encouraging residents to participate in a variety of workshops, training courses and task force initiatives to help our communities engage in suicide prevention efforts, and help them to practice good mental health. It is not always easy to speak up if you think a family member or friend is struggling or dealing with a mental health crisis, and we want to give you the tools to start that discussion. Helping those around us is everyone’s business, and we want everyone to know about the support and services that are available to them in Westchester.”

Commissioner of DCMH Michael Orth said: “It’s everyone’s responsibility to support each other’s mental health.  We can all help prevent tragedies in our own communities by learning to recognize and take seriously the signs of depression and emotional pain.  It is important that we reach out to family members, friends, neighbors and colleagues and open the door for conversation.”

Hudson Valley/Westchester Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Maria Idoni said: “September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This is a time for each of us to reach out to those around us and take steps to prevent suicide.  It’s important that we know how to talk about suicide, and connect ourselves and our loved ones to help if we ever need it. Together, we can help #StopSuicide.” 

Westchester County’s Suicide Prevention and Awareness Plan includes:

Westchester County Suicide Awareness Pinwheels Display and Reflection

For the first time in Westchester County, in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the County will display one pinwheel to represent every suicide in Westchester from the year prior. The pinwheels will be displayed at Glen Island Park New Rochelle throughout the month of September, for visitors to pause and remember those we lost to suicide.

DCMH Social Media Awareness Campaign:

Daily social media awareness information and activities related to Suicide Prevention and Awareness.

Soul Shop Faith Based Training:

On September 29, DCMH in partnership with AFSP and Calvary Church, will be offering “Soul Shop: Ministering to Faith Communities Affected by Suicide.” It’s estimated that one out of every two people in a given congregation has personally been affected by suicide. Soul Shop trains faith community leaders to offer support, hope and connection to those in their congregations. Soul Shop equips participants with the resources and guidance they need to foster hope and healing in their community. 

Mental Health First Aid Training:

DCMH will provide Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training to Westchester County’s communities.  Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis.  Adult Mental Health First Aid Training offers training to address the needs of adults.  Westchester will also be launching Teen Mental Health First Aid Training targeting adolescents and young adults in the near future. 

Full video of remarks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvzjSrJq5bU

News courtesy of the Westchester County Executive Office

Filed Under: Westchester, Your Health Tagged With: Mental health, suicide prevention

Westchester Jewish Community Services Awarded $4 Million Grant

February 4, 2021 by Inside Press

Geared to Aid WJCS in its Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services in Peekskill & Mount Vernon

WJCS (Westchester Jewish Community Services), the largest provider of outpatient licensed community-based services in Westchester county, was awarded a $4 million Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) grant–$2 million a year for two years–from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The funding will be used to broaden and deepen WJCS substance abuse and mental health services in Peekskill and Mt.Vernon, two of Westchester’s most under resourced communities.

 “The SAMHSA grant will provide integrated care, combining behavioral health, physical health, and substance use services, to low-income individuals who face major emotional and social challenges, including lack of employment, inadequate housing conditions, poor access to health services and substance use and opioid use prevention, treatment, and recovery support,” said WJCS CEO Seth Diamond. “COVID has only enhanced the challenges the residents of these communities face.WJCS is committed to providing an integrated, coordinated, and trauma-informed response to care for the people of Peekskill and Mt.Vernon.”

 According to national data, only 10% of people who need mental health or substance use disorder care receive treatment. In Peekskill and Mt.Vernon, six of the eight zip codes experience a disproportionate number of deaths, emergency room visits, and hospital stays due to opioid use. Many individuals living there face significant barriers to care, including low availability of timely appointments after 3pm and during the weekend; a shortage of psychiatric staff across all agencies resulting in frustration for hospital discharge planners, and the only mobile crisis team in the county not operating on weeknights after 10pm and weekend nights after 5 p.m. With SAMHSA funding WJCS will leverage its clinics, community programs, and relationships with community partners to increase access, and improve mental health and health outcomes through enhanced integration of services and meaningful engagement.  Visit www.wjcs.com

News courtesy of Westchester Jewish Community Services

Filed Under: Not for Profit News Tagged With: Mental health, Mount Vernon, Peekskill, Substance Abuse, Westchester Jewish Community Services, WJCS

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