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For All Seasons’ Community Conversation About Suicide Prevention Offers Practical Tips For Reaching Out to Those Who Are Struggling With Suicidal Thoughts

November 10, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

At a recent community conversation, “Life is Better with You Here: A Community Conversation about Suicide Prevention,” at the Avalon Theatre in Easton, CEO Beth Anne Langrell, Chief Clinical Officer Lesa Lee, LCSW-C, and moderator Bruce Grove, QACTV, shared practical strategies and tips for reaching out to those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts.

The conversation began with the acknowledgment that most people in the room had been impacted by suicide in some way, either directly or indirectly, and explored the impact suicide has had on the community as a whole. Beth Anne shared a concept that she and Lesa learned through their training by Brené Brown as Dare To Lead© Program facilitators, “One of the things that Brené says is that what we all need is human connection. Our brains are hardwired for connection. And what we know is that for each of us sitting in this room, when we peel away all the layers, what we want is to be seen, heard, and valued. When one of those things is missing, it makes a difference.”

“And so part of this conversation is about how can we, as a community, lean into the thought that if every single person who could start and end their day and feel that they were seen and heard and valued, imagine what our community would look like.”

Pictured left to right at For All Seasons’ recent “Life is Better with You Here: A Community Conversation about Suicide Prevention” at the Avalon Theatre in Easton are CEO Beth Anne Langrell, Chief Clinical Officer Lesa Lee, LCSW-C, and moderator Bruce Grove.

“Our job at For All Seasons is to help you live your best life and to find hope. And the No Matter What … You Matter campaign is as simple as it sounds. We want our community to be leaning into what is happening, no matter what situations have happened in the past, it’s okay. And there is hope. And there is an opportunity to be able to talk through whatever is happening,” she explained.

Lesa shared, “My first invitation to you all would be to acknowledge that everyone is going through something. We don’t know what somebody is experiencing behind closed doors . . . and to recognize that everyone is not necessarily living a good life, which is what things look like sometimes on Facebook and other social media. It can look like this picture-perfect place, when in reality, sometimes we’re struggling and we just don’t know how to communicate that.”

She explained that sometimes people who struggle with suicide are afraid to be seen struggling because they don’t want anyone to know that they’re suffering and provided ways to communicate with people when this happens. One of the tips she mentioned is paying attention and noticing changes in our loved ones’ behaviors – as an important first step in suicide prevention.

Beth Anne added the next step is asking the question, “How are you doing” and sticking around to listen to the answer, and if you don’t get an answer, circling back with someone later. She stated, “It’s our responsibility as a community, to be responsible for our circle. Regarding suicide prevention, our responsibility to one another is to ask the question, listen, and then share the resources that we have within our community. We’re all busy, we all have things that are going on, but we need to find that time that you can connect with somebody who may be struggling. . . And sometimes it’s about showing up more than once – showing up time and again.”

Lesa shared with the audience that asking about suicide does not put the idea of suicide in someone’s head. Research shows that asking the question is not going to cause somebody to feel suicidal. She added, “And in fact, it often is a relief for the person who is feeling suicidal, that they can maybe share that.”

For people suffering from suicidal thoughts, Lesa offered, “We want to offer hope that there is a way and that we can help with pain and suffering. Because no one wants to live in that space. There is a way and you might have to try several clinicians because there will be somebody there that can help you.”

Beth Anne concluded, “So the more we talk about it, and the more we share about what is happening, the more that we recognize that we’re not alone in the conversation – the better we can address this issue.”

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out. For help throughout Eastern Shore, call For All Seasons 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: Text: 410-829-6143 I English: 410-820-5600 I Español: 410-829-6143.

For help throughout Maryland and the United States Crisis Hotline dial: 988.

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For All Seasons Adverse Childhood Experiences Training Equips Educators

October 29, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

Emily Moody, LCSW-C, Associate Clinical Director at For All Seasons

Children thrive in environments where they feel safe, stable, and bonded to their families. Unfortunately, children often experience Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which are potentially traumatic experiences and events, ranging from abuse and neglect to parental incarceration and beyond. A growing body of research has made it increasingly apparent that ACEs are a critical public health issue that can have negative, lasting effects on physical health and well-being in childhood and later in life. As much as ACEs can have a long-term effect, understanding these potentially traumatic experiences and how they can affect children and families in the short term can be especially helpful in an academic and/or caregiving environment. Through the agency’s Center for Learning, For All Seasons staff is providing ACEs training to equip educators and administrators with a foundational knowledge of ACEs and skills and strategies for embedding knowledge of ACEs into care for young people.

Emily Moody, LCSW-C, Associate Clinical Director at For All Seasons, is a certified masters-level presenter with the ACEs Interface Project, which provides Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) trainings across the state of Maryland. She is also a graduate of the Mindful Teacher program through Mindful Schools. She provides ongoing consultation to Project Right Steps at Chesapeake College and classroom observations at Head Start sites in Caroline County. Most recently, she provided professional development on ACEs to the staff of Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers.

“ACEs is the largest health study of its time that connects early adversity to health issues. Early childhood providers are in a unique position to impact how a child copes with adverse traumatic experiences early in their lives. This was new information for them about the neurobiology of trauma and its effects on children’s behaviors,” Emily stated.

“We talked about resilience strategies for the children at Critchlow and the staff as well,” she added.

According to Lauren Weber, Vice President of Philanthropy and Education, Center for Learning faculty members are focused not only on training but on resolving the root causes of the trauma that shows up in our community. She stated, “Our Center for Learning is developing and launching educational programs that complement our clinical services and provide trauma education that helps our entire community. If we wrap around the people who have experienced trauma, we create a community that’s welcoming, engaging, and inclusive of everyone – a community that can be a place of healing from trauma.”

“Our ACEs training is one component of our agency’s larger strategy to equip community members, like the staff at Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers, who are not clinical therapists, with the necessary tools to support those who have experienced trauma. This especially creates a transformational lens from which early childhood teachers can operate.”

When surveyed, 100% of the Critchlow Adkins staff who participated in the training said that the training was helpful and that the presentation enhanced their knowledge and skills. Some of the participants said that it helped them better understand what kids are experiencing and what they bring into the classroom.

Cristy Morrell, Executive Director of Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers, stated, “With children being isolated due to COVID, the lack of exposure to social situations has increased anxiety and fear when children are placed in group settings. We are seeing it, especially with children who were isolated and not able to interact or play with a sibling or peers. They now have to learn how to cooperate, how to interact, transition from activity to activity, and how to follow directions. We need to help them to develop these appropriate behaviors.”

“Partnering with For All Seasons was helpful in that our teachers have an understanding of their own ACEs scores, as well as an understanding of the effects of trauma on the children and families they serve. Because of this training, they will be better prepared to effectively navigate challenges that arise in their classrooms.”

For further information about For All Seasons ACEs Training, contact Lauren Weber at [email protected].

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For All Seasons is Raising Awareness about Suicide Prevention

September 19, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

Suicide is a leading cause of death on the Eastern Shore, in Maryland, and in the United States. According to the latest available statistics from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and Maryland Governor’s Commission on Suicide Prevention, over the last 20 years, the suicide rate on the Eastern Shore has increased by 27.5 percent.

Each year, For All Seasons shines a light on suicide prevention with its No Matter What … You Matter campaign. This initiative’s goal is to prevent suicide on Maryland’s Eastern Shore through education and increased access to crisis resources. The focus of this year’s message is you never know what someone is going through. Reach out.

Recognizing the warning signs of suicide is important. Suicide often occurs when life stressors and health issues converge, leaving some people experiencing hopelessness and despair. A change in behavior or the presence of entirely new behaviors may be warning signs of suicidal thoughts, especially if related to a painful event, loss, or change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say, what they do, or sudden mood changes.

Some tips for dealing with someone who is considering suicide, are:

Be proactive. There are times when you notice that something is off for a friend or family member. Take note of changes in talk, behavior, and mood. Pay attention to your gut.

Talk about it. Start a conversation in a private safe space about how that person is doing. Listen to their story. Focus on showing your support and compassion. Tell them you care about them. Avoid debating the value of life, minimizing their problems, or giving advice. You don’t have to have all the answers. Be direct. Research shows that asking someone if they are having suicidal thoughts will not put the idea into their mind.

Reduce access to means of self-harm. A suicidal crisis is temporary and often lasts minutes. Consider what items are a danger to someone who could be suicidal. Remove and/or lock up these items.

Get Help. Encourage them to seek treatment or contact their doctor or therapist or a crisis line and/or mental health services right away. Build in choice. Stay with the person until they have received support.

Follow Up. Continue to check in regularly and be a source of understanding and support.

This year’s campaign will launch with a special community conversation about suicide prevention entitled “Life is Better with You Here: A Community Conversation about Suicide Prevention” on October 5 at 7 p.m. at the Avalon Theatre. For All Seasons’ CEO Beth Anne Langrell and Chief Clinical Officer Lesa Lee, LCSW-C, will share practical strategies and tips for reaching out to those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts. Register for this speaker series event at https://LifeIsBetterWithYouHere.eventbrite.com.

The same night, For All Seasons, will debut its annual suicide prevention music video. This song will offer an inspirational reminder that reaching out to loved ones in times of struggle can change lives and will feature members of For All Seasons’ Heart and Music cast and other recognizable faces and places from the Mid-Shore

Pictured is Paul Washo, For All Seasons’ therapist, who has tips about things we can all do to prevent suicide.

“The signs and symptoms of someone who may be thinking about suicide can be widely variable. We want to be watching for any unusual shifts in behavior. Tune into the extremes that we notice in someone we care about or are close to. People who are giving away their goods could be another sign the person is having suicidal thoughts,” comments Paul Washo, Therapist at For All Seasons.

“One of the most important things to do if someone has come to you and acknowledged that they are having these suicidal thoughts is to help them know that they are not alone and that other people have these thoughts. It is more common than we hear about because it’s private. That is what this campaign is all about. Helping people understand the subtleties and be in tune with those. Also, helping them understand that there is help available and that they are worth it.”

Anyone needing help can contact For All Seasons 24/7 at 410-822-1018 or the 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: Text: 410-829-6143 Toll-Free: 800-310-7273 | English:410-820-5600 | Spanish: 410-829-6143. Persons may also call Maryland Crisis Connect 24/7 – Dial 211 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). For further information about For All Seasons activities related to the agency’s No Matter What … You Matter suicide prevention campaign, visit www.NoMatterWhatYouMatter.org or www.ForAllSeasonsInc.org.

For All Seasons is your community behavioral health and rape crisis center offering therapy, psychiatry, advocacy, and education to individuals and families, regardless of one’s ability to pay. For further information, visit www.forallseasonsinc.org.

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For All Seasons Leads Community Conversation on Suicide Prevention at Avalon Lecture

September 13, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

Suicide is a leading cause of death on the Eastern Shore, in Maryland, and the United States.

Each year, For All Seasons, shines a light on suicide prevention with its No Matter What … You Matter campaign. This initiative’s goal is to prevent suicide on Maryland’s Eastern Shore through education and increased access to crisis resources.

Highlight how powerful social connections and a sense of belonging are in preventing suicide;
Share practical strategies and tips for reaching out to those who are struggling;
Discuss crisis resources that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; and
Share a special message of support and hope for those who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.

L-R: Beth Anne Langrell, CEO of For All Seasons; moderator Bruce Grove, QACTV; and Lesa Lee, LCSW-C, Chief Clinical Officer of For All Seasons.

At the conclusion of this speaker series event, For All Seasons will debut its annual suicide prevention music video. This song will offer an inspirational reminder that reaching out to loved ones in times of struggle can change lives and will feature members of For All Seasons’ Heart and Music cast and other recognizable faces and places from the Mid-Shore community.

“We all have a role to play in suicide prevention. One of the most important pieces of advice is not to wait for the ‘perfect moment’ to ask about suicide; that moment will never come. Ask anyway. Because suicide is too important to keep secret,” comments Beth Anne Langrell, CEO, For All Seasons.

Some tips for dealing with someone who is considering suicide, are:

Be proactive. There are times when you notice that something is off for a friend or family member. Take note of changes in talk, behavior, and mood. Pay attention to your gut.

Reduce access to means of self-harm. A suicidal crisis is temporary and often lasts minutes. Consider what items are a danger to someone who could be suicidal. Remove and/or lock up these items.

Follow Up. Continue to check in regularly and be a source of understanding and support.

Anyone needing help can contact For All Seasons 24/7 at 410-822-1018 or the 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: Text: 410-829-6143 Toll-Free: 800-310-7273 | English:410-820-5600 | Spanish: 410-829-6143. Persons may also call Maryland Crisis Connect 24/7 – Dial 211 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). For further information about For All Seasons activities related to the agency’s No Matter What … You Matter suicide prevention campaign, visit www.NoMatterWhatYouMatter.org or www.ForAllSeasonsInc.org.

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For All Seasons Provides Tips for Coping with Back-to-School Anxiety

September 3, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

As the beach bags get put away and an inventory gets done on the status of backpacks and shoes, parents may have other worries about their children’s readiness to return to school related to their children’s anxiety and mental health. The American Psychological Foundation (apa.org) says that parents play an important role in helping kids feel ready for the transition back to school by encouraging them to share and express their feelings about returning to school. Tips include restarting the family’s school-year routine a few weeks before school starts, getting to know new neighborhood children if you have moved, talking to your children, empathizing with their worries or fears, and asking for help to manage and cope.

For All Seasons staff featured in the agency’s podcast, “Bring on the Mess,” which features tips for back-to-school transitions and information about ADHD. L-R: Beth Anne Langrell, CEO, For All Seasons, Joseph Cox, Clinician, For All Seasons, Lesa Lee, Chief Clinical Officer, For All Seasons.

Children of Different Ages

Managing the anxiety of children of different ages can be challenging. Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital recommends different approaches for each child. For early elementary school-aged children, the message is to keep it brief and simple while providing reassurance that adults will keep them safe and following routine behaviors (like hand washing) to keep them healthy. For upper elementary and middle school-aged children, the focus is usually on helping them distinguish reality from rumor/fantasy and reminding them how important it is to take care of one another. For upper middle and high school-aged students, discussions can be more in-depth, helping them with honest, factual information to engage them in shared decision-making. Parents should practice good listening and encourage children to verbalize their thoughts.

Attention-Getting Tantrums

Bad behavior can still happen, and professionals agree on one thing – ignore attention-getting tantrums from children about going back to school. The website Mental Health First Aid (mentalhealthfirstaid.org) encourages parents to stay calm and avoid getting angry or upset when children have tantrums. Instead, parents are encouraged to praise children when they see calmer behavior. While your child needs to know you’re there to listen and help problem-solve, timing can be everything. Find a time to talk when your child is relatively calm – not when they are upset or getting ready for school.

Conversation Starters

Talking about the transition back to school can help children problem-solve solutions. Conversation starters could include, asking them ways you can help make it easier for them, or asking them about their specific worries. Giving children choices about picking out their clothes or selecting a favorite meal during the first week of school can empower them and help them feel more in control during this transition.

Research shows that 22 percent of Americans will have a diagnosable mental illness at some point before they are 18 years old. This means that in a class of 25 students, at least five will experience a mental health challenge. If not addressed, mental health challenges can have an impact long into a person’s adulthood. Mental Health America recommends, especially for teens, that taking care of basic needs can make all the difference. This includes eating healthy snacks, staying hydrated, resting if you need to, making time for hobbies, practicing relaxation, volunteering for others, and asking for help when you need it.

In For All Seasons’ two most recent podcasts, “Bring on the Mess,” clinicians explore how to support children as they transition back to a new school year, specifically looking at the village or community that parents/caregivers rely upon to navigate change and create safe environments for kids to learn and grow, as well as information about understanding Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Visit https://www.buzzsprout.com/1863116/11175937-bring-on-the-mess-volume-18-it-takes-a-village and https://www.buzzsprout.com/1863116/11202759-bring-on-the-mess-volume-17-adhd.

For additional information on managing stress and anxiety, visit mentalhealthfirstaid.org or call For All Seasons at 410-822-1018 if you would like more information on services.

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For All Seasons School Supplies Giveaway and Resource Fair Draws Over 800 Participants

August 30, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

For All Seasons hosted its annual School Supplies Giveaway and Resource Fair on Thursday, August 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Idlewild Park in Easton with over 800 participants in attendance. Talbot County Department of Social Services was a key partner in contributing to the purchase of hundreds of backpacks pre-stuffed with supplies for community children in need. In addition to the backpacks and school supplies, the event offered community resources, free Italian ice, movie theater popcorn, snacks, schoolyard games, and a raffle.

“The purpose of the School Supplies Giveaway and Resource Fair is to meet a real and present need in the community while helping people recognize all the services available to them right in their own backyard. We help destigmatize mental health when our team connects with people out in the community, and we get the opportunity to share important mental health information,” stated Katie Theeke, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at For All Seasons.

Pictured left to right are Omar Bolden and Jenell Sutton of For All Seasons, and Jazmyne Sampson handing out nearly backpacks at the recent School Supplies Giveaway and Resource Fair in Idlewild Park.

“We were amazed at the turnout for our School Supplies Giveaway. Not only were we able to give hundreds of kids the supplies they needed for school, but we were also able to share resources and information with parents on how to prioritize mental health during this stressful time of year. This wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of the For All Seasons staff, generosity of our community partners, and sponsorship of the Talbot Department of Social Services,” added Jonathan Qvarnstrom, Marketing, and Outreach Associate at For All Seasons.

The event was provided with support from CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. Vendors in attendance this year included Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center, Upper Shore Aging, Inc. – Brookletts Place Talbot County Senior Center, Eastpoint Church, Mid-Shore Pro Bono, Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Talbot Humane, Talbot County Free Library, Talbot County Department of Social Services, Talbot County Sheriff’s Office, Community Behavioral Health, Seedco-Maryland Health Connection, Talbot County CarePacks, Neighborhood Service Center, Inc., The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, Easton Elementary School, University of Maryland Clark Comprehensive Breast Center, Talbot County Health Department, Talbot Hospice Foundation, Aetna, and Wraparound Maryland.

For All Seasons is your community behavioral health and rape crisis center offering therapy, psychiatry, advocacy, education, and outreach to individuals and families, regardless of one’s ability to pay. For further information, visit www.forallseasonsinc.org.

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Erica Batson Awarded Service with Distinction Award by Maryland Nonprofits

August 25, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

Erica Batson, Executive Assistant, and IT Specialist at For All Seasons has been awarded a “Service with Distinction” Award by Maryland Nonprofits, a nonpartisan, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to strengthening nonprofit organizations and networks for greater quality of life and equity for three decades. The Awards are at the heart of Maryland Nonprofits’ 30th-Anniversary year campaign, ‘This is the moment to care’, an initiative to address the urgent need for a shift towards an internal culture of care and equity within the nonprofit sector.

Erica has worked at For All Seasons since 2017 but has been working in the mental health field since 2009. She also works as a Facilitator for Healthy Talbot, linking local families and individuals to information and resources that can help them lead healthier, happier lives. She has an associate degree in Business Management Technology from Chesapeake College.

Erica Batson

“Erica is unflappable – an ocean of calm. From the Board of Directors to accreditation issues, technology or human resources needs, to systems and processes, Erica has a hand in all facets of the agency’s operations. She paves the way for me to complete the myriad duties of CEO for this growing behavioral health provider and rape crisis center,” comments Beth Anne Langrell, CEO of For All Seasons.

“As a professional, Erica’s work is exacting, thoughtful, and precise. She has an innate ability to keep the big picture in mind while focusing on all the details, one at a time. She is a mastermind at execution.”

The 50 award winners are nonprofit workers serving in positions that do not typically receive formal recognition, such as direct care, in an administrative or support role, working in operations, and/or in an entry-level position. Nominated by their colleagues, each individual is recognized for delivering significant commitment, integrity, compassion, and care for their organizations and their communities. The award winners hail from 43 statewide organizations serving in mission areas like social work, food insecurity, legal aid, environmental protection, and the arts.

“Discussing workplace culture in the context of this moment is critical, especially as many nonprofit staff members are women and people of color, and we know the COVID-19 pandemic has added stressors and exacerbated pre-existing class, gender, and racial inequities,” says Heather Iliff, Maryland Nonprofits’ President & CEO.

“Nonprofits depend first and foremost on our staff, volunteers, and boards, and we cannot care for our communities without first caring for the people working to deliver our missions. The Service with Distinction Awards is an opportunity to celebrate the incredibly dedicated and compassionate individuals who make our work possible, day-in and day-out.”

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For All Seasons Sponsors Free Community Talk on Parenting by Author Lynn Sanchez

July 26, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

For All Seasons’ Center for Learning presented a free community talk, “You Have What It Takes: Surviving and Thriving as a Parent Today”, presented by local author and expert trainer Lynn Sanchez, M.Ed. Targeting parents and caregivers with a message of empowerment, this presentation took place at The Avalon Theatre in Easton and streamed virtually on Facebook Live. The talk was part of For All Seasons Speakers Series designed to share messages that are reaching people in different ways on a variety of topics. Lynn, the author of the new book, Behind the Brussels Sprouts, used her own, often comical, parenting stories, and her decades of experience to share with parents how to relax, build their self-awareness and confidence, and most importantly, enjoy the amazing parenting journey.

“Especially during the pandemic, our parents have experienced a different way to raise children, and there have been increased stressors in our community as a result. As a behavioral health agency and rape crisis center, we wanted to shine a light on parenting,” commented Beth Anne Langrell, CEO of For All Seasons.

Pictured are Beth Anne Langrell, CEO, For All Seasons and local author and expert trainer Lynn Sanchez, M.Ed., who presented a free community talk, “You Have What It Takes: Surviving and Thriving as a Parent Today,” at The Avalon Theatre in Easton and streamed virtually on YouTube and Facebook Live.

Participants of the talk gained a refreshing perspective, learning new tools and strategies to lighten the parenting load today. Each attendee also received a free copy of Lynn Sanchez’s book.

“I want parents to trust themselves, I want them to relax, and I want them to enjoy parenting,” Lynn stated. “There is lots of competition for children’s minds and spirits today. There are no perfect parents. Every family has its challenges. If you have a family value and you are maintaining it, you are doing a good job.”

Lynn shared some tips on parenting including handling the needs of different-aged children. “Every child is unique. We have to be as flexible as a Slinky and look at what we are doing right. We are the expert on our children,” she added.

About the subject of competition, Lynn shared that children should get three things out of participating in any activities and being able to say to their parents: 1) I came. 2) I participated. 3) I enjoyed it. She commented, “It’s not always about winning. The biggest gift you can give your child is the ability to fail and to get back up and try it again. We have to be cautious about competition and comparison. As I point out in the book, they are rough seas.”

She also shared about providing guidance to our children, stating, “Part of guidance is accountability. We have to make children accountable for their behavior. Discipline is guidance. We want children to learn how to guide their own behavior.”

Other tips she provided were to use anticipation to reduce frustration for children, use active listening with our children when they get home from school to gain insight, limit electronics to engage in family time, and have fun with your children.

The book, Behind the Brussels Sprouts, has appeal for all ages as it awakens reflections in older adults about how they were parented and how that impacted their parenting.

If you missed the talk, please tune into YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZgSkGlwwu8.

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For All Seasons Offers Water Bottles with a Mental Health Message

July 14, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about 1 in 7 children, ages 5 to 15, will experience at least one “severe mental disorder.” That number climbs to 1 in 5 children during the teen years, ages 13 to 18. We hear a lot about physical health and keeping our bodies healthy and strong, but mental health is just as important. We can do things to “be kind to our minds.”

At the end of the school year, For All Seasons reached out to area elementary schools on the Mid-Shore providing “Be Kind to Your Mind” water bottles, along with a conversation starter for parents and teachers to help them discuss mental health. This year, bottles were delivered to Chapel Elementary School, Preston Elementary School, Federalsburg Elementary School, Sandy Hill Elementary School, Centreville Elementary School, and Kennard Elementary School.

Pictured is a student at Kennard Elementary School, one of several elementary schools on the Mid-Shore where For All Seasons staff delivered “Be Kind to Your Mind” water bottles and conversation starters for students and their teachers.

“It was perfect timing at the end of the school year to share this mental health message with students and their families as they prepare for summer. Summer break is a great time to discuss mental health and wellness and we are providing the tools for families to do that,” states Jonathan Qvarnstrom, Marketing, and Outreach Associate at For All Seasons.

Some of the tips in the conversation starter included:

Positive thinking is one big way we can “be kind to our minds.”
Being “kind to your mind” also means naming your feelings & sharing them with people you trust.
Being mentally healthy does not mean being happy all of the time.
Treat yourself as kindly as you would a friend.

Susan D. Klepper, M Ed., School Counselor at Kennard Elementary School, adds, “The Kennard Elementary School students were thrilled to receive their brand-new water bottles! The timing was perfect because it was field day, so they had plenty of refreshment during their time outdoors. Students enjoyed the “Be Kind to Your Mind” activities shared by For All Seasons and appreciated this amazing donation.”

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Talking with Children About Tragedy in the News

May 29, 2022 by For All Seasons, Inc.

As our community continues to process and grieve the tragedy that unfolded in Uvalde, TX earlier this week, For All Seasons offers two helpful resources to guide adults, parents, and caregivers as they navigate difficult conversations with children and adolescents. Knowing that children benefit from consistent connection with the adults in their lives, the first resource is a general guide for engaging youth in hard conversations around topics like stress and anxiety. The second resource is specific to talking with children in the wake of a tragedy.

These printable discussion guides can be downloaded from For All Seasons at forallseasonsinc.lpages.co/youth-discussions

For All Seasons offers the following tips:

Start with curiosity — what does your child know about the event? Even if you haven’t yet discussed it together, the child may have heard the news from media sources or classmates. Remember that your child’s perception of what has happened may differ from reality. Gently correct misunderstandings.

Assure your child that it is normal to be sad or scared when events like these occur. It is also OK to admit that you, too, are feeling sad, scared, or angry. Try to acknowledge that you are having these feelings and that they are normal. Reassure your child that there is nothing wrong with having big or scary emotions. Tell your child that no topic is too big or scary to talk about.

Encourage your child to ask questions, both now and in the future. David Schonfeld, MD, Director of the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement (https://www.schoolcrisiscenter.org/director/) writes, “Like adults, children are better able to cope with a crisis if they feel they understand it. Question-and-answer exchanges provide you with the opportunity to offer support as your child begins to understand the crisis and the response to it.”

Point out that many people are working to keep your child safe. Talk about the many people in our community who work each day to ensure safety. Consider pointing out people whose job it is to keep us safe – teachers and other school staff, law enforcement, parents, EMS workers, and more.

Be honest during your conversation, but keep it appropriate for your child’s age. The National Association of School Psychiatrists offers the following guidelines to make your conversation age-appropriate:

Early elementary school children need brief, simple information balanced with reassurances that their school and homes are safe. Emphasize that adults are there to protect them.
Upper elementary and early middle school children will be more vocal in asking questions about whether they truly are safe and what is being done at their school. Some students may need assistance separating reality from fantasy. Discuss efforts of families, schools, and community leaders to provide safety.
Upper middle school and high school students will have strong and varying opinions about the causes of violence in schools and society. They will share concrete suggestions about making their homes, schools, and communities safer and how to prevent tragedies in society. Emphasize your child’s role in maintaining safety by following laws, rules, and guidelines (e.g., not providing building access to those they don’t know, reporting strangers in school settings or elsewhere, reporting threats to the school safety made by students or community members, etc.). Ensure that your child feels empowered to communicate any personal safety issues to trusted adults and that they know how to access support for emotional needs.

Remember that it is OK that you don’t have all of the answers. The beloved Mr. Rogers once shared, “If the answer is ‘I don’t know,’ then the simplest reply might be something like, ‘I’m sad about the news, and I’m worried. But I love you, and I’m here to care for you.’”

Be patient and open to having multiple conversations over time. Your child may not have much to say in the moment. Give them some time and let them know they can come back with more questions or to talk about the events when they are ready.

Help is available. If you or your children are feeling stuck or overwhelmed, reach out. There are many resources in your community and For All Seasons is here to help.

For All Seasons professionals are available 24/7. Call 410-822-1018 or at our confidential 24-hour crisis hotlines in English: 410-820-5600, Español: 410-829-6143, and via text (English or Español) at 410-829-6143.

This guidance has been adapted, with gratitude, from Colorín Colorado.

For All Seasons provides the highest quality mental health and victim services to children, adults, and families across Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Services are offered in both English and Spanish and include therapy, psychiatry, victim advocacy, 24-hour crisis hotlines, outreach, and community education. For further information, contact For All Seasons at 410-822-1018 or visit forallseasonsinc.org.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

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