“When day comes, where can we find light in this never-ending shade?” After facing one of the most challenging years in our nation’s history, this quote by American poet and activist Amanda Gorman, summarized our feelings as we moved into 2021 following a global pandemic. Our mission to provide services to the most vulnerable members of our community became more important than ever. I’m proud to say with gratitude, that together - our dedicated employees, generous donors and valued partners - rose to the challenge. Our essential employees demonstrated resiliency, empathy and patience every day while keeping safety as the highest priority throughout the organization. Programs adapted to changes in the way we deliver services to ensure the individuals [...]

Recently, Oaks Integrated Care received a heartfelt letter from a mother who turned to Oaks when she fell on hard times. She believed her family would be torn apart but with the help of our programs and services, they were not only able to stay together, but thrive over the years. Charlene's Story “In 2017, I was living in a motel with my two young children. I was referred to Oaks Integrated Care’s Keeping Families Together program for assistance in finding affordable housing in a safe neighborhood. At the time, I also did not have access to a vehicle so the program staff made sure to provide me with transportation so I could get to appointments and shop for [...]

The holiday season is meant to bring cheer, joy and fun celebrations with family and friends. However, the holidays can often spiral into a whirlwind of demands such as cooking, shopping, cleaning and entertaining. Feeling financial pressure, coping with grief and managing family conflict can also be overwhelming. So, what can you do to manage holiday stress and other mental health challenges? Set realistic goals. The holidays may look different each year. As families and friends grow, traditions can change too. Ensure your plans for the holiday season are achievable and bring you joy rather than added stress. Be open to saying no to plans or activities if it’s just not feasible for you in the moment. Keeping your [...]

October is National Depression Awareness Month, a time to discuss, educate and share resources surrounding depression. As a widespread mental health condition, depression affects approximately 280 million people worldwide. While the typical signs of depression often show through sadness, other symptoms may be less obvious. Here are five possible hidden signs of depression to look for: 1. Hopelessness and loss of interest. When facing depression, one may present a pessimistic outlook on life. This negative view of the future, especially alongside other factors, can be your loved one’s way of showing their battle with depression. Additionally, an individual experiencing depression may lose interest in participating in hobbies and activities. 2. Difficulties in sleep. With sleep directly linked to an [...]

With the return of in-person schooling, bullying prevention among children and teens remains an important conversation. According to a recent federal survey, nearly 20 percent of U.S. students ages 12-18 reported being bullied on school property within the past year. Fifteen percent reported cyberbullying either online or by text. National Bullying Prevention Month this October reminds us that we all must play a role to prevent bullying and promote inclusion. Here are four tips to help parents and guardians through the process: 1. Create a positive and nurturing climate at home. Family environment is equally as important as the educational environment. Bullying in schools can sometimes arise from harsh parenting practices of sibling bullying at home. As guardians, ensuring [...]

September is National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the successes made by those in recovery and recognize health improvements which enable those battling mental health challenges or substance abuse to live a healthy and rewarding life. This year's theme, “Recovery is For Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community,” reminds those facing recovery of the abundance of groups and community members surrounding their journey. Oaks Integrated Care offers caring and compassionate programs to those struggling with addiction. Our goal is to offer hope for long-term recovery and a chance to end the revolving door of treatment. “And so rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I built my life.” No journey to recovery is the same. Matthew [...]

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. We’ve taken a rigorous, proactive approach by adopting the foundational belief that suicide deaths are preventable and establishing the Zero Suicide Implementation Team at Oaks Integrated Care. By creating a culture that’s informed about mental health and makes suicide prevention a priority, we can save lives together. Unfortunately, there are many common myths about suicidal behaviors, feelings and thoughts. Understanding these myths is essential to reducing the stigma and creating a supportive environment. MYTH #1: “If I talk about suicide, I am planting a seed or encouraging someone to consider suicide.” Research indicates [...]

With September quickly approaching, students, parents and educators are busy preparing for another school year. After months of virtual learning, it’s very common for children and teens to feel nervous or apprehensive about making the return to in-person learning. Parents and guardians may feel uncertain about how to successfully make this transition with their student. Check out these five tips for parents and guardians to keep mental health a priority this school year. 1. Provide reassurance and encouragement. Make sure your student knows that it’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s from you, teachers, counselors or other school staff. Returning to school can feel difficult, so encouraging children to speak up if they are feeling anxious can make [...]

Every child deserves a great first day of school! With back-to-school time quickly approaching this September, children and teens are preparing to return to in-person learning. For 13-year-old student, Leah, this school year brings a fresh start. After several weeks in the hospital undergoing treatment for severe and persistent mental illness, Leah has overcome the trauma of abuse and neglect and continues to welcome help with her coping skills. She is now feeling healthy and ready to tackle her last year of middle school. As a part of the Oaks Foster FLEX program, Leah shared her nerves for the upcoming school year along with her optimism that she can succeed. She would love a new backpack and supplies to [...]