Throughout history, Black individuals have made significant contributions to the field of mental health, challenging stigma, advocating for equitable access to care, and pioneering innovative approaches to healing and wellness. Yet, their stories and achievements are often overlooked or overshadowed. This Black History Month, join us in celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of Black mental health trailblazers. Dr. Alvin Poussaint Dr. Alvin Poussaint is a psychiatrist and Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He has been a prominent advocate for addressing mental health disparities in the African American community and has worked to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Dr. Poussaint has received numerous awards for his contributions to psychiatry and co-authored several books that explore the intersection [...]

Last week, Oaks Integrated Care suffered an unimaginable loss with the unexpected passing of Brenda Brown-Goggins, Chief of Quality and Healthcare Integration. Brenda served Oaks for over 27 years and impacted the lives of thousands of individuals in our community, from consumers, to staff, to community partners during her tenure. As a valued member of our executive leadership team, Brenda was truly dedicated to our purpose and mission. She was the Director of ICMS services for 22 years and was promoted to Vice President in 2015. In 2021, Brenda was promoted to Chief of Quality where she worked closely with our operations team to ensure the highest quality services throughout our organization. Words can’t begin to express the profound [...]

We can all save lives. Suicide prevention is a critical issue that requires a proactive and compassionate approach. As an organization committed to mental health and wellness, we understand the importance of equipping individuals with the tools and resources to intervene and support those in crisis. We’re proud to share that over 400 Oaks employees are receiving Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention training between fall 2023 and winter 2024 as part of the Zero Suicide initiative. The foundational belief of Zero Suicide is that suicide deaths for individuals under the care of health and behavioral health systems are preventable. Even one life lost is simply too many, and we commit to recognizing the signs and intervening before it’s [...]

Substance use disorders (SUDs) can affect individuals from all walks of life, and recognizing the signs is crucial for early intervention and support. Let’s explore the key indicators to help you determine if you or someone you know may be struggling with a substance use disorder. Changes in Behavior One of the primary indicators of an SUD is a noticeable change in behavior. This may include sudden mood swings, increased irritability, or a shift in social circles. We emphasize the importance of paying attention to significant changes in routine, interests, or overall personality. Decline in Physical Health Substance use can take a toll on physical health. Look out for unexplained weight loss, deteriorating hygiene, or persistent health issues. These [...]

Smiles can be deceiving. Behind a calm exterior, exciting social media feed, and the seemingly have-it-all-going-for-them exterior, these individuals might be grappling with high-functioning anxiety. It's often a silent struggle that goes unnoticed, as those affected navigate their daily lives with ease. In this blog, we delve into the world of high-functioning anxiety, shedding light on the challenges faced by those who bear this hidden burden. The Mask of High-Functioning Anxiety General anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition in adults or children that causes fear and a constant feeling of being overwhelmed. High-functioning anxiety is a term used to describe individuals who manage to meet the demands of daily life, often excelling in their endeavors, all while [...]

For the caretaker looking after a family member living with mental illness; for the family struggling to put food on the table and afford rent; for the young father recovering from addiction—there is hope. As we near the end of the year, our mission to serve the most vulnerable members of our community shines brighter than ever before. Here are a few 2023 highlights we’re most grateful for: Zero Suicide Initiative We’re proud to share that all Oaks employees received QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training this year. The foundational belief of Zero Suicide is that suicide deaths for individuals under the care of health and behavioral health systems are preventable. Even one life lost is simply too [...]

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness for many. However, for individuals living with substance use disorder (SUD), this time of year can pose unique challenges. Managing triggers, maintaining sobriety, and finding support are crucial during this festive season. Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you or someone you know living with SUD navigate the holidays with resilience and positivity. Develop a Support System The holidays can be emotionally charged, and having a strong support system is essential. Communicate openly with friends and family about your journey and let them know how they can support you. Set Boundaries It's okay to set boundaries during the holidays. Politely decline invitations to events that [...]

Caring for a loved one living with mental illness can be a challenging journey and we recognize the vital role family caregivers play in providing support. Amidst the selfless dedication, it's crucial for caregivers to prioritize their own mental well-being. The Impact on Mental Health When a loved one is diagnosed with a mental illness, finding appropriate medical and psychiatric care often becomes the caregiver’s main focus. Balancing these needs with the challenges of everyday life can be both physically exhausting and emotionally draining.  It’s important for caregivers to find balance in life by taking proactive steps to reduce stress. Intensive Family Support Services (IFSS) Our Intensive Family Support Services (IFSS) program helps family caregivers caring for an adult [...]

In a rapidly evolving world, our views on mental health have changed through the years alongside shifts in culture, technology and societal norms. Each generation has its own set of values, experiences, challenges and historical contexts which results in differing perspectives. Here, we explore how different generations view mental health, the factors that have shaped these perspectives, and how we can bridge the generational gap to promote better understanding and support. The Silent Generation (Born 1928-1945) Members of the Silent Generation often grew up in a time when discussing mental health issues was considered taboo. Stiff upper lips and stoic attitudes were the norm. Seeking help for mental health challenges was seen as a sign of weakness. Many of [...]

Navigating the holiday season, family relationships, and mental health can be a delicate balancing act. While the holidays are often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration, they can also be incredibly challenging for those dealing with mental health issues. The pressure to maintain a cheerful facade, interact with extended family, and manage expectations can exacerbate stress, anxiety, and depression. In this blog, we'll explore how to approach the holiday season in a way that supports your mental well-being while still participating in family gatherings and traditions. It's essential to prioritize your mental health during this time and find a harmonious balance that works for you and your loved ones. Here are ten tips to help you have [...]