What is the microbiome? How might it be affecting your health? What can you do about it?Continue reading Health Resource: Introduction to the Microbiome
Reflection: The Reception of Wisdom
As we travel deeper into the depths of the human heart and ultimately the love of humanity, we have the unique gift of acquiring wisdom through our suffering. This piece reflects on this idea using my personal experience of struggling with a serious mental illness.Continue reading Reflection: The Reception of Wisdom
Personal Experience: The Insurance Tightrope Walk
Every time I tried to get my prescription filled, insurance kicked back that they needed “prior authorization” from my doctor. This happened every time I tried to get it filled, regardless if there was a change in dose or not.Continue reading Personal Experience: The Insurance Tightrope Walk
The Language of Mental Illness – An Interview with Board Member Prof. Renee R. Randall
Renee R. Randall, Ph.D., came to NAMI Washtenaw County with a deep personal interest in mental health issues which she has contributed to through her academic and professional careers. Continue reading The Language of Mental Illness – An Interview with Board Member Prof. Renee R. Randall
Mental Health Awareness – Raising the Issues
This month, reporter John Wm. Dunn spoke with NAMI Washtenaw volunteers and staff to understand why they believe it is important to raise awareness and break the stigma around mental health conditions.Continue reading Mental Health Awareness – Raising the Issues
Overcoming Bias: Tools to Help you Navigate Mental Health Resources
There’s a lot of information out there! Check out these tips from NAMI volunteer John Sepp to help you reflect on your biases and thought processes as you access mental health resources.Continue reading Overcoming Bias: Tools to Help you Navigate Mental Health Resources
Reflection: Finding Faith in Crisis
From personal experience, I know how hard it may be to find faith in the depths of a psychotic break or in the turmoil of a major relapse; however, I strongly encourage anyone who is in this situation and/or has any questions about their spirituality to seek and/or continue any professional help for your situation and consult a spiritual leader of your choice especially if you have never given much thought to your spiritual journey.Continue reading Reflection: Finding Faith in Crisis
Finding Hope in Love
In all my articles to date, I have presented my interpretation of some very abstract virtues such as hope and love; however, I would like for you to consider the fact that these virtues can be developed in very specific and concrete ways such as self-care, personal responsibility, and reading the testimonies of others who have experienced circumstances you may or may not have found yourself in.Continue reading Finding Hope in Love
The Role of an Advocate: An Interview with Mark Creekmore
NAMI Washtenaw County (NAMI WC) relies on the efforts of its advocacy team, headed up by Mark Creekmore, to promote justice and the general welfare for the most vulnerable populations in our county and across state, national, and even beyond our borders. Continue reading The Role of an Advocate: An Interview with Mark Creekmore
Recognizing Spencer Walz’ Contributions as a Volunteer
Don’t underestimate the power of getting involved with organizations like NAMI! It’s therapeutic to volunteer and to be around others who walked similar walks. It’s super scary and hard to reach out and get involved. It’s worth it to lean into getting involved and seeking out communities that support those that struggle with mental health rather than stigmatizing it! Continue reading Recognizing Spencer Walz’ Contributions as a Volunteer