Dear Advocates,

We know this time is challenging for Hoosiers across the state of Indiana. The outbreak of COVID-19 has created not only a physical health crisis, but also an increased need for mental health and substance use services. For the past few weeks, Mental Health America of Indiana has been monitoring the mental health needs for Hoosiers across the state. Included in our response, MHAI has adapted the approach we take in providing mental health and substance use services, making almost all of them virtual.

Right now, physical and social distancing is extremely important. Though in some cases, this can be extremely harmful to individuals living with mental health conditions or to those who may have a pre-disposition for developing mental health conditions. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that individuals with preexisting mental health conditions continue their treatment during the pandemic and be aware of possibly worsening symptoms caused by increased stress and anxiety. If you know someone living with a mental health condition or substance use disorder, we urge you to reach out to them virtually. Being mindful of your loved ones is important to their recovery.

I know many questions have remained unanswered during this time, though I do know this: everyone reacts differently during stressful times. Please share the resources provided in this email to your family, your friends and your community, and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Mental Health America of Indiana.

Thank you and be well,

Stephen C. McCaffrey, JD
President and CEO of Mental Health America of Indiana
Leadership 18, comprised of the nation’s largest social services nonprofits, today joined with a national collaboration of charities to issue a letter to Congress requesting a $60 billion infusion of support to help the nonprofit charitable sector continue to serve vulnerable families and communities in the wake of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 12 million workers in America's charities are on the frontlines of the coronavirus response, and the financial impact of the crisis has put the very survival of many essential service providers at risk," noted Steven C. Preston, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. "Charities are our society's shock absorber when crisis hits. Our workers provide essential immediate support such as food and shelter, are being called on to care for people whose lives have been disrupted by closures, job loss, and sickness, and we help people get back on their feet when it's time to recover."

Everywhere in America charitable organizations are already in place serving the needs of residents. Every dollar granted, donated, or earned goes back into the community immediately to address clear and present problems.

Mental Health America of Indiana urges all community members to contact your federal legislator TODAY in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Your time to obtain professional training in mental health and substance use disorder is NOW!
Earn or renew your substance use credential to assist those seeking recovery today!

ICAADA assists Indiana's most dedicated professionals with earning the credentials that will further their education in mental health and substance use services.

Earn Credentials Such As:


ACIT

CADAC (I through V)

CCJP

CPS

CCS

MATS

CAPRC (I or II)



We know you're working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why Mental Health America of Indiana is offering VIRTUAL TRAININGS!

COMING SOON!

Join our Strengths-Based approach virtual recovery gatherings!

Mental Health America of Indiana will be hosting a judgement-free collaboration for anyone contemplating or in recovery. MHAI will be launching a virtual peer destination soon, so be on the look-out and share with your community!

If you have questions or comments on our peer to peer program, please reach out to our Peer Supports Manager, Justin Beattey.
Looking for mental health or substance use care during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Don't worry, we have your back!
EmberWood Center is providing mental health and substance use therapy to  new  and existing clients  on home computers, tablets, and phones.
In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic and following guidelines of CDC, the Governor of Indiana, and the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addictions, the EmberWood Center has established a new protocol for treating our clients. In-person direct services have been suspended until further notice from the CDC, and tele-therapy will be offered instead. Clients can participate via their phones, tablets, or computers and they will be contacted with instructions by their counselors.
Please, be patient with us as we are navigating this new method of services provision and we are prioritizing our higher-need clients. Our staff is checking voicemails and will return calls as we receive them. 
Please, opt for contacting  [email protected]  with any questions or requests for services. Also follow the  EmberWood Facebook Page for more updates on tele-health services. Thank you!
If our services do not fit your mental health needs check out  SAMSHA's Tips For Social Distancing, Quarantine, And Isolation During An Infectious Disease Outbreak

Make sure you're staying up to date as we provide our community with a variety of mental health resources during the COVID-19 Pandemic!
Indiana 2-1-1 is in desperate need of volunteers to help man their call center lines as they have had a tremendous influx of need. Please see below for the indeed posting for their volunteer positions.

This work can be done remotely and only requires a brief training.

Volunteer Community Navigator  (Unpaid)

This volunteer opportunity allows you to help those in crisis prioritize their needs and then connect them to valuable community resources. Volunteers will work from the safety of their own home.
 
Community Navigator  (Paid)

Community Navigators help people to identify their goals, prioritize their needs, and connect them to valuable community resources. Community Navigators are skilled in helping individuals, families and providers identify, understand and effectively use the programs that are part of the human service delivery system. Community Navigators serve as knowledge brokers in health and human services by utilizing excellent communication skills, expertise and compassion to identify and provide high-quality resources.
Mental Health America of Indiana wants to provide the following resources with anyone who may be seeking them. We urge you to share our resources with your community during this challenging time. Thank you!
Mental Health America of Indiana is putting our Annual Symposium on HOLD due to COVID-19. Please stay tuned for further updates on our events!

Questions? Comments? Concerns? Please contact our event coordinator, Rebekah Gorrell .
The Mental Health America of Indiana staff thanks you for staying connected with us during this time. We appreciate your continued support in our mission for mental wellness and recovery for all Hoosiers.
Stay Connected With Us!
Follow our social media for more updates on our organization and recent mental health news.