January 2025

Dear Friends of MHA Dubuque County,

Welcome to the latest Mental Health America of Dubuque County newsletter! We are dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving all community members' access to quality mental health care. In this issue, you'll find information on upcoming events, resources for mental health support, and updates on our ongoing initiatives.

National Mental Wellness Month

This month is an important time to focus on mental health awareness. We encourage everyone to learn more about mental health disorders and to seek support if needed.

You may have heard of "Blue Monday," often considered the "saddest day of the year." This typically falls on the third Monday of January. It serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care, especially during winter months.

Let's prioritize mental well-being this January. Remember, you are not alone. If you're struggling, please reach out to our organization or other local resources for support.

Mental Health America NEWS

Mental health during global conflict

Global conflict can significantly impact our mental health, even if we aren't directly involved. Common reactions include grief, fear, anger, and sadness. It's important to remember that these feelings are normal. Seeking support from loved ones and utilizing personal coping mechanisms are crucial for mental well-being during such times.

Crisis Resource Center

Facing a crisis, whether it's a personal mental health struggle, the aftermath of a disaster, or the impact of violence or discrimination, can be overwhelming. This resource hub provides valuable information and tools to help you navigate these challenging times and support your journey towards healing and recovery.

For more information, visit MHA National

SAMHSA

WATCH & Learn More HERE!

In January, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will be kicking off the FIRST national Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month – a time to raise awareness of the benefits and availability of evidence-based treatments for people with a substance use disorder. Many people view January as a time to take stock, reset, and take steps toward healthier living. Find out more information and resources that can help support treatment and recovery from a substance use disorder.

Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month serves to support:

People contemplating or seeking help for their substance use
Practitioners treating or considering treating substance use disorder
Friends, family, and loved ones of those with substance use conditions

By raising awareness of treatment, including medications to treat substance use disorders, SAMHSA seeks to:

Eliminate stigma surrounding treatment, including medications used to treat substance use disorders
Encourage those on their treatment and recovery journey
Promote best practices such as screening, intervention, and treatment of substance use disorders by healthcare providers

NAMI Dubuque

World Health Organization Cervical Health Initiative

January is Cervical Health / Cancer Awareness Month

Cervical Health Awareness Month in January is a time to create awareness about cervical cancer prevention and treatment. The World Health Organization has a plan for the elimination of cervical cancer through vaccination and screening. This January, learn more about cervical health and cervical cancer prevention and take steps to help eliminate this preventable cancer.

Learn more About the IHHS Systems Realignment HERE

Informational Sessions About New Administrative Rules for Behavioral Health and Aging & Disability Services

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (Iowa HHS) announces four upcoming public informational sessions focused on the new administrative rules for Behavioral Health and Aging & Disability Services. These new rules are proposed to be adopted as a result of the 2024 Iowa Acts, House File 2673, which realigned Iowa’s existing Mental Health and Disability Services system. These sessions aim to provide attendees with an understanding of:

How the new administrative rules will differ from existing administrative rules.
A timeline for implementation of the new administrative rules.
Future opportunities to provide feedback on the new administrative rules.

Whether you're a service provider, stakeholder, advocate, or community member, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to gain valuable insight into the new rules. The events will be held with live captions. Events are recorded and will be posted with supporting materials on https://hhs.iowa.gov/initiatives/system-alignment.

Session Details:

Aging & Disability Services Session 1

Date: Tuesday, January 14
Time: 11:30 p.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1601549517

Behavioral Health Session 1

Date: Tuesday, January 14
Time: 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1615043058

Aging & Disability Services Session 2

Date: Thursday, January 16
Time: 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1604989218

Behavioral Health Session 2

Date: Thursday, January 16
Time: 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1608843222

More Information & Session Recordings HERE

info@mhadbq.org