Introducing the N.J. Disability Information Hub (DIH)

SPAN is excited to introduce you to the New Jersey Disability Information Hub (DIH), an all-inclusive online resource designed to support individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers throughout the state.

The DIH offers a wealth of information about programs, services, and resources available across New Jersey. It includes user-friendly tools like Quick Start Guides to assist individuals in navigating important topics such as housing, employment, education, and healthcare.

We believe the DIH can be a valuable resource for individuals and families across the state. You can explore the Hub and its offerings by clicking here.

Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities

Do you know about N.J.’s Register Ready? 

This registry, from the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, helps people with disabilities prepare for natural disasters and other emergencies like power outages. Local officials notify people with disabilities when there is a need to evacuate. Emergency managers and first responders can also help those with access and functional needs during a disaster.

Register Ready is confidential, free, and helps first responders (EMTs, police, fire) plan and support people with disabilities. Register here.

Managing Life with Serious Mental Illness

This third week of Mental Illness Awareness Month, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is focusing on serious mental illnesses.

What are serious mental illnesses?Mental illnesses are disorders that affect a person’s thinking, mood, and/or behavior —and they can range from mild to severe. According to the National Institute on Mental Health, nearly one-in-five adults live with a mental illness. A mental illness that interferes with a person’s life and ability to function is called a serious mental illness (SMI). With the right treatment, people with SMI can live productive and enjoyable lives.

There are many kinds of serious mental illnesses. Common ones include:

• Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes intense shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. People have manic episodes in which they feel extremely happy or euphoric, and energized. Usually, they also have depressive episodes in which they feel deeply sad and have low energy.
• Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental disorders. Symptoms vary from person to person, but may include sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, pessimism, irritability, worthlessness, and fatigue. These symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy their life.
• Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that causes people to interpret reality abnormally. People may experience hallucinations, delusions, extremely disordered thinking and a reduced ability to function in their daily life.

To learn more, access SMI fact sheets, and watch videos on support and treatment for SMI, click here.