During the month of May, we bring awareness to mental health matters. You don’t have to suffer alone. Our mental health is equally as important as our physical health. Our mental health is an unsolidified element of life. It includes our emotional well-being, our social relationships, our inner life, and our sense of self.
We come into the world with a brain ready for the world. Then our experiences, both prenatal and upon delivery, begin to leave their marks on it. Less than perfect genes may lie dormant under our best traits but may rage into action early on as a child and through our lifetime if untreated, such as when grief and stress reach critical proportions. When this happens, please seek professional help. I have provided a link below for resources you can use.
Four of the most prevalent mental health concerns are:
depression
anxiety
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
grief
While they may share certain attributes, each condition possesses its distinct characteristics and symptoms, necessitating unique approaches to treatment and support. Unblemished mental health means that the individual participates in the world fully and to the best of their ability. Each of us is unique. *None of us are perfect*
When our mental health is treated, our psychological well-being reflects it. We recognize our unique strengths and weaknesses. We are free to ask for the help and support we need so our problem-solving abilities are sufficient to meet any challenge we take on. Our sense of security and confidence can withstand challenge and hardship. We remain optimistic in the face of adversity, and we can offer our families, our careers, and the world our best. And please remember, you do not have to suffer alone.
Why is Mental Health Awareness Month important? Since its inception in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a cornerstone of addressing the mental health challenges faced by millions of Americans. This national movement is dedicated to eradicating stigma, extending support, and fostering public education.
You can contact us at any time toll-free at (866) 838-1598.
To stay updated on issues and legislative updates, please become a member today. To become a monthly donor, please click here, click "Donate", then check "Make this a monthly donation."
Helping Children Through New School Year Transitions
The 2023-2024 school year is about to end! Transition season is quickly approaching for students with disabilities in high school. "Transition” refers to the journey from high school student life to adult life. Transition planning can begin once a student turns 14 years old, but it is never too early to begin planning.
The TN Center for Decision-Making Support is a virtual resource center that parents, special educators, professionals, and students with disabilities can use to begin planning their futures. The TN Center for Decision-Making Support offers guidance on decision-making supports, legal documents such as conservatorship and powers of attorney, future planning, supported decision-making, and referrals for state resources. Reach out to us today to begin planning for your student!
Mobile Crisis Services Call 855-CRISIS-1 (855-274-7471) and you will be routed to a trained crisis specialist in your area.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline People can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. Call 988 and press 0 to be routed immediately to a crisis counselor.
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990
Upcoming Events
Students Get New Concession Stand
L.E.T.S. Students Learn Money Skills
Our L.E.T.S. students are practicing their skills with money. At the end of each class day, the students run and visit a concession stand in The Arc Mid-South office, where they can buy snacks and drinks. This gives them a chance to practice using their money wisely, paying for things, and receiving change.
Sponsor Corner
Hilton Corporation
Shout out to the Hilton Corporation for their donation this month to celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day. Observed each year on the third Thursday of May, GAAD focuses on digital access and inclusionfor the more than one billion people who live with disabilities.
Thank you, Hilton, for supporting our mission!
Summer Camps
STEM Summer Camp
Where: 2000 N Germantown Pkwy
Cordova, TN 38016
When: Monday, June 3, 9:00 AM through
Friday, June 14, 4:00 PM
Ages: 6-12
At Bodhi Learning Center, gestalt language processors (ages 2+) will receive evidence-based, child-led language therapy. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder are gestalt language processors and learn language differently. Play-based therapeutic activities are used to help children with ASD, Down Syndrome, and other neurodevelopmental disorders to improve overall communication.
Camp Conquest is a faith-based non-profit that offers summer camps for children and adults with special needs and disabilities. Our ministry is committed to helping campers conquer their fears through an adaptive camp experience.
The Brunswick Day Program is an intensive outpatient program for children and teens with high- functioning autism. The program provides a support environment designed for learning and pattern- based curriculum.
Our traditional day camp for Ages 5 - 12 provides an opportunity for children to build meaningful relationships and engage in unique experiences that only a camp environment can bring!
NEW: YMCA Creative Theatre and Art Camp
Ages: rising 4th - rising 8th grade
Over the course of eight weeks, campers are involved in all aspects of staging a play. Specialty workshops are held in set and costume design as well as voice, acting, and dance. The camp culminates in a performance for family and friends to enjoy, while mini showcases are held every Friday at camp.
To make sure that our program is the best fit for you and your child, please contact the YMCA’s Customer Support at 901-766-766 at the time of registration.
Join our Day Camp to make new friends, take field trips, and participate in service projects. Sign up for Sports Camps to work on your swing/shot/kick. Or take a LEAP class to learn how to play the piano, cook your favorite food, and more. Whatever you choose, you’ll make great summer memories this year at Harding.
Please email Saleama Ruvalcaba, or call (901) 767-5344 to discuss your camper's needs.
Join us for a good time you won't forget! The theme this summer is "Linked by Love." Campers will participate in team- building activities, build lasting connections, and embark on a journey of spiritual growth. This is a Christian-based experience.
Our goal is to provide students with a safe, structured, active, and fun-filled summer while helping them connect with peers in the local community. Some weekly activities include: dance, art, fitness, water days/swimming, field trips, and more! You will receive more details once your student is enrolled in Camp Connect.
Camp Able is a nationally known camp serving children and adults with disabilities, or "diverse-abilities." Each June, we host a traditional day camp that offers many outdoor and indoor activities for your camper in a safe and nurturing environment with a camper/counselor ratio of 1:1. Your camper will climb, zip, slide in the mud, canoe, swim, fish, hike, and make new friends at St. Columba near Memphis, Tennessee.
Is your child horse crazy? Our camp is a great way to ride every day while learning about horse health, care, and safety. Arts and crafts and water activities (weather permitting) round out the experience. We welcome all campers, including those who are on the autistic spectrum or need one-on-one assistance. Riders are divided into appropriate groups based on age and skill level, whether they are jumping courses or have never ridden a horse before! Participants over the age of 12 are encouraged to contact us to learn about horsemanship and riding opportunities geared towards older riders.
Disability Rights Tennessee is a non-profit legal advocacy organization dedicated to protecting the rights of Tennesseans with disabilities. DRT provides support, resources, advocacy, and legal representation, all for FREE.
