Programs

Think about what you do best. Are you creative, a musician? Do you cook well? Were you a star athlete in high school, and do you still try to stay in shape? Maybe you are very cerebral and well-studied. You are humble enough to know you have weaknesses, but see your strength as your contribution to the world. Something you can fall back on and say you are good at, even in the face of other challenges you may face in life.

Imagine a world in which not only are you not recognized for your strengths, but your strengths are actually seen as weaknesses. Ever since you were a kid, people assumed your strength was a weakness, and you know that there will always be people who make that assumption until the day that you die, no matter how hard you work at your strength or how many accolades you receive.

There is a widespread misconception that most people with physical disabilities also have intellectual disabilities. Statistics show that this is not the case. Common physical disabilities include cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and muscular dystrophy. Around 50-70% of people with cerebral palsy do not have any intellectual or learning disabilities, according to the www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/cerebral-palsy and www.cerebralpalsy.org/information/cognition Estimates show that around 70% of people with muscular dystrophy do not have any intellectual or learning disabilities, according to the www.mda.org/quest/article/when-neuromuscular-disease-affects-the-brain. According to the www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/spinabifida/conditioninfo/di..., 80% of people with spina bifida do not have any intellectual or learning disabilities. These statistics do not include many other forms of physical disability, including, but not limited to, physical disability as a result of chronic illness or injury.

The truth is that not only do most people with physical disabilities not have intellectual disabilities, but many of us have above-average intelligence. Like a blind person with strong hearing or a deaf person who can see well, people with physical disabilities often use their intelligence to compensate for their weaknesses.

As a child, I was not playing on sports teams or dancing in recitals. I was reading, working on homework, and trying to win academic awards. It’s what I knew I could do well, and gosh darn, I was going to excel at it. For most of my academic career, I was not in special education classrooms. I was in Honors classrooms.

This is not to say people with physical disabilities are better than those with intellectual disabilities or that intellectual disability is a valid reason to treat someone poorly. Every person-whether physically disabled, intellectually disabled, or both, deserves to be recognized for their strengths and accommodated for their weaknesses. (According to the www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/intellectual-disability..., 85% of those with intellectual disabilities only have a mild intellectual disability. Also, even those with severe intellectual disabilities have value as human beings.)

This is about the many times I’ve overheard people whisper in shock, “Jen’s actually smart.” This is about people speaking more slowly or over-explaining things to my friends and me. This is about employers making pre-judgements about candidates with visible disabilities. This is about how many accessible recreational activities, social activities, and even church programs for people with disabilities are geared toward those with intellectual disabilities or even children. (At times, the leaders of such programs assume grown adults with physical disabilities need their parent’s permission to participate.)

This is about the strengths of people with physical disabilities being mistaken for our weaknesses.

I’ve been saying for months now that I can’t do this and it’s too much and I don’t wanna do this and they keep giving me more meds and more advice and more programs to go to and I don’t feel suicidal but I don’t feel like I can do this anymore and I don’t know what to do. I want to hide and run away but I have nowhere to go and I miss my kids and my house and my dogs but I don’t know if I can take care of myself anymore.

I am struggling right now. Pretty badly.

Has anyone else noticed that if you're under 30, there's all sorts of assistance programs for health challenges, education, and employment. And after you're 60, there's all sorts of assistance to help one through the difficulties of aging.

But if you're between 31 and 59, apparently you don't need assistance because you've got your shit together, and people in that demographic don't suffer from health/employment/education barriers?

I am so tired of struggling all the time.

#MentalHealth #Anxiety #Depression #PTSD #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder

Part 1 of 2 SMILE Mass has launched a fundraising campaign to build a “Community within a Community” to help bring a sense of equity and inclusion to the severely disabled population.

“For the average person, Covid is behind us, but for most people with disabilities it is still very rea,” explained SMILE Mass Founder and president Lotte Diomede. “This has continued to put a tremendous amount of stress and financial burden on so many families due to the work force shortage and lack of programs that existed prior to the pandemic. It is a national crisis.”

Both founders of SMILE Mass, Lotte Diomede and Susan Brown, are raising kids with severe disabilities and know first-hand the importance of a consistent schedule and programs for kids and adults with disabilities. With that, Club SMILE Mass was born during the first several weeks of the Covid outbreak. Club Smile Mass was one of the first organizations to offer meaningful adaptive classes remotely via Zoom.

Today, Club SMILE Mass is one of SMILE Mass’ fastest growing programs and continues to offer hybrid classes to stimulate clients mentally and physically. Classes include access to one-on-one training and small group classes, swimming classes at LA Fitness in Natick, MA, and seven-day-per-week access to any LA Fitness in Massachusetts. The program also includes music classes, story time, Bingo games, small group workout classes via Zoom, and bike evaluations performed by a Physical Therapist. All trainers of Club SMILE Mass are fully trained and certified.

“Through Club SMILE Mass, we are providing much needed daily activities with a focus on movement. There are no existing clubs for someone with disabilities, which is a huge problem, and this is where Club SMILE Mass comes in. When we launched the program in 2021, we organized a group of experienced caregivers and trainers to create a consistent weekly schedule of physical and educational activities designed for the severely disabled,” explained Lotte. We approached a national health club and secured the space to execute these activities. In the first month we serviced seven clients in person, grew to 21 in the second month, and the rest is history. Today we service over 60 members with a wait list.”

“We always knew there was a need for these types of services but yet again we are at a cross road and growing fast. This has now put us in a place where using outside space has become cumbersome. Our clients deserve a well-rounded program with the right amenities. Working in a leased space comes with obstacles as we have to fit our programs in with a facility’s already existing schedule and programs”.

Although we are grateful to have launched Club SMILE Mass at LA Fitness, we are already outgrowing that space and therefore eager to create our own space. We are currently exploring a piece of land in the MetroWest area that we would love to call our “A Community within a Community – Club Smile Mass.”

Lotte continued, “We envision this space to become fully accessible with a universal design concept allowing anyone with or without a disability to travel with ease throughout the community. The plan is to hold all of our programs in one place to optimize utilization of adaptive equipment, space, staffing and ultimately providing a more consistent program that is both efficient and financially responsible, while allowing our clients to maximize all of our programs throughout.”

“The Community Within a Community will provide much needed sustainability, control of our schedule and financial growth for SMILE Mass. We believe by owning our own space we can grow in a healthy, steady manner reaching a larger population throughout Massachusetts, which has always been our ultimate goal. We don’t believe that anyone should be without services just because they have a disability.”

As a mother of a child with a severe disability Lotte stay up at night worried about who is going to take care of her son Nicholas, when she no longer can. This is where the “Community Within a Community” comes in. She envisions this program to be the future of how programs will be presented and offered to families throughout the Commonwealth whom are raising kids and adults with disabilities.

The Community Within a Community is often referred to as “A Place Like No Other.” The proposed facility will be on 30+ wooded acres on the Framingham/Sudbury line. It will include individual classrooms for one-on-one learning and activities with spaces that limit external and overwhelming stimuli.

In 2009, Lotte and SMILE Mass co-founder Susan Brown, set out to build an adapted playground in Sudbury after Lotte found that Nicholas could not enter, let alone play on the existing

Do you watch the TV news or listen to radio news? These days I do not, ever! (If I can help it) If I'm trapped in a waiting room with it I'll probably even try to go elsewhere if I know I have time, or even ask someone if I can have it changed channel or turned off. Doing this is a big change for me.

I was brought up by people who watched and listened to radio and TV news and considered it as a kind of civic duty. Opting out of "the news," on a therapist's sugestion, durring my most recent mental health chrisis, felt like I was doing something rather unpatriotic, maybe even "wrong." I got firmly (but not offensively) negative feedback on having done this from family too.

I do get "real" news still, from mainstream sourses, but mostly over various internet platforms. I don't use much social media either. This is social media technically, but I chucked facebook, instagram and co. in the same great stress cleaning that also booted the news.

So what do I look for? I keep choosing a much lower percentage of politics and legal type stuff in particular. I find I can actually get the same feeling of basic awareness (certainly all I really need to know) about hot button issues, elections, court cases etc. By reading just a few articals, as long as I choose good ones. Usually this just means pick something relavant near the top of what google gives me from the online portal of a random major newspaper.

Algorythems, and sneeky clickbate junk, means the internet has issues too. I try to be careful what I choose, and check who writes it. The big gain here is that my brain plays much nicer with news that includes a wider range of subjects. I like science news in particular... but people doing art, lit, medicine, novel kinds of business, social, comunity inovations and efforts...etc. are all interesting too. Turns out I'm quite a wide ranging geek.

I'm finding I'm interested in a bunch of stuff that certainly is news, and does matter. I'm not missing what's usually on "the news" either. Still, most of this stuff I'm running accross hardly ever got on "the news."

It also turns out my mental illness deffinitely gets better in absense of "the news" too. It's anoying to know that the world can give me significant amounts of stress vaya a familliar voice repeating familliar kinds of facts about something remote but upsetting (Perpetually offended politicians, the war in Ukraine etc.) And this is enough to raise my level of mental discomfort considerably, all by itself. This seems to be exactly what happens though.

This is hardly a new idea but I was still surprised how true it seems to be for me in practice. I suspect the way the TV and radio programs focus on that pretty narrow range of issues pretty repetatively (and most of the chosen issues are very overtly competative and contentious ones at that) really does unhelpful things to my already rather obsessive and easily/overly concerned kind of brain.

#PTSD #PTSDSupportAndRecovery #BorderlinePersonalityDisorderBPD #Addiction #Anxiety #MentalHealth

Part 1 of 2 Welcome to a comprehensive guide on the topic of bullying – a behavior that affects millions of people worldwide. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of meaning bullying, shedding light on what it truly is and what it isn’t. Bullying has become a pressing issue in today’s society, with devastating consequences for victims and far-reaching implications for communities.

By understanding the various forms and nuances of bullying, we can better equip ourselves to combat this pervasive problem. Through an exploration of different scenarios and common misconceptions, we will uncover the true nature of bullying and the impact it has on individuals of all ages. Whether you’re a concerned parent, an educator, or simply interested in creating a safer environment, this article will provide valuable insights and practical strategies to address bullying effectively. So, let’s embark on this journey to demystify bullying and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Understanding the different types of bullying

Bullying can manifest in various forms, and it is crucial to recognize and understand these different types to effectively address the issue. Physical bullying involves physical aggression, such as hitting, kicking, or pushing someone. Verbal bullying, on the other hand, includes name-calling, insults, and hurtful comments intended to demean and belittle the victim. Social bullying involves manipulating social relationships and intentionally excluding or spreading rumors about someone. Lastly, cyberbullying has emerged as a prevalent form of bullying in the digital age, where individuals use technology, such as social media platforms, to harass, intimidate, or humiliate others.

It is important to note that bullying is not limited to just one form. Often, perpetrators employ a combination of tactics to exert power and control over their victims. By understanding the different types of bullying, we can develop strategies to address each specific form and create safer environments for everyone involved.

The impact of bullying on individuals

Bullying can have severe and long-lasting effects on the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of individuals. Victims of bullying often experience heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. They may struggle academically, lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, and have difficulty forming and maintaining relationships. The impact of bullying is not limited to the immediate victims; witnesses and bystanders may also suffer from feelings of guilt, fear, and helplessness.

Furthermore, the effects of bullying can extend well into adulthood. Research has shown that individuals who were bullied during their childhood are more likely to experience mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, in their adult years. They may also have difficulty trusting others and forming healthy relationships. It is crucial to recognize the long-term consequences of bullying and take proactive steps to address and prevent it.

Myths and misconceptions about bullying

There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding bullying that can hinder our ability to effectively address the issue. One common misconception is that bullying is simply a part of growing up, and victims should toughen up or learn to deal with it. This belief not only trivializes the experiences of victims but also perpetuates the cycle of abuse. Bullying is not a normal part of childhood, and it is our responsibility as a society to create safe and inclusive environments for all individuals.

Another myth is that bullying only occurs among children and teenagers. While bullying is prevalent in schools, it can also occur in workplaces, online communities, and even within families. Bullying is a behavior that transcends age and can affect individuals at any stage of life. By debunking these myths and misconceptions, we can better understand the true nature of bullying and take appropriate action to prevent and address it.

Identifying the signs of bullying

Recognizing the signs of bullying is crucial in addressing the issue effectively. Victims of bullying may exhibit various behavioral, emotional, and physical signs. They may become withdrawn, anxious, or display changes in their academic performance. Physical signs, such as unexplained injuries or frequent illnesses, can also indicate that someone is being bullied.

It is important to note that not all victims of bullying display obvious signs, and some may go to great lengths to hide their experiences. Therefore, it is essential to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable speaking up about their experiences. By being vigilant and observant, we can ident

Part 2 of 2 ify the signs of bullying and offer the necessary support and intervention.The role of bystanders in bullying situations

Bystanders play a crucial role in bullying situations. They have the power to either reinforce or disrupt the cycle of abuse. Many individuals who witness bullying may feel unsure of how to intervene or may fear becoming targets themselves. However, by empowering bystanders and providing them with the knowledge and tools to intervene safely, we can create a collective effort to combat bullying.

Bystanders can intervene directly by speaking up against the bullying behavior, offering support to the victim, or seeking help from a trusted adult. They can also intervene indirectly by reporting the incident to a teacher, supervisor, or authority figure. By encouraging bystanders to take action, we can create a culture of accountability and discourage bullying behavior.

Strategies for preventing and addressing bullying

Preventing and addressing bullying requires a multi-faceted approach that involves individuals, families, schools, and communities. Education plays a crucial role in prevention efforts. Schools should implement comprehensive anti-bullying programs that educate students, teachers, and parents about the different forms of bullying, its impact, and strategies for prevention and intervention.

Creating a safe and inclusive environment is also essential in preventing bullying. Schools and workplaces should have clear policies and procedures in place to address bullying incidents promptly and effectively. By fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and kindness, we can create environments where bullying is less likely to occur.

In addition to preventive measures, it is important to provide support and resources for victims of bullying. Counseling services, peer support groups, and helplines can offer a safe space for victims to seek help and guidance. By offering a comprehensive support system, we can empower victims and help them overcome the challenges they face.

The importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment

Creating a safe and inclusive environment is crucial in addressing and preventing bullying. Schools, workplaces, and communities must work together to foster an atmosphere of respect, empathy, and acceptance. It is essential to promote diversity and celebrate individual differences, creating a sense of belonging for all individuals.

Education plays a vital role in creating a safe environment. By incorporating anti-bullying curriculum into schools, we can teach students about the negative impact of bullying and equip them with the skills to intervene and support their peers. Similarly, workplaces can provide training sessions and resources to educate employees about the importance of respectful communication and behavior.

It is also important to remember that creating a safe environment is an ongoing process. Regular assessments, open communication channels, and collaboration among all stakeholders are key to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment where bullying is not tolerated.

Do you know what is the greatest predictor of a good outcome in therapy? It’s the relationship a client has with their therapist. Studies have shown that a positive relationship with solid rapport and trust is the greatest predictor of a positive therapeutic outcome. Finding the right therapist for YOU is imperative. Different therapists have different styles and strengths just like different clients have different needs. But how do you find the right therapist for you? Simple – a complimentary consultation.

Therapists in private practice often offer a complimentary consultation, usually around 15 min, where you can talk to the therapist before deciding to move forward and start therapy. Not all therapists offer this, and some will offer something slightly different (such as answering questions via email instead), but for those whose schedule allows them to do so, they often do. Many clients don’t know how to approach these consultations, which could lead them to feeling more confused and unsure if the therapist is the right fit at the end of a consultation. Below I provide 5 tips to approach consultations so you walk away feeling a little more confident in deciding if a potential therapist might be a good fit for you.

1. Ask about credentials/treatment modalities

In order to be a licensed therapist, basic requirements need to be met. For instance, I graduated with a masters degree in clinical psychology from a state (California) accredited masters program. Then I completed the requirements to receive a state license that I have to renew every two years while completing my continuing education requirements. I also have further training though. I’ve been trained in EMDR and am a Beck Certified CBT Clinician. Asking about a therapists credentials gives you more of an idea of what to expect in therapy.

As far as experience, I’ve worked in community mental health and various treatment programs including residential programs, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, as well as private practice. I utilize several treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, person centered, and humanistic based on need and can detail more about therapeutic theory if asked in a consultation. Remember, a consultation is meant to talk in broader terms about expertise, treatment, and the therapist’s approach, and then when you start therapy during the initial sessions it becomes much more tailored.

2. Ask if they treat issues that you would like to work on in therapy

There are so many areas a therapist can specialize in, and making sure the therapist you’re thinking of seeing specializes in what you want to work on can be extremely helpful. And if for any reason the therapist feels like the wrong match because of this, you can always ask if the therapist knows of any other therapists specializing in what you want to work on.

3. Ask about scheduling and fees

It’s required by law that a therapist discloses their fees prior to starting treatment. So if they haven’t already shared that information, a consultation is a good time to ask. Also, as far as scheduling, a lot of therapists have office hours that are outside the 8-5 Monday thru Friday, but not all do, so it’s also a good time to ask about scheduling and office hours. If you find a therapist you feel is a great match but doesn’t have availability when you have availability or isn’t in your price range, that can be incredibly frustrating, so asking these things early can be helpful.

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