Coast Mental Health’s Post

May is Mental Health Awareness month, and as service providers for people with developmental disabilities, we must recognize that mental health struggles are uniquely intertwined with disability. According to the CDC website page discussing the connection between developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, "A CDC study found that adults with disabilities report experiencing more mental distress than those without disabilities. In 2018, an estimated 17.4 million (32.9%) adults with disabilities experienced frequent mental distress, defined as 14 or more reported mentally unhealthy days in the past 30 days. Frequent mental distress is associated with poor health behaviors, increased use of health services, mental disorders, chronic disease, and limitations in daily life." Providing holistic and personalized care for people with developmental disabilities means we must plan for and develop strategies to help them accept and deal with their mental health battles in healthy ways. We must listen to and observe the people we support, rather than making assumptions about their behaviors. And of course, we will be there with them through the good days and the bad, serving as reminders that bad mental health days do not cancel out all the progress and ways you have grown!   #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #developmentaldisabilities

Societal expectations and stereotypes can mask autistic traits in women, leading to struggles in acceptance, mental health challenges, and the misconception that high-functioning autism is more common in men. #autism #autismawareness #autismacceptance #autistic #autismmom #autismfamily #autismlove #autismlife #autismsupport #autismspeaks #autismparents #love #mentalhealth #actuallyautistic #understandingautism

Neurodevelopmental differences, such as autism and dyslexia, were considered disabilities in the past, but in recent years the value of neurodiversity in society has been recognized and there's been a push towards better acceptance and inclusion.  As neurodiversity covers such a large population, it would be impossible to effectively address the mental health needs of the group as a whole. In this article, we look at how neurotech breakthroughs are further revolutionizing our understanding of neurodiversity and its connection with mental health. #weareeveolve #evolvetogether #mentalhealth

May is Mental Health Awareness month. 💚 The CDC reports that a recent study found individuals with developmental disabilities are 5x more likely to experience frequent mental distress than adults without disabilities. Envision is one of only 2 providers in the region that is dually certified by both the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and the Ohio Department of Mental Health. https://lnkd.in/gXTv4-CZ #Envision #SeeBeyondDisabilities #MentalHealthMatters #YourMindMatters #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth

🔍 Facing challenges during transition planning for youth with disabilities? Our latest topical paper sheds light on a crucial aspect often overlooked: Mental Health. "Considerations for Mental Health Support While Transition Planning" offers essential insights and strategies for educators, professionals, and families to integrate mental health support into transition planning effectively. Check it out today: https://lnkd.in/evDxacth In this paper, we share: 🔹 mental health prevalence among transition-age youth 🔹 the intersection of mental health and disability 🔹 strategies to support transition planning for youth with mental health needs

Hands up if you like how these oranges are arranged! No, it does not mean that you have OCD, but we all have our preferences on how we like things displayed. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate the distress caused by these thoughts. People with OCD often feel compelled to carry out these rituals, even when they know the behaviours are irrational, as it temporarily reduces anxiety. OCD can interfere with daily life, relationships, and routines, leading to significant distress. Treatment typically includes therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and in some cases, medication to help manage symptoms. #benjicare #disability #ndis #disabilityawareness #inclusion #specialneeds #accessibility #disabilityadvocate #disabilityrights #abilitynotdisability #diversity #autism #acceptance #community #support #inclusionmatters #goldcoastdisability #brisbanedisability

Mental health problems in people with learning disabilities: ensure you are up to date with current guidance with this learning module focused on general practice.

Sunday was the start to #InvisibleDisabilitiesWeek. Invisible Disabilities range the gambit from neurodiverse conditions like dyslexia and mental health conditions like anxiety to autoimmune disorders. Keep in mind that many who suffer do not Look or Act sick. Illness of any kind is a very personal and sensitive topic, and most do not wish for everyone to know for multiple reasons. One such reason is that most people typically respond with "you don't look sick" without meaning to be mean or hateful. Another reason is that some people want to then treat you differently; seeking sympathy or special treatment are not why most mention their condition. This post is to raise awareness for invisible disabilities. Just be kind and respectful as you do not know what others go through on a daily basis and no conditions are comparable to another. 💙💙

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY **Not All Disabilities Are Visible** When we think of disabilities, we often picture physical impairments, but the reality is that many disabilities aren't immediately apparent. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and countless others can deeply impact someone’s day-to-day life even if you can’t see them. It’s important to remember that invisible disabilities are just as real as visible ones. This is why compassion and understanding are crucial in creating truly inclusive environments. Small acts of kindness and empathy can make a big difference, both in and out of the workplace. Let’s challenge our assumptions and build a society that values and supports all individuals, regardless of whether we can “see” their struggles. #Inclusion #DisabilityAwareness #InvisibleDisabilities #SupportMatters #ptsd #mentalhealthmatters #asktwice

Invisible Disabilities Week, from October 20 to 26, highlights conditions that aren't always visible but profoundly impact lives. In Canada, millions live with invisible disabilities like chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and mental health disorders. These conditions can make daily tasks, such as work, social interactions, and self-care, incredibly challenging. Despite not being outwardly apparent, the struggles are very real and often misunderstood. This week, let’s raise awareness and foster empathy for those with invisible disabilities. By promoting understanding and support, we can make a significant difference in improving their quality of life. #InvisibleDisabilitiesWeek #InvisibleIllness #MentalHealthMatters #FibromyalgiaAwareness #ChronicFatigueSyndrome #DisabilityAwareness #InvisibleDisabilities #CanadaCaregiverCredit #ChildDisabilityBenefit #DisabilityTaxCredit #CanadaPensionPlanDisability #OntarioDisabilitySupportProgram