During the month of May we are promoting Mental Health Awareness, a cause that is near and dear to our hearts. VOICES has always been a staunch proponent of promoting resiliency through education and connecting individuals with resources that promote mental health wellness. Building awareness and destigmatizing treatment for mental health conditions is the first step. You may not be aware that one in five Americans are affected by a mental health condition in a given year, and mental health issues are prevalent among those impacted by traumatic events.
On March 28 and 29, VOICES hosted "Preparing for After: Planning for Effective Response Following Acts of Mass Violence" at Grace Farms, in New Canaan, CT. The trainings provided an overview of VOICES preparedness trainings that document best practices for community stakeholders in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from acts of mass violence.
As part of our efforts to assist communities impacted by other tragedies, on April 2 VOICES staff traveled to Parkland, Florida to participate in a Parkland Marjory Stoneman Douglas Community Peer Support Event. The peer event was organized by Mike Dempsey and the September 11th Education Trust, and included a delegation of victims' family members and survivors impacted by 9/11, the shootings at Columbine High School, Pulse Night Club, Las Vegas, the Aurora movie theatre, the Boston Marathon Bombing and the Israeli terrorist attacks. Learn More.
The heartbreaking news of the recent suicides of two Parkland students and the father of a child who was killed in the Sandy Hook shooting is a sobering reminder of the profound long-term impact these tragedies have on families, survivors, and the community-at-large.
Friday, March 15 is World Sleep Day. Quality sleep is essential to wellness, especially for those coping with physical and/or psychological conditions. Sleep disturbance is common among those living with trauma, grief, and medical conditions, and is prevalent in the 9/11 community. Sleep is crucial for promoting energy, concentration, and resilience. You can address sleep problems in many ways - you can seek medical advice for medications, you can seek psychotherapy, and an MD or therapist will both be able to help you with good sleep hygiene. Learn More.