Category: Preventative Care & Wellness

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Fund Office is promoting the NYCDCCBF’s Member Education and Network for Dependency (“MEND”) Program.

---

What is MEND?

The MEND Program was created to help NYCDCC members and families address mental health and substance use issues.

The MEND program is free and available to all NYCDCC members and their dependents, including children.

---

Why Reach Out to MEND? 

MEND can help those who are:

– Mourning the loss of a family member, friend, or co-worker

– Undergoing life changes such as divorce, financial challenges, illness, or injury

– Feeling depressed or anxious

– Using substances to cope with stress

– Having trouble sleeping, concentrating, or working due to stress

---

How Can MEND Help Me?

Our MEND counselors are available to talk in-person or by phone and can help you figure out the next steps in providing support. This includes referrals for therapy, psychiatry, and treatment for substance use.

---

Is MEND Confidential?

Yes. MEND is a confidential program led by accredited staff. There is no shame in asking for help, and your right to privacy and safety are respected.

---

Where Can I Learn More About MEND?

Visit our website’s MEND page: /news-media/mend-program-and-wellness/

---

Contact MEND

Phone: (212) 366-7590

Email: MEND@nyccbf.org

Office: 395 Hudson Street, 5^th Floor, New York, NYC 10014

There are many types of behavioral health professionals. Below is a listing of the types of professionals, including their areas of expertise and training, to help you select the type of treatment that is right for you.

• Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who have completed psychiatric training. They can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe, and monitor medications. 
• Licensed Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology. Psychologists are trained in research and psychological and/or neuropsychological testing. Psychologists are also trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy. 
• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (“LCSW”) have a master’s degree in social work. They are trained to diagnose mental disorders and provide individual, family, and group therapy. They are also trained in case management and advocacy.
• Licensed Mental Health Counselors (“LMHC”) hold a master’s degree in counseling. They provide behavioral health services to individuals, families, and groups.
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (“LMFT”) have either a master’s or doctoral level degree. They provide therapy for couples and families.
• Board Certified Behavior Analysts (“BCBA”) have a master’s degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis. They work with individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities.
• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (“CASAC”) are certified to work specifically with individuals with Substance Use Disorder through individual counseling and group therapy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you are struggling to manage your emotional health, reach out for support. You are not alone!

For assistance with referrals and resources contact MEND 212-366-7590 or MEND@NYCCBF.org. If you are thinking of hurting yourself, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (“SAMHSA”), approximately 50 million American adults consider themselves to be in recovery from substance use and/or mental health problems. This National Recovery Month, the NYCDCC Fund Office is offering resources and support to our members and their dependents who are looking to better their lives through recovery.

What is Recovery?

SAMHSA defines recovery as follows: “a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.”

While recovery is a personal process and can take many different forms, SAMHSA outlines the following as “The Four Major Dimensions of Recovery”:

Health – Overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) or symptoms – for example, abstaining from use of alcohol, illicit drugs, and non-prescribed medication if one has an addiction problem- and for everyone in recovery making informed, healthy choices that support physical and emotional well-being.

Home – Having a stable and safe place to live.

Purpose – Conducting meaningful daily activities, such as a job, school volunteerism, family caretaking, or creative endeavors, and the independence, income, and resources to participate in society.

Community – Having relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.

To learn more, visit the Recovery and Recovery Support page on SAMHSA’s website here: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/recovery

NYCDCC and The MEND Program

In 2016, as part of our effort to strengthen and support the NYCDCC community, the Fund Office launched the Members Education and Network for Dependency (“MEND”) Program. The goal of the MEND Program is to provide assistance to participants and dependents in addressing substance abuse and mental health issues through the following services:

– Referrals to appropriate level of treatment including inpatient and outpatient treatment for all substances and mental health issues.

– Case management and Coordination of Services with outside providers.

– Supportive services and Education.

We encourage you to learn more by reading the flyer below and visiting our MEND page: /news-media/mend-program-and-wellness/

If you or one of your dependents is struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, please contact the MEND Program for assistance from our accredited staff. The MEND program can be reached by phone at (212) 366-7590 or by email at MEND@nyccbf.org. Please remember that there is no shame in asking for help, that MEND operates under strict confidentiality restrictions, and that we are here to help you and your family.

Beginning in 1989, National Recovery Month has been observed every September to promote and support treatment and recovery practices for those experiencing substance use issues. The NYCDCC Benefit Funds is raising awareness for our members by sharing information on the recovery process, as well as highlighting the Members Education & Network for Dependency (“MEND”) Program.

What is Recovery?

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (“SAMHSA”) defines recovery as “a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.”

The Four Major Dimensions of Recovery

SAMHSA outlines the four major dimensions of recovery as follows:

Health – Overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) or symptoms – for example, abstaining from use of alcohol, illicit drugs, and non-prescribed medication if one has an addiction problem- and for everyone in recovery making informed, healthy choices that support physical and emotional well-being.

Home – Having a stable and safe place to live.

Purpose – Conducting meaningful daily activities, such as a job, school volunteerism, family caretaking, or creative endeavors, and the independence, income, and resources to participate in society.

Community – Having relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.

To learn more, visit the Recovery and Recovery Support page on SAMHSA’s website here: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/recovery

The MEND Program

As a part of its focus on fostering a healthy work and life-balance for its members and their dependents, the NYCDCC Welfare Fund launched the MEND Program, which gives participants and their dependents access to confidential treatment for substance abuse and mental health issues.

You can learn more about the MEND Program by visiting the MEND homepage here: /news-media/mend-program-and-wellness/

If you or one of your dependents is struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, please contact the MEND Program for assistance from our accredited staff. The MEND program can be reached by phone at (212) 366-7590 or by email at MEND@nyccbf.org. Please remember that there is no shame in asking for help, that MEND operates under strict confidentiality restrictions, and that we are here to help you and your family.

May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and the New York City District Council of Carpenters Welfare Fund would like to highlight our Members Education and Network for Dependency (“MEND”) Program.

The MEND Program is designed specifically for NYCDCC members and their dependents to help them address mental health issues and substance use. Led by our accredited staff, MEND is a free, confidential program that assists members in identifying treatment needs, and referring them to appropriate mental health professionals. Please visit our MEND homepage to learn more about the program and to schedule an appointment. The MEND office can be reached by phone at (212) 366-7590.

Additional Resources:

Mental Health Awareness Month and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/mental-health-awareness-month/

April is Stress Awareness Month, and the NYCDCC Benefit Funds would like to share information that can be helpful for our members and their families. Stress is a fact of life, but being aware of what causes stress and how we react to it can lead to happier, healthier lives.

Dr. Krystal Lewis, a licensed psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health, has developed the “GREAT” acronym to break down helpful practices that can help manage stress and anxiety.

GREAT stands for:

Grateful

Relaxation

Exercise

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Track Your Thoughts

These practices aren’t meant to eliminate stressors, but rather increase one’s ability to manage and deal with stress physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Grateful

When a stressful situation occurs, it’s important to remember that there are still positive aspects in your life. Dr. Lewis recommends finding small things each day for which you can be grateful. This might be a partner, a friend, a pet, a favorite book, or a nice meal.

Relaxation

By relaxing your mind and body, you can lower your anxiety levels and refresh your ability to deal with stress. Make sure you give yourself daily breaks to take care of yourself. Everyone has their own way of relaxing, but common techniques include deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and listening to calm music.

Exercise

Your physical and mental health are connected. Exercise can be a very healthy way to process stress. This includes lifting weights, cardiovascular activity, playing sports, and incorporating physical activity into everyday life. If you’re in the midst of a particularly stressful situation, allow yourself time to go for a walk or run.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Stress is natural, and so are many of the feelings people respond with: worry, sadness, anger, confusion, etc. Noticing what you’re feeling is an important step that often goes unchecked. When you can accept and acknowledge your feelings, you’re more likely to respond to stress in a more effective way.

Track Your Thoughts

Stressful situations can make your mind race as you feel mentally overwhelmed. Dr. Lewis recommends taking note of your thoughts. Reflecting and journaling are two ways to practice this. As you become more familiar with your thinking patterns and negative thoughts, you’ll likely find it easier to engage in helpful thinking.

---

For many people, talk therapy or Cognitive Based Therapy (“CBT”) are helpful ways to process and manage stress. Remember: seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.

The NYCDCC Members Education and Network for Dependency (MEND) Program can help you and your dependents with referrals to appropriate levels of treatment. You can learn more about the MEND Program here: /news-media/mend-program-and-wellness/

Sources:

NIMH Expert Dr. Krystal Lewis Discusses Managing Stress & Anxiety – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (nih.gov)

GREAT: Helpful Practices to Manage Stress and Anxiety – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (nih.gov)

October 1st-7th is National Mental Illness Awareness Week and the New York City District Council of Carpenters Welfare Fund, in an effort to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and to provide support to those seeking treatment, would like to promote this cause to our members and their dependents. 

Did you know that 1 in 5 US adults experience mental illness each year, and 1 in 20 adults experience a serious mental illness? In New York State alone, over 2.8 million adults have a mental health condition- that’s more than 10 times the population of Buffalo. Common mental illness diagnoses include anxiety disorders, major depression, addiction/substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”). 

According to a 2023 report from Mental Health America, 56% of adults with mental illness have not received any mental health treatment. Individuals may face many barriers when attempting to receive treatment, such as a shortage of mental health professionals, lack of insurance/affordable treatment, social stigma, and the lack of education and awareness regarding mental health.

The Fund Office is encouraging our members to be more active in fighting the social stigma of mental illness by doing the following:

– Meet with a medical professional to discuss your mental health and potential treatment options,

– Educate yourself about mental health (we’ve included some resources at the bottom of this article),

– Speak openly about your mental health with your family and close friends,

– Check in with your co-workers about their mental health. (Asking someone how they’re doing, listening, and sharing your own experiences all go a long way),

– Be conscious of language regarding mental health,

– Show compassion for those with mental illness and for those serving as caretaker for someone with mental illness,

– Focus on empowerment over shame, for yourself and for others.

We would also like to remind you of the Members Education and Network for Dependency (“MEND”) program, designed to provide members and their dependents access to confidential treatment for mental health issues and substance use. MEND is a confidential program led by licensed clinicians, and is provided at no cost to members and their dependents. Our accredited staff offers assessment, support, and referrals for both inpatient and outpatient treatment.

If you or one of your dependents is struggling with substance use or mental health, please contact the MEND Program at 212-366-7590 or MEND@nyccbf.org, or visit the MEND office at 395 Hudson Street, 5th Floor, New York, New York, 10014.

To learn more about the MEND program, please visit the MEND homepage at /news-media/mend-program-and-wellness/

 

Additional Resources:

Mental Health Facts and Statistics: https://mhanational.org/mentalhealthfacts

Mental Health in New York: https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/StateFactSheets/NewYorkStateFactSheet.pdf

Ways to Fight Mental Health Stigma: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/October-2017/9-Ways-to-Fight-Mental-Health-Stigma

Dealing with Internalized Stigma: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/April-2022/Fighting-Internalized-Stigma-and-Changing-My-Attitude

Tips to Navigate Mental Health Challenges in Your Family: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/October-2022/What-I-Wish-I-d-Known-About-Caregiving-7-Tips-To-Navigate-Mental-Health-Challenges-in-Your-Family

 

Working Together to Prevent Suicide

NATIONAL SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE

CALL OR TEXT 988

Take a Minute

Taking a minute to reach out to someone in your community – a family member, friend, colleague or even a stranger – could change the course of another’s life.

Individuals who have survived a suicide attempt have much to teach us about how the words and actions of others can be important, and many of them are now working as advocates for suicide prevention and have informed resources which are now readily available.

People are often reluctant to intervene, for many reasons, including a fear of not knowing what to say. It is important to remember, there is no specific formula. Empathy, compassion, genuine concern, knowledge of resources and a desire to help are key to preventing a tragedy.

Another factor that prevents individuals from intervening is the worry of making the situation worse. This hesitance is understandable as suicide is a difficult issue to address, accompanied by a myth that suggests that talking about it may instigate vulnerable individuals to contemplate the idea or trigger the act.

Evidence suggests that this is not the case. The offer of support and a listening ear are more likely to reduce distress, as opposed to exacerbating it.

We need to look out for those who are not coping. Individuals in distress are often not looking for specific advice. Warning signs of suicide include: hopelessness, rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge, acting reckless or engaging in risky activities – seemingly without thinking, feeling trapped like there’s no way out, increased alcohol or drug use, withdrawing from friends, family & society, anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time and dramatic mood changes.

The listening ear of someone with compassion, empathy and a lack of judgement can help restore hope. We can check in with them, ask them how they are doing and encourage them to tell their story. This small gesture goes a long way.

• Take a minute to notice what is going on with you, your family, your friends and your colleagues.
• Take a minute to reach out and start a conversation if you notice something is different.
• Take a minute to find out what help is available for both you and others.

This conversation movement endeavors to inspire others to help break the silence and ask, “are you ok?” to support someone struggling with some simple steps that could change a life.

To learn more, please visit the Suicide Prevention Resource Center’s website by clicking the image below or following the link here: https://sprc.org/about-suicide/

For assistance with referrals and resources contact MEND at 395 Hudson Street, 5^th Floor, NY, NY 10014, (212) 366-7590, or MEND@NYCCBF.org