May Day Project 2021

MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

We hear your call for help Behind the required face masks, many of us have worn additional masks of composure to hide our internal distress. If your mental health has suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic, you’re far from alone. A Kaiser Family Foundation poll shows nearly half of adults in America have been negatively impacted by worry and stress due to the virus, as well as isolation and money concerns.

Approximately four in 10 U.S. adults have reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder.

Even as we ease back into normalcy, COVID’s effect on our psyches will linger indefinitely. If you feel overwhelmed by a mental health issue, pandemic-related or otherwise, we encourage you to reach out and get the help you need. Like a vessel in trouble, sometimes people must make a “may day” call when they feel their lives are spiraling out of control.

With this Special May Day Section, dedicated to your mental health and packed with resources to guide you, we hope to provide your first step toward wellness and healing.

PRESENTED BY

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

CO-ACTIVE FAMILIES • CATALYST COUSELING AND THERAPIST SERVICES MISSISSIPPI BEHAVIORAL HEALTH • PINE GROVE BEHAVIORAL & ADDICTION SERVICES • RIGHT TRACK MEDICAL • SOUL BALANCE COUNSELING • NAMI PINE BELT

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MINDFULNESS

‘The win is that you’re going to be OK regardless’ CHOOSING TO LIVE WITH

Joy

TIFFANY D. BELL

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

BELL’S COPING TIPS AVOID ISOLATION

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“Don’t allow yourself to go through any difficulty on your own. Talk to someone, whether you’re talking to a friend or a professional therapist, counselor or someone you trust as a spiritual leader. As humans, we’re meant for connection, and we need to do all that we can to build that connection. You need to give people permission to see into your life so that they can help you. I think we all have blind spots, and giving people permission to see into your life is important so they can help you avoid some pitfalls.”

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DAILY MEDITATION/AFFIRMATION “(My mantra is,) ‘I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.’ I have a purpose, and I’m not only going to meet that purpose, but I’m going to help other people meet their purpose as well.”

PROTECT YOUR SPACE

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“We need to be mindful of the things we look at, and we need to be mindful of the things we listen to. Eyes are a gateway to the soul. Things that I watch and listen to are going to affect me. I believe in putting up healthy boundaries, so to speak, so you’re not ingesting that.

You need to feed on things that are good, positive and are going to help you reach your goals.”

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photograph by Brandi Stage Portraiture

JOURNALING

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“I think it’s important to find some way to connect with yourself at a deeper level, and for me, it’s journaling, I need to write out my feelings. For the next person, it might be going to spend some time on the beach because it brings them peace. It allows your thoughts to freely flow and clears the air.”

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henever a stressor enters Tiffany Bell’s life, she commends it to “the box.”

First, she writes down what’s worrying her. Then, she folds the piece of paper and slips it into her designated problem receptacle.

To the executive director of the Women’s Resource Center, the box represents the hands of God. “Once I put that problem in the box, I am no longer responsible for having to solve it,” Bell says. “I have placed it into His hands, and He is now responsible for solving that problem.”

Over time, the box has become a sort of victory cache for Bell — a visible, tangible record of obstacles overcome and challenges conquered — as well as a blueprint for handling future crises. The mother of two, nonprofit consultant, coach, author, speaker and co-director of Success Women’s Conference knows well what it means to be constrained by grief and fear — and she’s determined to teach others how to break free.

BISHOP

Much of what Bell knows about life and loss she learned from her son, Bishop. After having two children — Brieyon, 26, and Brandon, 18 — the South Carolina native and her husband, Ken, decided to add to their family.

Bishop Randall Bell, who was named after Bell’s grandfather, was born prematurely in the spring of 2006.

“My oldest son was premature as well, so I’d been through this before,” she recalls. “We knew there would be some struggles along the way, but my expectation was that it would end up well.”

Having visited Bishop at Ochsner’s Children Hospital on June 18, the Bells returned home. Once there, they received a phone call — and Bell struggled to understand what the doctor on the other end was telling her.

“I gave the phone to Ken, and next thing I know, he is melting down the side of the wall — and then I knew what she was saying. He just cried out in pain.”

At just 31 days old, Bell’s beloved son was gone.

FEB. 8, 2007

Seven months after losing Bishop, another phone conversation changed the trajectory of Bell’s life. For much of the morning of Feb. 8, 2007, she felt uneasy.

“I got to work, and I just had this feeling over and over again,” she recalls. “I had this feeling of wanting to be near Ken. I felt like I needed to get on the phone and talk to him.”

After several unsuccessful tries to reach her husband, Bell could no longer ignore her growing sense of dread.

Then employed as an X-ray technician, she left Gulf Coast Medical Center and set out to find him.

Ken was working as a subcontractor for the city of D’Iberville, helping in the post-Katrina cleanup effort, so she didn’t know exactly where to look. Finally, a call to Ken’s phone was answered, but it wasn’t his voice she heard.

The nurse on the other end passed the phone to an emergency room doctor, who informed Bell that her husband had been in a work-related accident. He advised her to gather her family and come say her goodbyes.

“I hung the phone up, and I remember kind of yelling.

I yelled at God,” Bell says. “I was like, ‘This wasn’t our plan! This isn’t what you promised me!’ I sat there for a little bit and thought, ‘OK, if this is how it’s going to be, you’ll need to make sure that I have everything that I need, and my kids have what they need.’”

VICTIM VS. VICTOR

In the aftermath, Bell recalls, “He did just that.” Rather than feeling forsaken, she was fortified in her faith — finding that whatever she needed, whether it was financial resources, wisdom, direction or just a shoulder to lean on, God provided.

While you can’t always choose what happens to you, Bell says, “You can choose how you’re going to respond.”

She chose to approach the losses she’d sustained from a place of hope rather than being consumed by sorrow.

“When your joy is centered in your relationship with Christ, and knowing that as life goes up and down, He’s going to be on the mountaintop with you as well as in the low valleys, you can maintain your joy knowing that you’re going to be OK no matter what,” Bell says.

“The win is not that the circumstance turns out the way that you want. The win is that you’re going to be OK regardless.”

By the time she experienced it in adulthood, Bell already was well acquainted with grief. In her youth, she dealt with a series of deaths as she lost her grandparents, adopted mom and aunt in a short time span, and she learned that death doesn’t mean abandonment.

“As I grew, I came to understand exactly what had happened; I realized death is a natural part of life,” Bell says. “For those who believe what I believe, it’s goodbye for now. In Christ, we’ll see each other again, and we’ll spend eternity together. That gives me hope when I look toward my future.”

In the present, Bell is making a transition from being executive director of the Women’s Resource Center to heading a nonprofit consulting firm, and a Nonprofit CEO conference is planned for June. Meanwhile, Success Women’s Conference has grown to have a global reach, and Bell has compiled a book titled “Leading with Uncommon Courage,” an international, best-seller available through Amazon, in which 30 women share their stories of faith and overcoming difficult circumstances.

These endeavors fall in line with Bell’s core philosophy.

In everything she does, she strives to strengthen families and the community as a whole — leaving a lasting legacy.

“I live my life in a way that brings life and love to other people; I don’t necessarily live my life for me,” she says.

“I believe we should live our lives in order to encourage and to bring other people up. So as I rise, other people are able to rise. I am intentional to bring others along in my journey, and I’ve had many people do that same thing for me.”

Bell will continue adding paper slips to “the box” — but that certainty doesn’t cause her dismay. Instead, the practice reminds her that with God’s help, she can persevere and maintain her happiness through any hardship.

“Every time I see the box,” she says, “I think, ‘Oh yeah — He’s working.’”

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BE INFORMED

BY DR. SHEILA RIVERS

Find a good therapist Finding a good therapist is a fine art. This process requires you to find someone with whom you can be vulnerable and comfortable sharing intimate information. Such sensitive disclosures include biological, psychological, social and childhood trauma history. The search for a good fit can seem endless.

Looking online, reviewing professional profiles and reading biographies is one strategy, but this approach can become overwhelming. A trusted way to get a therapist recommendation is a referral from another professional or a friend or family member.

A good connection between therapist and patient is a key element of the process and often is referred to as building a rapport. The ability to communicate and mutually understand the therapy process, goals for the patient and methods used will have an ongoing impact. It’s also important to note the role and rise of teletherapy during the pandemic, which allows for patient-therapist interactions over the phone or online and which some may prefer.

If you’re looking for a therapist, here are some tips to reduce the stress of finding the right professional to help you: Answer some questions: As you undertake your search, determine the following: • Would you be more comfortable with a particular gender,

race, age or religious preference?

• Which setting would you feel more comfortable in — inperson or teletherapy?

• Do you need a mental health professional specialist in a specific area, such as trauma, abuse or severe mental health issues?

• Which mental health licensed professional would be suitable for your needs?

• What mental health treatment does your insurance cover?

Take note of credentials Expert mental health professionals have an extended educational history, passed a licensure test, been background checked, been licensed by an accredited state board, met the state board’s intern or resident requirements and adhered to a professional code of ethics.

Many mental health professionals have a variety of credentials.

Visiting the websites of their practices or organizations can lend insight into their treatment methods and modalities. If you have further questions regarding a prospective therapist, scheduling an initial consultation may be helpful.

Dr. Shelia Rivers, DSW, LCSW and MPH, is owner and chief therapist at Rivers Psychotherapy Services PLLC. Reach her at (707) 728-5131 or shelia.rivers@riverspsychotherapy.com.

The following licensures may be a consideration for an expert mental health professional: LCSW – licensed clinical social worker LMFT – licensed marriage and family therapist NCC — national certified counselor LCDC – licensed chemical dependency counselor LPC – licensed professional counselor LMHC – licensed mental health counselor PsyD — doctor of psychology PhD — doctor of philosophy DSW — doctor of social work MD — doctor of medicine (physician psychiatry)

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DR. SHELIA RIVERS, DSW, LCSW, MPH

Dr. Shelia Rivers is a licensed certified social worker (LCSW). She provides counseling services for individuals, children and adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups.

Rivers holds a bachelor-of-science degree in psychology and education, master’s degrees in social work and public health, executive administration, and a doctor-of-socialwork degree. She is licensed in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.

Being a licensed certified social worker gives Rivers great pleasure. It allows her an opportunity to share her gift of therapy with many who are struggling with mental illness and daily life trials. Watching people grow by implementing healthier coping skills, changing thought processes, empowerment and encouragement is one of life’s most rewarding careers.

Rivers considers it her duty to remain passionate about this helping profession defined as social work. She looks forward to making an amazing impact on her community, families and the lives of individuals she serves.

DR. SHELIA RIVERS, DSW, LCSW, MPH

Owner and Chief Therapist Rivers Psychotherapy Services, PLLC (707) 728-5131 Business (601) 348-1083 Google Voice www.gcwmultimedia.com 27

POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS

BY STACEY RILEY

Surviving sexual assault

If you’ve experienced domestic violence or sexual assault, you aren’t alone. Call the center’s 24/7 crisis line at 800-800-1396.

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For most of her life, Kate could describe herself as an outgoing and cheerful person. She was raised in a supportive family environment, got a college education and moved away to take the job of her dreams. That version of herself vanished after she was sexually assaulted by someone she considered a friend.

After the traumatic incident, Kate completely cut herself off from her former life. She quit her job, moved back to her parent’s home and spent most of her time isolated in her bedroom. Her days were plagued with recurring flashbacks of the assault and exhaustive efforts to determine how she could have prevented it. Nightmares terrorized her.

After months of isolation, she decided to try to recapture parts of herself she once knew. She obtained a job at a local casino in her hometown and made several attempts to leave the assault behind her.

As Kate attempted to reconnect to her life, the flashbacks did not end, and she developed a new symptom of the assault: hyperarousal. This symptom caused her to become easily startled by sudden movements or loud noises, which was a common occurrence in her work environment.

Kate had to resist the impulse to seek the solitude of isolation to avoid constant reminders of the assault.

She knew it was time to get help with these stressful symptoms.

Kate developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the assault. The National Center for PTSD describes the condition as a mental health problem that develops after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident

or sexual assault. Although upsetting memories, feeling on edge and trouble sleeping are normal occurrences after a traumatic event, PTSD can develop when these symptoms do not subside over time and, in some cases, get worse.

These symptoms are compounded by attempts to avoid any reminder of the trauma, memory lapses and cognitive distortions related to the event.

The development of PTSD after a frightening situation is not uncommon. About 10 percent of women and 4 percent of men will develop PTSD in their lifetime, according to the National Center for PTSD. However, recovery is possible with the help of trauma-focused therapy. Therapy does not act as a means for re-traumatization, but instead helps remove the distorted thoughts attached to the event and develop a solid foundation of coping mechanisms to move beyond the trauma.

Kate’s recovery journey allowed her to normalize and rewrite the impact of the traumatic experience.

She realized that she could reclaim her life and manage any triggers she encountered.

To maintain confidentiality, Kate’s assault is not based on the experiences of one specific person.

Instead, this is a retelling of the collective experiences of several individuals I have had the honor to work with at the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence during my 20 years as an advocate and therapist for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Stacey Riley, licensed clinical social worker, is the CEO of Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence.

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ANXIETY

Understanding anxiety FROM GULFPORT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Anxiety is characterized by feelings of worry, uneasiness or nervousness about a particular event or unknown outcome. It is the most common mental health disorder in the United States.

Occasional bouts of anxiety are a normal and healthy response to certain fearful situations, like public speaking, asking for a raise, going to large social events or even waiting in line to ride a rollercoaster. If the anxiety feels overwhelming, erratic or severe, you may be suffering from a specific type of anxiety disorder.

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

• Separation anxiety disorder • Selective mutism • Specific phobia • Social anxiety disorder • Agoraphobia • Panic disorder • Generalized anxiety disorder • Substance/medication-induced anxiety disorder • Medical condition-induced anxiety What are some causes of anxiety?

• Stress from work, school or relationships • Emotional trauma

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• Financial issues • Stress from a chronic or serious medical condition • A major event, performance or trauma • Medication side effects • Illicit drug or alcohol use • Lack of oxygen How Can I manage anxiety?

• A daily exercise routine • A well-balanced diet • Adequate sleep • Looking for positivity • Learning your personal anxiety triggers and how to alleviate them • Utilize relaxation techniques like yoga or progressive muscle relaxation • Smoking cessation and no caffeine *Source: NAMI If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic or in general, call Gulfport Behavioral Health System’s Stress and Anxiety Hotline at (228) 236-2236.

Compassionate behavioral healthcare for adults, adolescents & children Life can be overwhelming and emotional distress can impact individuals in different ways. Let us help you or your loved one who may be struggling with mental health issues or mental and behavioral issues resulting from addiction.

Gulfport Behavioral Health System provides inpatient treatment for individuals as young as 4 years of age as well as intensive outpatient programs for adults and adolescents. We can help treat issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, phobias, family crisis, or threatening or destructive behaviors.

If you know someone who is struggling, call us for a no-cost confidential assessment at 800-831-1700 or visit gulfportbehavioral.com today. We can help.

11150 Highway 49N | Gulfport, MS 39503 | gulfportbehavioral.com | 800-831-1700 Physicians are on the medical staff of Gulfport Behavioral Health System, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Gulfport Behavioral Health System. The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. Model representations of real patients are shown. Actual patients cannot be divulged due to HIPAA regulations. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 210152-0726 03/21

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TREATMENT

BY KIMBERLY WIMBROW

Choosing the best treatment option As women, we often are caretakers for our families and loved ones. This role can impact our mental health, as we can be inclined to place more emphasis on others’ health and wellbeing than our own. The stress of our responsibilities, now compounded by the effects of the recent coronavirus pandemic and subsequent economic impact, can increase the likelihood a woman’s mental health will suffer.

One in five women in America experiences a mental health issue in her lifetime. In fact, women are twice as likely as men to experience depression, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, according to the American Psychiatric Association.

In Mississippi, many of those women do not have the opportunity to receive the care they need due to cost or a lack of access to mental health care providers.

Some women who need mental health care often do not seek treatment because they are unsure which treatment option is best. For some, regular visits to a therapist’s office are enough to treat mild to moderate cases of depression, anxiety and other issues. For others, a residential treatment program is appropriate to treat more severe behavioral health concerns. For those who need an intermediate level of treatment, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) — which encourages long-term, successful management of physical, emotional and mental health in a more concentrated setting while living at home — is the ideal option.

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Understanding the differences in treatment options can be a beneficial first step on the path to wellness.

SEEKING HELP

No mental health challenge is the same; therefore, no single treatment option will be ideal for everyone. Reviewing resources available online from local providers and trusted sources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness and speaking with a physician can provide additional information on options for healing.

If you think you or someone you love needs medical care for behavioral health concerns, talk with your doctor about treatment options. Women often are hesitant to admit they need help, but consulting with your health care provider is an important first step to reducing the stigma often associated with mental health. In a world full of increasing pressures and responsibilities, it’s important that we take care of ourselves as much as we care for those around us.

Kimberly Wimbrow is community liaison director at Oceans Behavioral Hospital Biloxi, which specializes in helping children, adults and seniors manage the challenges associated with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. Reach her at kimberly.wimbrow@oceanshealthcare.com.

Oceans Behavioral Hospital Biloxi The Journey to Healing Begins Here At Oceans, healing is our focus. Children, adults, and seniors turn to us to manage the challenges associated with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.

Our proven, innovative, and progressive therapies promote long-term wellness through both inpatient and intensive outpatient treatment options.

INPATIENT BEHAVIORAL SERVICES Focusing specifically on the unique physical and emotional needs of older adults and seniors.

ADOLESCENT BEHAVIORAL SERVICES

Treating teenagers with the individualized attention they need.

INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAMS

Providing long-term, successful management of physical, emotional and cognitive health for patients living at home.

THERAPEUTIC DAY SCHOOL

NOW OFFERING TELEHEALTH SERVICES Treating depression, anxiety and other behavioral health challenges via video or phone for inpatient and outpatient participants, families and caregivers.

Helping K-12 students with academic instruction and comprehensive therapy in our fully accredited private school.

Accepting Medicaid • TRICARE • Most Private Insurance 180 Debuys Road | Biloxi, MS 39531 | (228) 388-0600 oceansbiloxi.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

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ANXIETY

BY DONNA BURROWES

Signs of mental distress in children

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged our world in many significant ways. While the medical impact and disruption on society is visible, the emotional and psychological rifts are not as obvious. Children and families have had to figure out how to learn and interact safely to prevent the spread of this potentially deadly virus. Social connection and a sense of belonging are important to a child’s development, and physical isolation has led to an increase in depression and feelings of hopelessness.

Additionally, fear of the disease has caused a rise in anxiety and compulsive behaviors among children and adults. It is important to recognize the signs of emotional and psychological distress in children in order to connect them with interventions that allow them to overcome these challenges.

It may be hard to know what your child needs or how she feels, but there are several signs that may signal a need for intervention.

These include: • Withdrawal/avoidance • Anger or crying episodes • Change in school performance • Excessive blame, shame or thoughts of suicide • Behavioral changes A change in behaviors or patterns of functioning is one sign your child may be experiencing emotional distress. Some examples include: • The child is sleeping too much or too little.

• The child has no desire to participate in activities she used to enjoy or has little motivation to do things.

• The child has little energy to do things or an excessive amount of energy that is not typical.

• The child has difficulty concentrating and completing activities.

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• The child is eating much more or less than usual.

• The child is moving much slower or is restless and can’t stand or sit still.

• The child engages in behaviors that may cause self-harm, such as scratching, cutting, hitting or banging his or her head.

Change in behaviors, activity, grades, emotions and reactions and statements are some of the signs that your child may be experiencing emotional or psychological distress. If you have concerns about your child, many mental health professionals in our community are available to help. For more information, contact your local pediatric clinic.

Donna Burrowes is a licensed and board-certified clinical psychologist with Co-ACTive Families, her independent private practice. Reach her at (228) 337-0084.

Withdrawal/avoidance - The child does not want to interact with family or friends and avoids activities. She may isolate in her bedroom, not want to leave the house or avoid talking about things.

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Anger or crying episodes. The child has intense anger and reacts over little things or has periods of unc Changes in school performance. The child has difficulty with school work and grades worsen.

Blame, shame or thoughts of suicide. The child blames herself or others for negative experience, expresses shame or thoughts that she would be better off dead.

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Proven Therapeutic Services for

CHILDREN & FAMILIES Co-ACTive Families is the independent private practice of Dr. Donna Burrowes, a licensed and board-certified clinical psychologist who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of children, adolescents, and families.

DOES YOUR CHILD OR FAMILY NEED HELP WITH….

Anxiety Depression Autism Learning Disabilities Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

WE CAN HELP! Dr. Burrowes’ treatment services include individual, family and group counseling with evidence-based interventions for anxiety and depression, and parental guidance and consultations for managing challenging behaviors. She conducts comprehensive assessments of cognitive abilities, academic skills, adaptive behaviors and social-emotional functioning for clear diagnoses and recommendations to help children and families cope with these issues.

9480 Three Rivers Road | Gulfpor t, MS 39503 | (228) 337-0084

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Unifying families to live their best life through psychological flexibility and valued actions.

MOOD DISORDER

CHOOSING TO NOT GIVE UP

SONDRA STRIKER

Overcomer

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

For years, Sondra Striker went through a string of hand on her all her life. psychologists, psychiatrists and medications — all in an effort to As she fought to get well, Striker first and “just be normal.” foremost believed in God and His protection over her.

A native of New York, who was raised in Texas, Striker’s Additionally, “I figured out that I had to advocate for myself,” first memory of being in a psychologist’s office and placed on she says. “If a therapist, doctor or medication didn't feel right, I medication was at age 5. At the time, she was struggling amid spoke up. I never gave up on me even in the darkest moments.” her parents’ divorce.

Now self-employed as a quiltmaker, the mom to one adult son From ages 7 to 14, Striker was molested by her oldest brother, and three “furkids” is on her lowest-ever dose of medication. Her and at age 16, she was married and pregnant. Her first diagnosis church family has helped show Striker her value in the world of mental illness came at age 21 when she was diagnosed with and in the lives of others. She sees a therapist for medication behavioral issues because she was abusing her second husband. checks and considers herself stable, healthy, happy and living Her father had schizophrenia, and Striker always feared that life to the fullest. she had the condition, too.

She’s held numerous titles in several fields, including food She went on to be diagnosed with sex addiction, then bipolar service, customer service and II disorder, depression, sleep disorders “and just about anything office administration, but says else that you could be diagnosed with.” unofficially, her title is “I was married and divorced four times, on drugs, using survivor. alcohol and messing my life up in general,” says the Gulfport “There will always resident. “I was on so many different medications at various be situations where I times, I didn't know what was up or down.” have to fight to find She entered her third and fourth marriages still grappling my equilibrium,” with issues from being abused and then being raped at age 20.

Striker says, Her existence became endless rounds of medications, doctors “but I have the and “trying to do better.” biggest allies on “Sometimes I did, sometimes I didn't,” Striker says. “It seemed my side — God, like things kept getting in my way.” my husband and At age 36, Striker suffered three miscarriages in nine months, my belief that I and depression held her firmly in its grasp. In 1998, she had an am worthy.” ectopic pregnancy, and her fourth divorce followed in 1999.

“Life couldn't get any worse,” Striker says, “but I was dating my now husband of 21 years (Mark). I finally seemed to be getting a handle on things, but there was still a lot of work to do.”

The life changes that occurred after Mark retired from the military almost put Striker back in the hospital, and she knew that if she didn't ask for help, she’d relapse to her mental state of 25 years prior.

“I talked to my husband, and together we went to the doctor, and that's when things really started to get better,” she says.

At age 49, she officially was diagnosed with cyclothymia — a rare mood disorder that causes emotional ups and downs.

“It was discovered that because I have never been able to sleep well that the manic episodes were brought on by lack of sleep for weeks and months at a time,” Striker says. Her doctor, a fellow Christian, didn't balk at her feeling that God had his photograph by Annie Hsu

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P

REASONS YOU WILL

LOVE THERAPY

Therapy is a safe space where you can be honest, feel heard and not be judged! What are you waiting on? Contact Catalyst CTS today at 228-284-2644 if you need a safe space to heal.

It pushes you to deal with and release all of the difficulties you have been running away from in your life.

It gives you a confidential space to share your concerns, issues and or traumas without judgment.

It gives you professional, unbiased views of what might be happening in your life. Your friend is not your therapist, it is often hard for them to offer you unbiased opinions.

It is evidenced based, though problems are unique to the individual at their core they are often the same.

Research in Human Behavior has been quite effective in helping therapist to solve human issues.

It teaches you skills that you can utilize to help you deal with a plethora of mental health issues.

It is self-care and a way to make sure you are not only taking care of your physical health but your mental health as well.

The gratification you’ll get from knowing that you are working on you!

It offers you the opportunity to heal, which helps you to improve relationships with significant others, family and friends.

It helps you to work through your past and gives you the opportunity to create new narratives for your life.

Just Because!

Power IGNITING THE

WITHIN YOU

228-284-2644 • catalystcts@gmail.com • catalyst_cts

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FLASHBACKS

BRUISED BUT

NAKISHA WHITE

Not broken

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BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Although she considers herself to be in a “beautiful, peaceful” place today, Nakisha White Henderson has weathered her share of turmoil.

“I have suffered some pretty low moments,” acknowledges the certified mental health therapist and life coach, “but all in all, to say I would change anything isn’t my truth, because every single thing that I have gone through has developed me into the woman that I am today.”

A teenage mother by age 16, the Gulfport native later underwent a tumultuous divorce that led to a domestic violence incident. An argument escalated, and Henderson says she was choked to the point of passing out. When her now ex-husband left the room to grab a gun, she called 9-1-1 and managed to escape with help on the way.

“I grabbed my keys, ran out of the house and took off in my car,” Henderson recalls. “As I was leaving the neighborhood, I started to hear and see the police cars rushing toward the direction of my home.”

Although Henderson survived, the incident left her bruised and battered physically and emotionally, causing her nightmares, anxiety and flashbacks. In the aftermath, she was left raising two young daughters — trying to put the pieces of her life back together alone.

“Change doesn’t always look pretty, nor does it feel good,” Henderson says. “It is a transformation that comes with a heavy price of shedding your old self to make way for the new you.”

Henderson maintains her mental wellness by staying attuned to her thoughts and her words, paying attention to the energy around her. When she finds herself falling into negative thoughts, she knows it’s time to recharge, which may mean one to two hours of quiet time by herself or engaging her husband for a hug. She also copes through prayer, mediation, forgiveness and backing from friends and family.

To anyone going through a hard time and struggling to see a light at the end of the tunnel, Henderson recommends the following: • Remind yourself of the last challenge or adversity you faced and how courageous you were in conquering it.

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• Stay connected to God through prayer, His word and meditation.

• Develop a positive mindset; acknowledge positive things that are going on despite the difficulties.

• Journal those negative thoughts; get them out of your mind and spirit.

• Create a positive support system — people you can laugh with, and people who will remind you how brave and awesome you are.

• Seek counseling from a mental health professional, licensed social worker, pastor and/or life coach.

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BRINGING MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES TO YOU Through our network of providers and offices across the state, Mississippi Behavioral Health Services provides the highest quality counseling services and treatment resources for children, adolescents and adults suffering from mental illness, emotional and/or behavioral disturbances.

Our philosophy of care is centered on the principle that mental health services should be client driven, family-oriented and constructed within the context of your unique situation and environment.

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CAREGIVER STRESS

BY SHER GRAHAM

5 minutes of caregiver self-care is not selfish My great-aunt Milly shared her life as a caregiver until she needed caregivers herself upon reaching her 90s. Her Alzheimer’s disease steadily progressed, with her dementia symptoms gradually worsening over the next nine years. There were many outings and lucid moments filled with conversation and laughter as we shared of ourselves during our times together.

Her life was a legacy of caregiving and volunteer service.

She devoted more than 25 years to the American Red Cross as the front-desk receptionist at our local hospital. She would say, “People who come into the hospital need to see a smile and a friendly face; they need to know someone cares.”

Our relationship grew over years, as we both loved to play euchre and hymns on the piano. I enjoyed her mild, pleasant demeanor. When I lived in Atlanta, I traveled on weekends to visit her. Our daily, long-distance telephone conversations were the highlight of my day. In 2008, her long, admirable life ended when she transitioned home at age 99.

During those last years, I found myself in two worlds — my world in Atlanta, and her world coping with Alzheimer’s. I learned that caregiving comes in many forms, sizes, shapes, lengths of time, locations, depths and breadths. I also learned that I had to take five minutes or more for myself so I could give 100 percent of myself to Aunt Milly.

Do you find you tend to take care of yourself only after you’ve taken care of others? Caregiving is our gift to others, but we shouldn’t neglect ourselves in the process. Adequate self-care requires giving to ourselves as much as we give to others.

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Boundaries are important, so don’t be afraid to set them.

Self-care is not selfish. For you to be at your best and fully able to care for others, you must make YOU a priority. Engaging in self-care shows your family, friends and work colleagues and anyone else you encounter that you value yourself. Start with five minutes each day.

If you need a timeout, utilize spaces where you can retreat briefly, whether it’s a bathroom, closet or your car. What do you do in those first five minutes? Wiggle your toes. Stretch. Move your body. Dance. Sing. Read a poem. Write down three things you’re grateful for. Twirl. Take a quick shower. Say your daily intention aloud. Hug yourself. Look in the mirror and say “I love you. You are awesome.” Breathe. Smile. Laugh. Repeat if needed.

Being 100 percent good to yourself allows you to give 100 percent of yourself to others.

Sher Graham, executive vice president, NeuroBehavior, OSBI/ Synergy Solutions Collaborative, Mobile, Alabama, is a co-active behavioral health coach and writer. She is co-chair for the Gulf Coast Mental Health Coalition. She may be reached at synergytosoar@gmail.com.

STIGMA

BY NICOLE BLEDSOE

Stigma: A peer supporter perspective In the early 80s, I noticed my emotional state changing, and I was too scared to tell anyone because I thought I would be “taken away.” Family members often asked me, “What’s wrong with you?” However, they never took the time to listen or understand what was going on and typically brushed it off with, “You’re fine,” or “Stop acting stupid.”

As I got older and became a wife, mother and career woman, I still had the fear of being taken away and labeled “crazy” or “unfit.” I became an expert at stuffing my feelings down deep and self-stigmatizing. My mental instability caused a trickle-down catastrophe for my body and soul, as well as my family and job. I was scared.

Stigma comes in many forms and has no boundaries.

Merriam–Webster defines stigma as a mark of shame or discredit. As someone who has experience with mental illness, I see stigma as a lack of patience and misunderstanding, a judgment and a lack of knowledge of the subject matter.

Women constitute half of the population (Worldbank), and it is

important for us all to make sure we’re getting the proper care we need for our physical and mental health. A holistic approach focuses on the whole person, not just the symptoms. Stigma will stop a person from seeking the help she needs, which in turn may result in symptoms getting worse.

Demystifying mental illness as an embarrassment or a “bad thing” is the first step to ending the stigma. You should talk with your primary care doctor about any feelings you may be having, i.e. crying spells for unknown reasons, sadness or anger.

It is therapeutic to talk with individuals who have experience with what you’re going through. It is OK to not be OK; there are places and people who can help someone get on the path to recovery and wellness. We can beat stigma together.

Nicole Bedsole is a peer support specialist with the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi. Reach her at nicole@ msmentalhealth.org

CELEBRATING

MENTAL HEALTH

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SUICIDE

BY KAY DANEAULT

Setting the record straight about suicide It’s the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., claiming more than 47,500 lives in 2019 — but suicide still can be a difficult subject for many to grasp. Given the wealth of information and disinformation available, it can be hard to know what to believe.

Let’s examine several widely held views on suicide and determine whether they’re true.

Claim 1: If you ask a person about his or her suicidal intentions, you will encourage the person to kill themselves.

Myth: Asking someone directly about his or her suicidal feelings will often lower their anxiety level and act as a deterrent.

Your openness and concern in asking will allow the person experiencing pain to talk about their problems.

Claim 2: There is nothing you can do once a person is seriously considering suicide.

Myth: Most suicide crises are time-limited and based on unclear thinking. Persons attempting suicide are generally looking for a solution or an escape as they generally do not see any other solutions.

Claim 3: Improvement following a suicidal crisis means that the risk of suicide is over.

Myth. Most suicides occur within three months after the onset of a period of improvement. Relatives and physicians should be especially vigilant during this time.

Claim 4: Suicide occurs across all classes of people.

Fact. Suicide is neither a rich man’s disease nor the poor man’s curse. Suicide shows no class prejudice.

Claim 5: Suicide happens without warning.

Myth. Studies indicate that a person who is suicidal generally gives many clues and warnings regarding his or her intentions.

Kay Daneault is the executive director of the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi. Reach her at (228) 864-6274.

This information is part of the Mental Health First Aid curriculum published by the National Council for Behavioral Health. It’s important to acknowledge that despite our best efforts to inform ourselves and help those who are struggling, suicide may still occur. If you or someone you love is contemplating suicide and needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

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BY KAY DANEAULT

Are you out of balance?

RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MENTAL ILLNESS According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, many people display potential signs or symptoms of mental illness.

However, when such indicators appear for extended periods, it is time to get help. In the Mental Health First Aid program, mental illness is defined as a diagnosable condition that: • affects a person’s thinking, emotional state and behavior.

• disrupts the person’s ability to work, carry out daily activities and engage in satisfying relationships.

We often notice physical issues first, like chest pain, headaches, numbness, nausea, lack of energy, constipation and muscle pain. But mental illness can manifest in other ways, like avoidance of situations, fear, worry, sleep disturbance, anger, neglect of responsibilities, loss of interest in appearance or confusion. These are common, but the list is not all inclusive.

As an example, take someone who usually sleeps eight hours a night. Perhaps now, they only are sleeping three to four hours, or they are sleeping most of the day for more than a couple of weeks. Either of these situations can be cause for concern if it has been going on for a long time, because it is an extreme change.

If you recognize these signs and symptoms in yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to seek help. Talking about physical and emotional symptoms allows the doctor to understand what you’re experiencing and to offer the best options for treatment and recovery.

Kay Daneault is the executive director of the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi. Reach her at (228) 864-6274.

KEEPING YOU

MENTALLY

HEALTHY

70% LONELINESS ISOLATION Recently,

of people reported

or as the top contributing factor to mental health issues, followed by

PAST TRAUMA (46.1%) and RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS (42%).

Mental illness is common and treatable.

SEEKING PROFESSIONAL HELP is a sign of STRENGTH, not weakness.

Anonymous mental health screenings:

MSMENTALHEALTH.ORG

4803 Harrison Cir. | Gulfport, MS 39507 | P: 228-864-6274 www.gcwmultimedia.com 43

STRESS

BY AMY PRESTON

10 ways to cope with everyday stress Stress shows up in our lives every day — so, we need ways to relieve that stress every day, too. Letting it build up over time can cause numerous mental and physical health problems. Here are some of my favorite ways of dealing with daily pressures:

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2 3

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another day. Ask for help, or delegate tasks to someone else.

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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

One of the best ways to relieve daily stress is engaging in some kind of physical activity. The most important thing is that you enjoy doing it. This doesn’t need to take a lot of time, just 10 minutes can help. If possible, do something in nature. Being in natural, green spaces has been shown to help lower stress.

CONNECT WITH PEOPLE YOU LOVE WHO MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD

Spending time with people who are supportive and important to you boosts your mood. Talking to those in your support system can help reduce your stress.

MEDITATION AND MINDFULNESS

Meditation and mindfulness have been shown to help people feel calmer and more relaxed. Meditation is not just about clearing your mind; its about being aware of your thoughts and not attaching any judgment to them. Mindfulness is the practice of staying in the present moment. Much of our stress comes from our mind constantly thinking about the million and one things we have to do.

DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES

Deep breathing exercises bring oxygen into your body and help you feel more relaxed by stretching out the muscles in your torso that tend to get tense when you are stressed. One deep breathing technique is called square breathing. You inhale through your nose to the count of four. Hold that inbreath to the count of four. Exhale through the mouth to the count of four. Hold that exhale to the count of four. You can repeat this technique about four times for a total of one minute.

TAKE THINGS OFF OF YOUR PLATE

Make a to-do list, or use a planner to help you keep track of things you have to do. Prioritize the most important tasks, and move less important tasks to

7

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PRACTICE SELF-COMPASSION

It’s okay to treat yourself with kindness, in fact, it’s better for your mental health. The use of harsh and negative self-talk will not motivate you to do better or get more accomplished. It actually demotivates you and makes it harder to accomplish things and feel good about yourself.

GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

Getting good sleep is extremely important to mental and physical health. This is the time when our body and mind reset. Lack of sleep can leave you feeling grouchy and short-tempered and make it harder to problem solve, which can lead to more stress.

EAT HEALTHY FOODS AND DRINK WATER Having a good, healthy diet affects your mental health as well as your physical health.

WATCH SOMETHING FUNNY

Laughter can improve mood, strengthen the immune system and relieve stress by increasing oxygen and relaxing your muscles. It helps lower blood pressure, reduces the stress hormone cortisol and increases your endorphins.

ENGAGE IN A HOBBY

Discover a new hobby that you’ve always wanted to learn, or pick up an old one you haven’t done in a while. Bonus points if it’s something creative.

Amy Preston is a licensed professional counselor and owner of Soul Balance Counseling. She can be reached at soulbalancecounseling@gmail.com or (228) 220-2848.

Pine Grove is known as one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses and we are committed to healing and changing lives for the better.

For 37 years, Pine Grove has provided the highest quality behavioral health care services and addiction treatment available . . .

1-888-574-HOPE 2255 Broadway Drive Hattiesburg, MS 39402 www.pinegrovetreatment.com

We all have Stress that shows up in our lives every day. So, we need to have ways to relieve that stress every day, too. Letting that stress build up over time can lead to a number of mental and physical health problems. The following is a list of my favorite ways of dealing with daily stress.

• Physical Activity • Connect with people you love • Meditation and Mindfulness • Deep breathing exercises • Take Things off your plate • Practice Self Compassion • Get a Good Night’s sleep • Eat Healthy and Drink Water • Engage in a Hobby

Call Today 228-220-2848

Amy Preston, LPC

SOULBALANCECOUNSELING.COM www.gcwmultimedia.com

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WOMEN’S HEALTH

BY SHERRY CUMBEST

5 mental health concerns for women After more than a year of quarantines, social distancing and a general sense of uncertainty, there is finally a light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With each passing day, we reclaim more facets of daily life that before 2020 always felt so normal, like visiting family, going out to dinner with a group of friends, planning big vacations, taking in a live game or going to the movies.

Nonetheless, the pandemic’s effects will linger, and one of the most significant effects is the mental health impact to women around the world. According to a late 2020 study released by

CARE, a nonprofit international aid organization, while no one was ultimately spared from the anxiety, worry and overall emotional fatigue of coronavirus, women bore the brunt. Over the last year, women were almost three times as likely as men to report significant suffering due to mental health.

This impact isn’t going to go away overnight. In fact, even as we move closer and closer to normalcy, these are the top five mental health struggles that women will continue to face in the years to come.

ANXIETY Women often struggle with anxiety at a higher rate than men. COVID only widened that gap, with more women than men experiencing extreme symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heartbeat or trouble sleeping, during the pandemic. The onslaught of this increased anxiety is due largely to the additional responsibility many women had to juggle over the last year, including worrying about the economic fallout, caring for parents, managing homeschooling and working from home.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE To cope with the isolation, uncertainty and additional stress COVID caused, many women turned to alcohol.

While the number of women who drink heavily was on the rise even before the pandemic began, many reportedly increased their heavy drinking days by more than 40 percent once the initial shutdown and quarantine happened, according to a RAND Corporation study.

Their goals often were to stem some of the stress and anxiety, but instead, they created a vicious cycle in which the heavy alcohol use only exacerbated the depression, anxiety or insomnia they were already feeling.

POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION In normal times, one in 10 new mothers struggle with postpartum depression. COVID and the subsequent quarantine, however, only made the condition worse for many moms. Not only were they dealing with the same fears and isolation as the rest of us, but many were unable to get the hands-on support they so desperately needed from friends, family members or even professionals.

DEPRESSION Women are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with clinical depression than men, according to the National Center for Health Statistics, and that remained true during COVID. Left untreated, the effects of depression on women can be devastating.

If you are struggling with any of these conditions, remember that you are not alone. Help is available. Please reach out to a professional who can provide the support you need.

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EATING DISORDERS Eating disorders increased significantly during the pandemic. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, messages to the organization’s phone and online helplines increased 41 percent in January 2021 compared to January 2020. At the same time, those already struggling with or recovering from an eating disorder lacked access to some of their necessary structure and support, pushing them deeper into their disorder.

Sherry Cumbest is a licenced professional counselor and therapist with Right Track Medical Group. Reach Right Track’s Biloxi clinic at (228) 232-0890.

A SPECIAL

thank you

RightTrack

MEDICAL GROUP

®

Outpatient Mental Healthcare for the Gulf Coast

TO THE

Dr. Katherine Pannel Dr. Stephen Pannel Psychiatrist Psychiatrist

project sponsors This project, in its second year, was launched when Kimberly Kimbrow of Oceans Healthcare Biloxi, Kay Daneault of the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi and I met to discuss how to grow the public’s knowledge of the mental health needss and services available here on the Coast.

This effort is continuing to grow as others link hands to impact mental health awareness in South Mississippi. We are making a difference. An informed mind is a transformed mind.

Ramona Girley Nurse Practitioner

Sherry Cumbest Therapist

Quality Care for Anxiety, Depression, Stress, PTSD, OCD, Mood Disorders DOROTHY P. WILSON, PUBLISHER

Medication Management & Therapy for Adults, Children and Adolescents 1641 Popps Ferry Road, Suite A3 , Biloxi, MS 39532 Learn more at RightTrackMedical.com

(228) 232-0890

Listen to our podcast: CO-ACTIVE FAMILIES • CATALYST COUSELING AND THERAPIST SERVICES • MISSISSIPPI BEHAVIORAL HEALTH• PINE GROVE BEHAVIORAL & ADDICTION SERVICES • RIGHT TRACK MEDICAL

righttrackmedical.com/southoffine South of Fine, is dedicated to combating the stigma that surrounds mental health in the South.

SOUL BALANCE COUNSELING • NAMI PINE BELT

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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GRIEF

BY T. RANDY ROBBINS

The journey through grief My desire is to offer a word of hope and encouragement as you struggle on this grief journey that no one wants to take. Your life and your world have been shattered and turned upside down. Your thoughts, feelings and emotions are all over the place. Worry, fretting, anxiety, panic, pressure, tension, depression and confusion are all included in the storm you are having to endure — and you are trying to do the best you know how just to get through it all.

All aspects of who you are have been affected and damaged in some way. You have been deeply, severely wounded. It will take time to heal and recover. Be patient with God. Be patient with yourself. Be patient with others. Be patient with the process.

You can and will get better. All things are possible with God! Your loss is terribly painful and very important.

However, we must try to remember, “The most important thing is not what happens to you. The most important thing is how you respond to what happens to you.”

In order to respond to anything with God’s perspective, we must learn to see it from God’s perspective.

GriefShare and other effective grief support ministries can help you do that.

Instead of speaking of steps and/or stages of grieving, GriefShare suggests six goals for your grief journey: • Acceptance. It takes time for the heart to accept what the head sees.

• Turn to God. Say “Yes” to Him. Trust Him, and cling to Him like a little child with a good daddy.

• Express your emotions. Be honest, authentic and appropriate.

• Establish a new identity. Who am I without my loved one?

• Establish a new normal and way of moving forward.

What will my life be like as I rebuild without my loved one?

• Store memories of your loved one, remembering and continuing the legacy as you rebuild your life As much as you are now able, be encouraged. The Lord is with us!

T. Randy Robbins leads GriefShare (griefshare.org), a faith-based grief support ministry, at Northwood Church in Gulfport. For more information, contact him at moandrandy@aol.com.

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COVID

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Virus impacting mental health of 47% By now, we’re familiar with the symptoms of COVID-19 and the threat the virus poses to our bodies. But what about another danger we’re all susceptible to — whether or not we become physically ill?

During the pandemic, we’ve spent extended periods in isolation. We’ve been denied many of our favorite pleasures and pastimes, such as going on vacation, visiting family and friends, attending church, celebrating holidays, taking in concerts or cheering at sporting events. As parents, many of us have coped with the challenge of homeschooling our children while working from home ourselves. Plans have been cancelled or postponed, lives upended and lost, and we’ve faced these challenges without the benefit of socialization or a change of scenery. It’s little wonder that the sustained lockdowns and quarantines have affected our psyches.

Even as we gradually return to normalcy, the impact of the pandemic will linger for many of us long-term. Here are some facts and findings about the pandemic’s impact on mental health: • The March 2021 Kaiser Family Foundation’s COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor found that about half of adults (47 percent) continue to report negative mental health impacts related to worry or stress from the pandemic.

• In a recent U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, researchers found that the amount of adults with recent symptoms of an anxiety or depressive disorder increased from 36.4 to 41.5 percent, while the percentage of individuals reporting unmet mental health care needs increased from 9.2

50

percent to 11.7 percent between August 2020 and February 2021.

• According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, researchers found that COVID-19 patients have a higher risk of developing psychiatric symptoms in the 14 to 90 days after diagnosis. Over 18 percent of patients received a psychiatric diagnosis within 90 days, 5.8 percent of which were first-time diagnoses.

For those who find their mental wellness suffering in these times, experts offer these tips: • Move at least a little every day, whether it’s taking a walk, practicing yoga or joining a fitness class online or in person.

Physical activity is beneficial for both mind and body.

• If you are feeling lonely, do something thoughtful for someone else. Simple acts of kindness create connections and are as good for the giver’s spirit as the recipient’s. Also make sure to maintain your relationships with those near and dear to you, even if that must be done virtually.

• Practice self-care. This includes setting and maintaining a routine, focusing on gratitude, limiting exposure to media and/ or social media if they upset you, relaxing your mind by reading and listening to music and indulging in pampering sessions.

Overall, stay aware of how you’re feeling, and if you’re experiencing troubling symptoms consistently, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional.

Jennifer Gentile is a contributing writer for Gulf Coast Woman magazine.

RESOURCES

Where to find help ADRIENNE’S HOUSE (228) 762-8267 http://www.gccfn.org/ Adrienne’s House is the secondary domestic violence shelter of the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, offering temporary emergency shelter; individual counseling for adults and children; group counseling for residential and nonresidential clients; case management; legal/court advocacy and a civil legal services legal clinic.

ADVANCED PSYCHOTHERAPY ASSOCIATES (228) 575-0830 www.facebook.com/pages/ Advanced-PsychotherapyAssociates/148268688550197 Specializes in psychology and psychiatry.

ALEXA MORALES CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK/THERAPIST LCSW, ACSW (228) 331-3310 www.psychologytoday.com/us/ therapists/alexa-morales-gulfportms/75367 Morales is a social worker specializing in social work, psychotherapy and more.

ASCEND COUNSELING SERVICES (228) 351-9484 www.ascendcounselingservices.net/ Ascend Counseling Services offers individual and family counseling services in numerous areas of treatment.

AT THE ROOT COUNSELING AND WELLNESS (315) 317-2537 https://www.attherootwellness.com/ At The Root Counseling & Wellness takes a holistic approach to individual, couples and group counseling.

BACK BAY MISSION (228) 432-0301 https://thebackbaymission.org/ Back Bay Mission offers many ministries serving the poor and marginalized people of the Coast, including emergency assistance and supportive housing.

BILOXI TREATMENT CENTER (228) 207-1248 www.newseason.com/clinics/biloxitreatment-center/ Biloxi Treatment Center provides opioid addiction treatment and recovery services to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

BLOOM WELLNESS (228) 382-3107 www.bloom4wellness.com/ Bloom Wellness offers individual, couple and family therapy and specializes in working with tweens, teens and adults.

BOLT COUNSELING SERVICES (228) 382-3138 www.boltcounselingservices.com/ Bolt Counseling Services offers individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling and EMDR therapy.

BRIDGEWATER PSYCHIATRY (228) 331-3310 www.bridgewaterpsychiatry.com Bridgewater Psychiatry is a private outpatient facility that works with children, adolescents, and adults to treat most major mental health disorders; services include medication management, psychological testing and both individual and couples psychotherapy.

BRYAN KEITH BALLARD, LPC (228) 392-0943

Bryan Keith Ballard offers professional counseling services.

BUILDING BEHAVIORS COUNSELING SERVICES LLC (228) 424-3427 www.facebook.com/ BuildingbehaviorsCounselingServices Building Behaviors serves children, adolescents and adults through counseling, anger management and parenting skills training.

BUILDING NEW TOMORROWS LLC (228) 374-7854 www.facebook.com/ BuildingNewTomorrows/ Specializes in helping individuals, couples and families during times of stress and turmoil.

CANOPY CHILDREN’S SOLUTIONS (228) 863-4992 https://mycanopy.org/ Canopy Children’s Solutions is a nonprofit provider of children’s behavioral health, educational and social service solutions.

CARING HEARTS COUNSELING SERVICES (228) 591-1442 www.facebook.com/ CaringHeartsCounselingServices/ Caring Hearts specializes in treatment of children, adolescents and families who are experiencing mental, emotional and/or behavioral issues.

CATALYST COUNSELING AND THERAPY SERVICES (228) 284-2644 www.catalystcounselingandtherapy. com Catalyst Counseling and Therapy Services is a strengths-based mental health counseling service that helps

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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RESOURCES

individuals, couples and families get back on track with their lives.

specializing in counseling, clinical social work and more.

that is United Way affiliated.

GULF COAST CENTER FOR

CHARLA WILSON COUNSELING SERVICES PLLC (228) 456-3222 https://charlawilsoncounseling.com Charla Wilson Counseling Services PLLC offers counseling services for individuals, couples, families, adults, adolescents and children.

CLAVEAU COUNSELING CENTER (228) 222-5858 https://lclaveau.wixsite.com/ claveaucounselingctr Claveau Counseling Center offers services for individuals, couples and families for a variety of emotional, behavioral and psychological disorders.

CO-ACTIVE FAMILIES (228) 337-0084 www.donnaburrowespysd.com Co-ACTive Families is the independent private practice of Dr. Donna Burrowes, who specializes in evaluation and treatment for children, adolescents and families. Her practice is located inside Colorful Minds, a therapy program that provides Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) to children with autism.

COASTAL FAMILY HEATH SERVICES https://coastalfamilyhealth.org/ (228) 374-4991 Coastal Family Heath Services offers mental health assessments, brief counseling and/or referrals for more intensive levels of treatment, substance abuse assessments, brief counseling and/or referrals for detox and more intensive levels of treatment.

DR. CONRAD ANDERSON (228) 365-3552 Dr. Anderson is a counselor

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CROSSROADS RECOVERY CENTER (228) 863-0091 www.facebook.com/ CrossroadsRecovery/ Crossroads recovery center offers alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention services and substance abuse services.

ELIZABETH MCQUEEN LPC (228) 897-7730 Elizabeth McQueen specializes in counseling.

NONVIOLENCE (228) 435-1968 (Harrison County), (228) 762-8267 (Jackson County/ Adrienne’s House), (228) 252-1999 (Hancock County), (800) 800-1396 (crisis line) http://www.gccfn.org/ The Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence offers services and programs for children, victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, loved ones of homicide victims and others.

GULF COAST PLAY THERAPY CLINIC

DR. ETHEL HETRICK (228) 467-2424 https://www.psychologytoday.com/ us/therapists/ethel-wiest-hetrick-baysaint-louis-ms/128500 Dr. Hetrick has extensive training and experience in the assessment of learning disorders of all types, as well as ways to treat and remediate the problems.

DR. GERALD STEVE BARRILLEAUX (228) 863-1132 Dr. Gerald Steve Barrilleaux specializes in clinical psychology.

GULF COAST BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES LLC (601) 850-8663 www.gulfcoastbehavioralsciences. com/ Gulf Coast Behavioral Sciences LLC offers professional counseling and applied behavioral analysis services to individuals and families.

GULF COAST FAMILY COUNSELING AGENCY (228) 875-6113 https://gulf-coast-family-counselingagency.business.site/ Gulf Coast Family Counseling Agency is private, nonprofit counseling center

LLC (228) 224-2258 www.gcplaytherapy.com/ Clinic specializes in play therapy, which lets children express difficulties and resolve life challenges through the language of play.

GULF COAST PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATES (228) 331-3310 Gulf Coast Psychiatric Associates offers general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry services.

GULF COAST PSYCHOTHERAPY (228) 388-2900 www.gulfcoastpsychotherapy.net/ Gulf Coast Psychotherapy is a fullservice mental heath and substance abuse counseling center providing a wide range of mental health and substance abuse services.

GULFPORT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM (888) 420-5144 https://gulfportbehavioral.com/ Gulfport Behavioral offers treatment programs and services designed to stabilize patients’ emotional or mental health issues and promote long-term recovery and mental wellness.

HOME OF GRACE (228)-826-5283 The Home of Grace, a Christ-centered recovery program, helps individuals battle various types of addiction.

IMAGINE COUNSELING CENTER (228) 452-6023 https://imaginecounselingcenter.com/ Imagine Counseling Services offers counseling services for children, adolescents and families.

ISLANDS COUNSELING www.islandscounseling.com/ Offers confidential, therapeutic and professional services provided by licensed professional counselors or licensed clinical social workers.

JAIME K. PARKER, LPC (228) 533-2287 www.psychologytoday.com/us/ therapists/jaime-k-parker-oceansprings-ms/328563 A licensed professional counselor, Parker works with clients to identify their primary concerns and propose treatment based on those concerns.

Practice also offers a therapeutic play room.

DR. JAMES EDWARD HIGHTOWER (504) 613-6835 www.psychologytoday.com/us/ therapists/james-edward-hightowerdiamondhead-ms/368094 Dr. Hightower offers a variety of counseling services for individuals, couples and families.

services, addiction counseling, marital/family counseling, trauma counseling and more.

KIMILA R DEFLANDERS, THERAPIST/ LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER (601) 651-4804 www.psychologytoday.com/us/ therapists/kimila-r-deflandersgulfport-ms/382077 DeFlanders uses a unique and individually tailored blend of cognitive behavioral and client-centered therapy to provide therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, and families.

KARI RUSNAK COUNSELING (228) 860-3727 www.karirusnakcounseling.com/ Offers the relationship counseling online in Mississippi, Colorado and Utah.

LEAH GADDIS, LPC (228) 809-2281 Leah Gaddis offers professional counseling services.

LSL PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES (228) 265-5144 www.lslpsychologicalservices.com/ LSL Psychological Services provides a range of evidence-based treatments, including psychological assessment/ testing services and diagnosis/ treatment for a wide variety of issues for children, adolescents, adults, and families.

MIND + BODY THERAPY AND

JAMES HITE, LPC (228) 809-2212 Hite offers licensed professional counseling services.

JIM SORIANO LMFT, LPC (228) 547-6459 http://jimsorianolpc.com/ Soriano offers individual counseling

WELLNESS (601) 385-1145 http://www.mindbodypt.com/ Mind + Body Therapy and Wellness provides individual counseling services, as well as yoga and wellness services, to help clients achieve peace and balance.

MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH MISSISSIPPI (228) 864-6274 https://msmentalhealth.org/ The Mental Health Association of South Mississippi works to support and empower people who suffer from mental illness with resources and support services.

MINDFUL MATTERS (228) 284-4651 or (228) 284-4652 Mindful Matters services include adult psychiatric evaluations, pediatric psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders and mental health support groups.

MISSISSIPPI BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES 1-800-834-9348 msbehavioralhealth.org Mississippi Behavioral Health Services offers a network of providers across the state to provide counseling services and treatment resources for children, adolescents and adults suffering from mental illness, emotional and/or behavioral disturbances.

MISSISSIPPI CENTERS FOR AUTISM AND RELATED DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (228) 396-4434 https://mscentersforautism.org/ MCARDD exists as a service provider and referral source for those individuals and families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and as a clearinghouse for all who work with them.

MISSISSIPPI DRUG AND ALCOHOL TREATMENT CENTER (855) 334-6120 www.mississippidatc.com/ Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center offers individual

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RESOURCES

care with emphasis on family healing, with residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs available.

MISSISSIPPI SOUND COUNSELING SERVICES (228) 207-5751 www.psychologytoday.com/us/ therapists/mississippi-soundcounseling-services-gulfportms/261660 Mississippi Sound Counseling Services offers help for those with problems with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, teen issues, family conflict, co-parenting , anger management, codependency, addictions, eating disorders and crisis management.

with individual and group programs available.

PINE BELT MENTAL HEALTHCARE RESOURCES Harrison Mental Health Center: (228) 213-5888, Hancock Mental Health Center: (228) 220-5454, crisis stabilization unit: (228) 213-3900, Crossroads Recovery Center: (228) 213-5909, Gulf Coast IDD: (228) 2845525, Biloxi satellite offices: (228) 207-8617 www.pbmhr.org/ Pine Belt Mental Healthcare Resources has offices in 13 Mississippi counties and provides a range of mental health services from 68 locations.

NEW LIFE HARMONY (228) 223-7115 or (228) 860-3002 www.newlifeharmony.com New Life Harmony is a unique clinic based on a mind, body and spirit perspective, offering counseling and transformational therapy.

OASIS MENTAL WELLNESS LLC (228) 456-3116 www.oasismentalwellness.com/ Oasis Mental Wellness provides individual and family counseling to those who feel overwhelmed.

OCEANS HEALTHCARE/OCEANS BEHAVIORAL HOSPITAL (228) 388-0600 (inpatient) and (228) 385-4671 (outpatient) https://oceanshealthcare.com/biloxi Oceans provides a range of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric counseling and treatment options,

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RESILIENCE PSYCHOTHERAPY PLLC (888) 464-1811 https://moreresilient.com/ Resilience Psychotherapy works with clients to set personal goals, explore their feelings, beliefs, and behaviors, and work through painful memories and trauma.

PINE GROVE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS COUNSELING MYRTIS AUSTIN (228) 437-5653 Austin specializes in marriage and family therapy.

RENEW COUNSELING SERVICES (228) 219-4738 http://renewcounselingms.com/ Renew Counseling Services provides mental health counseling rooted in Christian beliefs for individuals and couples, addressing issues ranging from depression to marital struggles.

AND CONSULTING PLLC (228) 314-3626 https://practicalsolutionscounseling. com/ Practial Solutions provides mental health and consulting services to the local community.

AND ADDICTION SERVICES 1-888-574-HOPE www.pinegrovetreatment.com Since 1984, Pine Grove has offered a continuum of services ranging from outpatient to inpatient and residential treatment.

RIGHT TRACK MEDICAL GROUP

PREMIER PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING SERVICES (228) 220-4226 www.premiercounselingservices.net/ Premier Professional Counseling offers family therapy, couples therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, supervised visits/child exchange program and more.

MENTAL HEALTH CLINIC (228) 232-0890 www.righttrackmedical.com/biloxi Right Track Medical Group offers help for a number of mental health disorders, including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, depression and postpartum depression.

PSYCAMORE LLC PSYCHIATRIC PROGRAMS (228) 385-7744 Psycamore is a licensed, private, freestanding psychiatric intensive treatment program for highly functional individuals suffering from serious mental disorders, resulting in psychosocial, work or school impairments.

RIVERS PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES (228) 206-3632 https://www. riverspsychotherapyservices.com/ Rivers Psychotherapy offers therapy to those struggling with numerous issues, ranging from anxiety and depression to grief and interpersonal trauma.

SAFE HARBOR CLINIC (228) 200-0720 https://safeharborclinic.com/ Safe Harbor Clinic offers services for addiction treatment, psychiatry, counseling and therapy and state-ofthe-art depression treatment using transcranial magnetic stimulation, TMS (coming soon).

SEEKING OTHER SOLUTIONS LLC (601) 806-1136 https://www.psychologytoday.com/ us/therapists/gail-rusk-walker-longbeach-ms/192970 Seeking Other Solutions offers cognitive behavioral therapy to address a variety of needs.

SERENITY COAST COUNSELING (228) 860-9302 serenitycoastcounseling.com Serenity Coast Counseling works with clients to address an array of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, grief and PTSD. SHANTI YOGA & COUNSELING LLC (228) 284-2337 http://www. shantiyogaandcounseling.com/ Shanti Yoga & Counseling is a holistic center providing integrative healing services combining psychology, yoga and meditation, for mind-body balance and emotional wellness.

SIMONE AND ASSOCIATES PLLC (228) 604-0099 Simone and Associates PLLC offers individual therapy for adults, adolescents and children, as well as couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy/classes and psychological evaluations.

SINGING RIVER HEALTH SYSTEM

areas-of-care/behavioral-health/ Singing River Health System’s Behavioral Health Services offers physician-supervised inpatient and outpatient programs for those requiring mental health treatment and support.

SOUTH MISSISSIPPI REGIONAL CENTER (228) 868-2923 http://www.smrc.state.ms.us/ South Mississippi Regional Center has supported people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities SPECIALIZED TREATMENT FACILITY (228) 328-6000 www.stf.state.ms.us/ Specialized Treatment Facility (STF) provides psychiatric residential services for Mississippi adolescents who have been diagnosed with a mental disorder.

SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR VETERAN FAMILIES www.voa.org/supportive-services-forveteran-families The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program awards grants to private entities, which help eligible veteran families with outreach, case management, and assistance in obtaining VA and other benefits.

VICTORIA L SCOTT, LPC (228) 900-9962 www.psychologytoday.com/us/ therapists/victoria-l-scott-biloxims/350407 Scott helps clients struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relational and selfesteem issues and more.

WILL’S WAY LLC PEDIATRIC BEHAVIORAL PSYCHOLOGY (228) 731-3500 https://www.willswaybehavioral.com/ Will’s Way provides behavioral solutions for at-risk children and their families throughout Mississippi.

REQUEST COPIES If you’d like to have copies of the special May Day resource brochurce placed at your office, please email Latisha at: customerservice@ gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com NOT LISTED? Request to be added to this resource list. Email Jennifer at: Jen@ gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

TANISHA PHILLIPS, LPC (601) 342-0413 Phillips offers mental health counseling services.

TERI L. GAETHE LPC (614) 477-5467 Teri L. Gaethe offers mental health counseling services.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES (228) 696-9224 https://singingriverhealthsystem.com/

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