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Jewish American Heritage Month

Jaclyn Baker
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By: Christina Bein – LCSW 

When honoring Jewish American Heritage Month, it includes the consideration of the resilience and fortitude that is held to exist as people and practice their religion and culture without conviction. 

According to National Today, Jews arrived in what is now known as the U.S. in 1654, New Amsterdam. 

They sought to escape racism and start a new life, like many who have immigrated to the Americas, where they can freely celebrate their culture and traditions. Throughout history, this has been a challenge this community has faced, especially with the most well-known atrocity of the Holocaust between 1941-1945. 

There is a continued effort to fight against antisemitism, and they have built strong roots in the U.S. to promote awareness and a life that is full. 

One of the best ways to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month has been to celebrate their achievements and uplift the names of several Jewish influences and contributors to society within realms such as science, film, theatre, and literature. 

A few famous Jewish people include Albert Einstein, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sarah Silverman, and Adam Sandler. There are many Jewish people as the face or behind the scenes in the media which also means they have a big role in cultivating the American culture.

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Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Jaclyn Baker

By: Christina Bein – LCSW 

“Stop Asian Hate.” This phrase has become more present in our society since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. At the beginning of this pandemic, the world went through trying to understand the origin of the virus and how it came about. 

Prominent figures in society went on to nickname covid-19 as the “China Virus”. Whether it was purposeful or not, it caused violent consequences for a whole race. News stories popped up of Asian people being targeted with racial slurs and being condemned in association due to the coronavirus. It took the stereotype of “they all look the same” to a dangerous level for many people in this community. 

What would it look like to practice what is preached when the saying goes, “Be kind to your neighbor?” It would be to celebrate and open our mind to the different rich cultures that exist within a vast array of different peoples. Beyond the delicious cuisine, things that can be noted include tea and Chess originating from India, paper and fireworks being invented by ancient China, LED lights from Japan, and who doesn’t know about the globally famous K-Pop (South Korea) group BTS by now? 

Just as it has become mainstream to know about and tell the difference between the people and what they’re known for–like the confections from France, the architecture of Italy, the bespoke fashion from England – so too can we open ourselves to know the beautiful differences of the many countries, ethnicities, and cultures of Asia and how we have been experiencing these aspects since the great migration during the Gold Rush in the 1800s. 

We can often look to movies to get better insights into the intricacies of cultures. In the U.S. it is a beloved pastime to sit down in front of a television screen with a bowl of popcorn and explore other experiences. So why not add some of these titles to your next movie night? 

There are virtual and in-person events happening through the month of May to learn and celebrate Asian Pacific Heritage Month. 

Check out the links below for more information.

Asian Pacific Heritage

AARP

APANO

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration 2020

Asian Celebration

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International Day Against Homophobia

Jaclyn Baker
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The annual number of anti-LGTBQ bills has grown alarmingly in the past few years, going from 41 in 2018 to 238 in the first three months of 2022. This includes restricting the discussion of LGBTQ issues in school curriculums, permitting religious exemptions to discriminate against LGBTQ people and limiting trans people’s ability to play sports or receive gender-affirming health care. 

Political experts say the increase in state bills is more about lobbying on behalf of conservative groups and politicians looking to score support with their base than it is about public sentiment. The reality is, according to a Public Religion Research Institute survey, nearly 8 in 10 Americans support laws that protect LGBTQ people from discrimination in jobs, housing and public accommodations.  Additionally, nearly 70 percent of Americans support same-sex marriage.

But despite the public support, these bills serve to make those in the LGTBQ+ community feel unsafe in their communities and feel like their own states and communities do not want them or accept them.  These feelings of alienation result in an increased incidence of suicidal ideation.  According to The Trevor Project, their “ 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that 42% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth. “

On May 17th we observe the International Day Against Homophobia, which is a time to recognize the violence and discrimination experienced by the LGBTQ+ community. 

This date was chosen to commemorate the World Health Organization’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. 

A positive way to recognize this day is to learn about being an ally to LGTBQ+ friends and community members.  A very helpful resource for information and ideas is The Trevor Project.  They provide guides for being an ally to transgender and non binary youth and bisexual youth, how to have conversations about intersectional issues for those with multiple marginalized identities, and many more resources.  You can also volunteer your time or make a donation.

For more resources, you can check out the links below:

Resources for LGBT Youth and Friends/Supporters

Get Support | Anti-Violence Project

Stories | Out & Equal

Online Resources | LGBT Youthline

Reach A Counselor | The Trevor Project

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Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

Jaclyn Baker
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The current events of the world can create feelings of stress for many children. That, paired with the recent history of isolation and a loss of support systems, such as in-person school, has resulted in all kids feeling an increased sense of stress in their lives.  Helping kids deal with the stressors of uncertainty will help them be more successful in managing challenging times ahead.

Big Life Journal has some helpful resources to help kids deal with stress, including printable guides and worksheets. Some ideas for helping kids deal with stress include:

  • Re-frame stress–Stress can lead to growth if children understand that stressful situations will not last forever. These situations represent challenges to overcome and lessons to learn.  Seek to understand your child’s stress rather than dismiss it
  • Shift from a fixed to a growth mindset–it’s not fixed, it can be improved, and you do have the power to influence the situation.
  • Stop catastrophic thinking–do not dismiss their worry. Their concerns are very real to them and there have been a lot of reasons to worry recently.  But help them put words to their fears and focus on what they can control
  • Practice Problem solving–listen, discuss the positives and negatives of a situation, brainstorm solutions
  • Try stress management techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness, deep breathing, or yoga exercises for kids.

Although many kids may experience stress, there are also many kids experiencing a higher level of mental health issues.  On May 7th we can observe Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. The purpose of this awareness day is to increase public awareness about the needs of children with serious mental illness, provide information on evidence-based practices, and encourage those who need help to seek treatment.

According to the World Health Organization:‍

  • One in six U.S. children ages 6-17 has a treatable mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety problems or ADHD.‍
  • Half of all mental health conditions start at 14 years of age, but most cases are undetected and untreated.
  • The consequences of not addressing adolescent mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults.

It is important to have conversations with your children, to recognize when their mental health issues are more than just expected stress responses, and to get them help. Early intervention can have positive results that benefit them for the rest of their life. Therapy can have a significant impact on a child. And more severe issues can be addressed through a consult with your mental health provider as well as a doctor or psychiatrist if needed. Teaching our kids that it is okay to not be okay sometimes, is an important first step in them feeling like they can ask for help when they are struggling.  Taking care of a child’s mental health is as important as their physical health. We can create a safe space for our children, so they can feel good about themselves. 

Follow the resources below for more:

Virtual Events For Parents & Caring Adults 

What’s in the Guide for Parents: Caring for Kids with Mental Illness

Helping Children Cope 

Need Help? | Kids Help Phone 

Youth Mental Health | Mental Health America

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Women’s Health Month

Jaclyn Baker
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Women’s Health Month is observed throughout the month of May and is an awareness event that recognizes the different physical and mental concerns experienced by women and people who were assigned female at birth. From menopause to cervical cancer to childbirth, this is an important opportunity to raise awareness through educational campaigns with the goal being to empower people to prioritize their health.

Women’s health concerns can get discounted.  But 75% of new parents (especially moms) experience sleep deprivation, 23% of people that get their period need time off of work due to period-related issues, and menopause can cause significant symptoms for many women with the decreased estrogen levels also causing an increase in health risks.  Women can be a positive support to each other as they navigate these challenging health experiences.

During this month, we can also put our health and the health of women in our lives first. Whether we go in for a check-up or reach out to a friend in a time of need. 

For more resources, check out the links below:

Women’s Health Resources

Seven Facts To Know About Women’s Health | CDC

Featured Resources | National Women’s Health Network

WebMD Menopause Guide

Book: The Monopause Manifesto by Dr. Jen Gunter

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Mental Health Awareness Month

Jaclyn Baker
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Mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, behavior or mood.  It can significantly impact the activities of daily living and may also affect the ability to relate to others.  Mental illness is no one’s fault or the result of weakness.  It is the result of a confluence of factors including genetics, brain structure, biochemical processes (such as how your body produces or is able to use dopamine), environment and lifestyle influences (high stress, trauma experiences).   Mental health conditions are very common and nothing to be ashamed of.  According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 

  • 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
  • 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
  • 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
  • 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24

Unfortunately in many communities, the stigma of having a mental illness persists and discourages people from getting treatment because they are ashamed. The stigma around mental illness and treatment prevents 40% of people from reaching out and can create serious barriers to finding a diagnosis or treatment. 

At Vista, we view going to therapy as a general self-care task that everyone can benefit from, similar to getting a massage or going to the doctor to make sure your body stays healthy.  As there is a strong correlation between mental health and physical health, working on your mental health can benefit you in more than one way.  For example, people with serious mental illness are nearly twice as likely to develop cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population.

During May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a time to bring awareness to mental health issues and help to decrease the stigma around mental illness and treatment in our communities. 

Mental Health Awareness Month was first established in 1949 to highlight the importance of mental wellness and effective treatments that help people live full lives.

To reduce the stigma and emphasize the importance of treatment and recovery, we can educate ourselves about mental health and mental disorders. Being aware of our actions towards others allows us to place ourselves in someone else’s shoes.

This month’s goal is to provide a foundation for knowledge about mental health and give those the resources needed to seek help. 

Check out more resources below:

People Seeking Help | CDC Mental Health Resources

People Matter, Words Matter

Help For Mental Illnesses | National Institute of Mental Health

We All Have Mental Health | YouTube

Talk About Mental Health

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Understanding and Embracing The Highly Sensitive Person

Jaclyn Baker
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Have you heard of the term “Highly Sensitive Person” or HSP? 

Those who are HSPs are thought to have an increased central nervous system and have a sensitivity to physical, emotional, or social stimuli. These people are attuned to their inner state of mind and usually to the feeling or behaviors of those around them, 

HSPs can often feel overwhelmed by noises, colors, or temperatures. 

Here are some ways we can understand this term further and embrace ourselves or someone we may know who is an HSP.

The Thought Process

Have you ever felt rushed or that you had a short period of time?

Do you feel sensitive to bright lights?

Can you tell what someone is feeling from the tone of their voice?

These are just some scenarios that highlight what HSPs commonly experience. 

By acknowledging these traits and knowing what to look out for, we can get a sense of the thought process of an HSP and approach everyone with more empathy!

Acknowledging Strengths 

It’s important to also highlight the strengths of HSPs.

Highly sensitive people are able to be deeply moved by beauty and can feel strongly connected to themselves and others. 

Embracing these strengths, especially in our society, shows that there we can accept ourselves fully for who we are.

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Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day

Jaclyn Baker
,

By: Elizabeth Pownall  

On April 24, 1915, Ottoman authorities rounded up Armenian intellectuals, religious and political leaders in Constantinople, or modern-day Istanbul, executing most of them. The killing expanded into massacres of the male Armenian population across the Ottoman Empire. At the orders of Talaat Pasha, an estimated 800,000 to 1.2 million Armenian women, children, and elderly people were sent on death marches to the Syrian Desert. The deportees were deprived of food and water and were dispersed into concentration camps in the desert. This continued as the Turkish nationalist movement carried out massacres and ethnic cleansing of Armenian survivors during the Turkish War of Independence after World War I. 

The Young Turks – Talaat Pasha, Djemal Pasha, and Enver Pasha – were the leaders of the Ottoman Empire and the creators of the Armenian Genocide. In the end, three out of every four Armenians living in the Ottoman Empire were killed. The nation was ethnically cleansed of Armenian, Assyrian and Greek minorities. 

The Armenian Genocide is thought to have been a precedent set for the German Holocaust. The “Young Nazis”: Adolph Hitler, Heinrich Himmler, and Rudolf Hoess, emulated the Young Turks. According to historian Sefan Ihid, in his book Justifying Genocide, the Nazis viewed post-1923 Turkey, essentially cleansed of Armenians, as a post genocidal paradise and “incorporated the Armenian genocide, its ‘lessons’ tactics and ‘benefits’ into their own world view”. The Young Nazis saw how easy it was to focus blame on an ethic minority and rationalize their murder.

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Teaching Your Child How To Handle Conflict

Jaclyn Baker
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As a parent, it’s important to remember that your child will likely disagree with their friends from time to time, and it’s a normal part of life and friendship. 

Helping them navigate through arguments can give them the guidance to move past these disagreements. 

Showing children how to establish their boundaries and communication with their friends is something that can help today and in the future. 

Find Balance

We only want the best for our children, so it may be tempting to want to step in when they are fighting with a friend.

However, stepping in right away isn’t always the best solution. 

Giving them the opportunity to talk it out on their own can teach them very valuable problem-solving skills. 

What you can do, is offer them support, advice and comfort.

Grow As We Go

Fights are often personal for the people in them – meaning that your child and their friends might be fighting about something unique to their friendship. 

As they grow, you can assess what the situation calls for and how to brainstorm ideas to hopfully resolve it. 

Conflict Resolution 

It’s never too early to start teaching your children healthy conflict resolution skills. 

Of course, you will always be there for them, but eventually, they will reach a certain age where they can handle most situations independently.

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Exuding Confidence 101

Jaclyn Baker
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Having confidence in ourselves comes from believing we are capable of doing anything! 

When we think positively about our skills, qualities, and personality, it motivates us to embrace new opportunities. 

Reminding ourselves of our strengths each day can positively impact us in so many ways. 

Talk The Talk

Exuding confidence is all about how we talk to ourselves. 

Practicing positive self-talk can change our outlook and overall self-esteem. 

Our thoughts have the power to become a reality – both positively and negatively. You have the power to achieve great things by thinking positively. 

For example, you can create go-to phrases for yourself, such as “I’m perfect just as I am.” Or “I can achieve anything that comes my way.” 

Those kinds of thoughts can be great mood-boosters and work as a starting point to building more confidence. 

Think About The Past

We can measure our progress by reflecting upon how much we have grown over the past week, month or year. 

It’s important to remind ourselves of past successes to know that we can create similar opportunities in the future. 

You deserve to be proud of all your accomplishments. Even ones that have happened years ago. 

Taking trips down memory lane can help remind you just how talented and successful you are. 

“When you have confidence, you can do anything.” – Sloane Stevens

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Boosting Your Mental Health This Spring

Jaclyn Baker
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Spring signifies a time for change and renewal. 

As the season changes and plants begin to bloom, we can follow their lead and give ourselves a fresh start.

There is no better time than the present to motivate ourselves to tackle new goals. 

We can spring forward with these three steps.

Change Up Your Space

Even the smallest changes can make the biggest difference.

Changes such as rearranging some furniture or buying a piece of clothing you wouldn’t normally gravitate towards can give us a newfound burst of energy.

Give it a go and see what happens!

Reconnect With Others

Branching out can help us form new connections or reconnect with old ones. 

The people we spend time with can impact us in so many ways and allow us to experience new things. 

Making the effort to reach out to new people can potentially bring on lots of new positive experiences. 

Prioritize Your Sleep

Now that the sun is setting later and rising earlier, our sleep habits can change.

Getting appropoate sleep is crucial 365 days a year, and poor sleep can catch up on us.

If you’re starting to catch poor sleeping habits arise, now is the time to do something about it.

You may have to re-evaluate your current bedtime routine and make some changes depending on your needs.

Putting your phone away a couple of hours before bed, taking a hot bath or practicing light stretching are just a few healthy habits to consider. 

However, you may have to implement an experiment or two to find the best habits for your own needs.

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Arab American Heritage Month

Jaclyn Baker
,

By: Christina Bein – LCSW 

What a momentous occasion! Arab American Heritage Month passed permanent legislation to be recognized in the month of April by three states (Illinois, Oregon, and Virginia). More states are following in this effort to celebrate the culture and contributions to the community. 2022 may be the first year for these states to honor Arab Americans with this legislation, but it has been celebrated in schools and communities decades before.

Many Arab Americans have been part of the U.S. nation for multiple generations. Countries recognized as part of the Arab heritage include Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

To learn more about Arab American culture, check out the following links: