NAMI NH Registration and Sign Up Information | naminh

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#GetCovered by December 15th!

Health insurance plans sold on HealthCare.gov cannot discriminate against you due to your mental health condition. Play it safe. Start at HealthCare.gov. #GetCovered

December 12, 2019

NAMI NH ENews

Family-to-Family Coming to ROCHESTER, NH in January!

Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:30 PM (starting Jan. 8th)

Family-to-Family is an education program that is FREE for family members, partners, and friends of individuals 18 and older, who have a mental illness such as: Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Register for Family-to-Family in Rochester

Additional Family-to-Family Classes are Coming to Manchester and Nashua - learn more.

Public Policy Update

Progress on 3-Digit Number for a National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Hotline

Great news this week from the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation! S.2661 to designate 9-8-8 as the 3-digit number for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline passed out of committee on Wednesday, December 11th.

On Thursday, December 12th, the Federal Communications Commission will consider a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to designate 988 as the 3-digit number for a national suicide prevention & mental health crisis hotline.

Limited FREE Tickets Available - Reserve Your Seats Today!

Unite for Mental Health: New Hampshire Town Hall

Monday, December 16th, 6:30 PM at Saint Anselm College

Make Mental Health a Priority in 2020 Elections

Thank you to all who attended hearings, wrote letters or emails, called legislators, and otherwise advocated for mental health and suicide prevention in the Granite State this past legislative session. Your voices carried a lot of weight in making mental health a priority.

Let's do the same for the upcoming presidential primary and elevate the importance of improving the mental health service delivery system, suicide prevention, and research nationally by telling your stories and asking candidates key questions about mental health services.

Click for Sample Questions to Ask 2020 Presidential Candidates

Bird-Dogging Tips to Get Your Question Heard

#Act4MentalHealth

It's Your Move - Advocacy Trainings 2020

Do you want to learn how to better advocate for yourself or a loved one at the doctor's office or at school? Or how to support or argue for a cause or a policy change in your town or at the state level? Then NAMI NH's It's Your Move Advocacy Trainings 2020 are for you! See the flyer below for details!

Register for FREE Advocacy Trainings

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women's Clubs

.

The General Federation of Women's Clubs recently made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH's advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President's Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman's Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In the News

N.H. to Apply for Federal Waiver to Spend Medicaid Dollars on Mental Health

Integrating Brief Screen in ER May Better Identify Youth with Psychosis at Risk of Suicide

Black Mothers Get Less Treatment For Postpartum Depression Than Other Moms

Mental Illness, Suicide Prevention Get Funding Boost in New Hampshire

It's not a hotline, it's a 'warmline': It gives mental health help before a crisis heats up

NH's Police-Involved Shootings: Who Should Investigate?

Choking incident involving D-H patient, nurse shows need for change

Mental Health Is Still a 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Subject at Work

Yesterday in NH Emergency Departments...

.

28 adults and

8 children

.

were waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

Participants South for National Survey:

How Families Support Young Adults during Transition

Survey will document the support family members, parents and friends provide for young people with behavioral health needs during the transition years (16 to 25
years old).

The information provided will help youth- and family-run organizations, policy makers and service providers better understand and respond to the needs and preferences of young adults and their families.

Organizers are seeking survey participants who are:

1) family members/other allies who provided support to young adults with behavioral health challenges during their transition years (16 to 25 years old);

OR

2) young adults who are currently at least 18 years old who experienced behavioral health challenges during their transition years and receive or have received support from a family member or other ally.

If one of these categories describes you, participation is welcome by visiting the appropriate link below:

Family member/adult ally | Young adult | Learn more.

NAMI NH is Hiring - Join Our Team!

Public Policy Assistant (Concord, NH)

(16-24 hrs/wk)

The NAMI NH Public Policy Assistant is responsible for assisting the Executive Director and Board of Directors Public Policy Committee on public policy related initiatives and projects which may include researching legislation, preparing and presenting testimony, and summarizing hearings or committee meetings in writing.

Read full job description and apply online.

Image source: Yankee Publishing

Peer Recovery Support Specialist (Concord, NH)

(16-20 hrs/wk)

NAMI NH is seeking a part-time Peer Recovery Support Specialist for the NFI North, Concord location of Transitional Housing Services.

The Peer Recovery Support Specialist provides non-professional recovery support to individuals recovering from mental health disorders and possibly, co-occurring alcohol and drug problems. The Specialist works to help consumers in recovery connect with natural supports including family, faith-based supports, clean and sober community activities and women's services. The Peer Support Specialist should bring at least 5 years of lived experience in mental health or co-occurring disorders recovery to this position.

Read full job description and apply online.

Image source: Getty

(2) Family and Community Support Specialists (Manchester, NH)

(full-time - salaried, exempt)

The Family and Community Support Specialists (FCSS) will provide 1:1 support and education to families/primary caregivers of children, birth to age 8, with Serious Emotional Disturbances (SED) to improve mental health outcomes by adapting the NH Wraparound Practice Model. The FCSS will establish support groups and family education programs in Manchester.

Read full job description and apply online.

Additional Openings for Family and Community Support Specialists:

Carroll County/Conway Area
Claremont/Upper Valley
Coos County/SAU 7
Greater Nashua

Read full job descriptions and apply online.

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

Connect Suicide Prevention Program in Wyoming

Congratulations to our newest group of Connect Postvention trai

ners from Campbell County, Wyoming! This diverse group of postvention trainers includes two librarians, several members of the county sheriff's department, a county coroner, and many other representatives from schools and local service organizations.

Learn more about suicide prevention and postvention trainings available with NAMI New Hampshire's Connect Program.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day

Each year on the week before Thanksgiving, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) hosts International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day events around the world. It's a day for Loss Survivors to connect with others on their healing journey from losing a loved one, friend and or colleague to suicide. It's a day of reflection, healing and hope. There were 8 sites hosted in New Hampshire with over 100 in attendance. Deb Baird, Community Educator and Support Specialist from NAMI New Hampshire, attended the event held at New Hampshire Healthy Families in Bedford. Megan Melanson did a beautiful job in helping over 25 who attended to receive the love and support Loss Survivors and others want. Starting with activities to remember loved ones to watching a beautiful 20 minute film, and a mindfulness exercise to end the day. Reach 1 Teach 1 Love 1 and NAMI New Hampshire were present to help with this inspiring and hopeful day.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline '1-800-273-TALK (8255)'

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire's Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

New GREATER MILFORD Parent & Caregiver Group

Greater Milford Parent & Caregiver Group
1st Thursday each month

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley
56 Mont Vernon Street, Milford NH

For more information: MilfordNHPCG@gmail.com

**If this is your first time attending, please contact us to confirm time and location and to let us know you are coming.

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings

All are welcome to attend the Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings. These meetings typically take place on the 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm at NAMI New Hampshire. To learn more or to RSVP, please message Michelle Wagner .

Updated NAMI Family-to-Family Course Format Coming in 2020

NAMI National is currently testing the revised NAMI Family-to-Family program in the states of Arkansas, Florida, Ohio, South Carolina and Texas. The new course is eight sessions long and includes updated research, optional slide decks and the videos released in 2018.

Because NAMI Family-to-Family is an evidence-based program, NAMI National has approached all edits and changes cautiously, seeking input from the researchers who have studied the course, teachers, trainers, graduates and creator Dr. Joyce Burland.

NAMI Family-to-Family Teachers won't need to attend the training again but will need to complete a webinar to teach the revised version of the course. State Trainers will be re-certified after completing a webinar and an online training module.

For questions or more information, please contact NAMI NH's Liz Hodgkins.

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

SMI Adviser's Webinar On Peer Support

Friday, Dec. 13th, 12-1 PM

Register Online Now

What Will It Cover?

This webinar explores the benefits of peer support in combating loneliness and social exclusion, two factors that destroy health and happiness. Research has shown that the lack of "connectedness" to friends and community worsens psychiatric problems and leads to chronic illness and early mortality. People living with thought disorders, like schizophrenia, have the most difficulties in forming personal relationships of all disabilities. Social inclusion offers opportunities to re-engage with the community and form positive relationships. Mental Health America's Social Self-Directed Care program and work compiled by the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion emphasize the value of peer support in assisting individuals with serious psychiatric disorders form social connections and personal relationships.

Who Will Be Presenting?

Patrick Hendry, Vice President of Peer Advocacy, Supports and Services for Mental Health America. He has worked as an advocate and initiator of peer-run services for 27 years in a variety of leadership roles.

Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network

Check out upcoming trainings from the Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network:

Principles and Practices of Recovery-Oriented Care

Advancing Health Equity and Racial Justice in Children's Behavioral Health

Learn more and register online.

Looking for Support?

.

NAMI NH Support Groups are a place to make important connections to others who:

- understand the challenges you face and the opportunities ahead

- feel the same way you do

- have had the same experiences

- will help you learn new coping skills

- will share their successes and strategies with you

Through affiliates around the state, NAMI NH offers supports groups to family members and parents who have a loved one with mental illness, as well as individuals living with mental illness.

Find a support group near you.

Family Support Groups - for family members and friends of adults with mental illness

Parent Support Groups - for parents of children/adolescents with serious emotional disorders

Peer Support - information on support centers and groups for adults with mental illness

Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOSL) - listing of support groups for adults who have lost a loved one to suicide

Click here for a newly updated schedule of SOSL Groups in NH.

NAMI NH's Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they're places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. These closed Facebook groups require an add from admins - click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don't hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

NAMI Basics Now Available OnDemand for Granite Staters

Register for NAMI Basics OnDemand

Development News

Thanks for a Wonderful Comedy Night!

NAMI New Hampshire was the recent beneficiary of a comedy night at Tupelo Music Hall, hosted and coordinated by Sgt. Steven Callinan of the NH State Police and Christine Ferwerda. Sgt. Callinan and Christine organized the event as part of a class leadership project, raising both awareness of good mental health and suicide prevention as well as nearly $2,000 for NAMI New Hampshire. Over 120 attendees enjoyed a night of laughter, silent auctions, and raffles to benefit NAMI New Hampshire. We are grateful to the NH State Police for their partnership and ongoing support of our mission, and to the many community members who attended the event and helped make it a success.

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 70 1/2 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I'm biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Mark Your Calendar

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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The Crisis Intervention Team Steering Committee hopes you are enjoying a safe and happy holiday season!

Learn about Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Mental Health Awareness & De-escalation Training for Police/Fire/EMS.

December 27, 2019

NAMI NH ENews

NAMI NH Exec. Dir. Ken Norton

Unite for Mental Health:

New Hampshire Town Hall

NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton presented at Unite for Mental Health: New Hampshire Town Hall on December 16th. Click the video to hear Ken's analysis of the current mental health system.

"It's time for a new vision of mental health care in our country that focuses on prevention and early intervention...

I have 3 requests:

First, that we substitute the word 'discrimination' for 'stigma' because discrimination is at the root of our current systems of inadequate care...

Second, I ask each of you, 'What have you done today to provide hope to an individual struggling with mental health issues or addiction, or for their caregivers or family members?'...

Lastly, we all need to be informed through events like this, and get out and vote..."

#Act4MentalHealth

Make Mental Health a Priority in 2020 Elections

Click for Sample Questions to Ask 2020 Presidential Candidates

Bird-Dogging Tips to Get Your Question Heard

#Act4MentalHealth

"Naughty Or..."

NAMI Launches Holiday PSA

This holiday season, for the first time in 1,000 years, Santa is focusing on signs, not labels.

50% of mental health conditions begin by age 14 - that's why this year, Santa is delivering a reminder to pay attention to children's mental health and look out for warning signs. Learn more about them at www.nami.org/knowthesigns

Thanks to our partners at Wieden + Kennedy New York, HBO, O Positive, Arcade and more for helping us spread this important message this holiday season.

2019 Donor Impact

The generosity of our donors helps NAMI New Hampshire provide support, education, and advocacy to over 29,000 Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Click here to give to NAMI New Hampshire today.

In 2019, your gifts helped us:

Break not one, not two, but THREE records at the 17th Annual NAMIWalks NH! With over 2,100 Walkers, 115 teams, and over $172,000 raised for programs and services, we are the Granite State's largest mental health and suicide prevention event.
Offer individual support and education to over 500 families
Train nearly 2,200 people in Connect Suicide Prevention and Postvention, including 320 youth and young adults
Provide education programs and support groups to over 600 individuals and family members
Educate the community with nearly 2,000 presentations from our Speakers' Bureaus
Advocate for the 10-Year Mental Health Plan and a budget to implement urgently needed changes to NH's mental health system

Thank you for giving the transformational gift of hope. We are grateful for your support!

Public Policy Update

Senate and FCC Act on 9-8-8

NAMI continues to advocate for 9-8-8 as the 3-digit dialing code for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline. This would make it easier for Americans experiencing a mental health crisis to receive immediate and appropriate mental health support and referral in their area. Actions by the Senate and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) earlier this month moved us closer to making this a reality.

NOTE: While NAMI is thrilled about these steps forward, there are many additional steps before 9-8-8 becomes an active number and resource for those in crisis. In the meantime, anyone in crisis should continue to call the existing National Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Action in Congress

The House and Senate are both considering The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2019 (H.R. 4194 in the House and S. 2661 in the Senate). These bills would direct the FCC to designate 9-8-8 as the national number for mental health emergencies and create opportunities for state and local governments to establish fees to support the implementation and operation of the number.

On Wednesday, December 11, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation unanimously passed S. 2661 out of committee. We are hopeful that the bill will be considered by the full Senate next year.

NAMI continues to advocate for the House Committee on Energy and Commerce to hold a hearing on H.R. 4194 early in 2020.

Action by the Federal Communications Commission

On Thursday, December 12, the FCC voted unanimously to release a rule proposing that calls made to 9-8-8 be directed to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The FCC has the authority to designate a number and outline a process for implementation, but it does not have the authority to establish a funding source for 9-8-8. Because of this, NAMI will continue to push for The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act to become law, as funding will be critical to nationwide implementation of a 3-digit crisis number.

When will the number be available?

Many news outlets have reported on the action taken by the FCC as if 9-8-8 already exists and is ready to use. However, the 9-8-8 number is not yet active, and implementation may take many months or years.

Click for current 24/7 crisis lines.

What's next?

Continue to advocate to pass H.R. 4194 and S. 2661. You can contact your Representatives here and your Senators here.

How the Latest ACA Court Ruling Impacts People with Mental Illness

What happened?

A year ago, the Texas District Court ruled in the case Texas v. United States that the entire Affordable Care Act (ACA) was unconstitutional. However, that decision was appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, which issued its ruling yesterday. The Court of Appeals agreed with the Texas District Court that the ACA's requirement for individuals to purchase health insurance is unconstitutional. The "individual mandate" required that most Americans have a basic level of health insurance coverage.

The ruling did not determine if the entire ACA is unconstitutional. Instead, the Court of Appeals is sending the case back to the Texas District Court to determine if the individual mandate can be "severed" from the rest of the ACA, and to consider whether a ruling should be limited to just the states in the case or apply to all states. The defendants in the case have asked the Supreme Court to review the decision; however, a Supreme Court review and decision is likely at least a year away.

What does this mean for people's coverage?

No one will lose their coverage or have protections stripped away because of this ruling at this time.

The current law remains in place as the case awaits further action by the courts.

Specifically, protections in the ACA for millions of Americans with pre-existing conditions will stay in place; people who have purchased health care for 2020 from HealthCare.gov will remain covered; and the millions of Americans who have coverage through Medicaid expansion will also remain covered.

What could this ruling mean?

The invalidation of the ACA, if affirmed by the lower court and upheld on appeal to the Supreme Court, would touch nearly every corner of the health care system and affect virtually every American. If upheld, this would be devastating for people with mental illness:

Millions of individuals and families covered through the ACA's Medicaid expansion, including people with mental illness, would lose their coverage.

Millions of individuals who purchase individual or small group health insurance plans would lose important protections-and could even lose their coverage. These plans would no longer be required to:

Cover preexisting conditions, like mental illness;
Guarantee coverage to everyone who applies;
Charge people with mental illness the same price as others for the same plan;
Provide parity coverage for mental health and substance use conditions;
Cover conditions without lifetime and annual limits; and
Cover mental health medications the same way they cover other medications.

Medicare beneficiaries would lose free coverage of important preventive services and could see the Part D prescription drug "donut hole" reopen, imposing higher drug costs.

Americans who have health insurance through their employer would

Lose their right to preventive services;
See waiting periods for coverage of pre-existing conditions;
Lose coverage of children to age 26; and
See lifetime and annual dollar limits of coverage reappear.

NAMI will continue to monitor this situation and fight against efforts to turn back the clock to a time when health insurance plans discriminated against people with mental illness.

It's Your Move - Advocacy Trainings 2020

Do you want to learn how to better advocate for yourself or a loved one at the doctor's office or at school? Or how to support or argue for a cause or a policy change in your town or at the state level? Then NAMI NH's It's Your Move Advocacy Trainings 2020 are for you! See the flyer below for details!

The Saturday, January 18 session of It's Your Move 1.0 is almost full. We will be taking a waitlist once it is full. There are still seats available for the Wednesday evening sessions on Wednesday, January 29 and February 5.

Register for FREE Advocacy Trainings

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women's Clubs

.

The General Federation of Women's Clubs recently made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH's advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President's Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman's Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In the News

Hospital CEO tapped as N.H. health commissioner

Presidential candidates take on topic of mental health care access

A few simple questions could help doctors stem the suicide epidemic

Sununu says HHS can be cut $25M without layoffs

Addiction treatment providers agree the Doorway is working

Scientists May Have Just Discovered the Brain Circuits Behind Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Social Media Has Become a Place to Talk About Mental Illness. But Is That Helpful?

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

.

13 adults and

1 child

.

are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH is Hiring - Join Our Team!

Image source: Getty

(2) Family and Community Support Specialists (Manchester, NH)

(full-time - salaried, exempt)

The Family and Community Support Specialists (FCSS) will provide 1:1 support and education to families/primary caregivers of children, birth to age 8, with Serious Emotional Disturbances (SED) to improve mental health outcomes by adapting the NH Wraparound Practice Model. The FCSS will establish support groups and family education programs in Manchester.

Read full job description and apply online.

Additional Openings for Family and Community Support Specialists:

Carroll County/Conway Area
Claremont/Upper Valley
Coos County/SAU 7
Greater Nashua

Read full job descriptions and apply online.

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

The Trevor Project Releases National Survey on

LGBTQ Youth Mental Health

The Trevor Project's recently released inaugural National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health includes these key findings:

* 39% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past twelve months, with more than half of transgender and non-binary youth having seriously considered

* 71% of LGBTQ youth reported feeling sad or hopeless for at least two weeks in the past year

Read the full report.

Individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a higher risk for mental health issues. Support from family members, friends, colleagues, and community members is critical.

Connect with LGBTQ+ resources. | Click for 24/7 crisis support resources.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline '1-800-273-TALK (8255)'

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire's Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Parents Meeting the Challenge - Online Live! Class

Learn more & register today!

Take the FREE Parents Meeting the Challenge 8-session educational program from the comfort of your own home!

Family-to-Family Coming to ROCHESTER, NH in January!

Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:30 PM (starting Jan. 8th)

Family-to-Family is an education program that is FREE for family members, partners, and friends of individuals 18 and older, who have a mental illness such as: Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Register for Family-to-Family in Rochester

Additional Family-to-Family Classes are Coming to Manchester and Nashua - learn more.

New GREATER MILFORD Parent & Caregiver Group

Greater Milford Parent & Caregiver Group
1st Thursday each month

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley
56 Mont Vernon Street, Milford NH

For more information: MilfordNHPCG@gmail.com

**If this is your first time attending, please contact us to confirm time and location and to let us know you are coming.

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings

All are welcome to attend the Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings. These meetings typically take place on the 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm at NAMI New Hampshire. To learn more or to RSVP, please message Michelle Wagner .

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

Looking for Support?

.

NAMI NH Support Groups are a place to make important connections to others who:

- understand the challenges you face and the opportunities ahead

- feel the same way you do

- have had the same experiences

- will help you learn new coping skills

- will share their successes and strategies with you

Through affiliates around the state, NAMI NH offers supports groups to family members and parents who have a loved one with mental illness, as well as individuals living with mental illness.

Find a support group near you.

Family Support Groups - for family members and friends of adults with mental illness

Parent Support Groups - for parents of children/adolescents with serious emotional disorders

Peer Support - information on support centers and groups for adults with mental illness

Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOSL) - listing of support groups for adults who have lost a loved one to suicide

Click here for a newly updated schedule of SOSL Groups in NH.

NAMI NH's Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they're places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. These closed Facebook groups require an add from admins - click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don't hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Development News

Round-It-Up in January at Concord Food Co-op to Support NAMI New Hampshire!

NAMI New Hampshire has been selected as the January 2020 recipient of the Concord Food Co-op's Round-It-Up at the Register program. Round-It-Up at the Register empowers shoppers to round their purchase to the nearest dollar and donate the difference to partnered organizations.

Stop by the Concord Food Co-op at 52 South Main Street during the month of January and Round-It-Up to support Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Save the Date!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire's largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Stay tuned for registration and Kick Off details...

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 70 1/2 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I'm biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Mark Your Calendar

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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Hi, just a reminder that you're receiving this email because you have expressed an interest in NAMI NH. Don't forget to add development@naminh.org to your address book so we'll be sure to land in your inbox!

You may unsubscribe if you no longer wish to receive our emails.

Dear Friend,

Hope is powerful. At NAMI New Hampshire, we have the privilege of witnessing the power of hope daily. This year, more than ever, we saw hope motivate and inspire our NAMI New Hampshire family to take action and advocate for change. Broken hearts speak loudly. This was clear as the passionate voices of those affected by mental illness and suicide told their deeply personal stories in support of New Hampshire's 10-Year Mental Health Plan, and a budget to begin implementing urgently needed changes to the mental health system.

You can honor those voices and make a difference.

Your gift today will help sustain NAMI New Hampshire's valuable education and support programs, and our collective advocacy efforts to ensure the Granite State continues on a path to a renewed and robust mental health system. In just five years, the number of individuals served by NAMI New Hampshire has more than doubled, reaching an all-time high in 2019 of 29,000 Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. Yet, requests for our services exceed our capacity to provide them.

Giving to NAMI New Hampshire helps transform lives through the power of hope. Families like Terri's consistently turn to NAMI New Hampshire for the support only those who have been there can provide:

NAMI NH has been a wonderful help through the years for my family. I reached out to them when my son was young. The support has been so wonderful, and knowing they understand how unpredictable life can be from day to day - and sometimes moment to moment - is so reassuring. The family peer support has been wonderful as a mom of both an adolescent and a grown child and grandchild with mental illness. The roller coaster ride is much easier to endure with others who understand.

This holiday season, we look ahead to a new year that will bring much needed changes to New Hampshire's mental health system. Together, we can make an even greater impact. Thank you, today and always, for your support of NAMI New Hampshire's mission and all Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Hope starts with you. We are fortunate to have you as a member of the NAMI New Hampshire family.

With gratitude,

Kenneth Norton, LICSW

Executive Director

Peter Janelle

President, Board of Directors

Ways to Give

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your will, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity.

If you are age 70 1/2 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

For more information, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or visit our website. However you choose to give, we thank you for your support!

NAMI New Hampshire recommends all donors consult with their legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions to determine how to achieve the best tax savings and make a gift that best meets your financial and philanthropic goals.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

STAY CONNECTED:

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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Congratulations to the latest graduates of It's Your Move Basic 1.0! These mental health advocates now have the training and skills to speak up even more effectively on behalf of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #Act4MentalHealth

Take part in an upcoming FREE It's Your Move 1.0 or 2.0 training!

January 19, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

NAMI New Hampshire Awarded SAMHSA Grant

for Youth Suicide Prevention

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services announced on January 13, 2020 that NAMI New Hampshire (NAMI NH) was awarded the Garrett Lee Smith Grant for Youth Suicide Prevention. The 5-year, $3.6 million grant will enable NAMI NH and its project partners to deploy a cross-systems, collaborative approach to reduce suicide incidents among youth by improving pathways to care and offering comprehensive training to identify, screen, refer, and treat at-risk youth.

As a grassroots coalition of people living with mental illness/serious emotional disturbance, their families, and survivors of suicide loss, NAMI NH has over 35 years of service to children, transition age youth, adults and older adults. NAMI NH is highly regarded in NH, nationally, and internationally for its work in the field of suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention.

Governor Chris Sununu championed suicide prevention efforts in his 2019 inaugural address. In designating NAMI NH to be the applicant for this grant on behalf of the State of New Hampshire, Governor Sununu noted NAMI NH's "expertise and leadership has created systemic change, forged successful partnerships with the public and private sector, and established a strong foundation upon which to build with this next proposal and the current initiatives underway in our state."

Objectives for the 5-year Garrett Lee Smith Grant for Youth Suicide Prevention include:

Develop a Care Liaison role in each region to facilitate pathways to care for high-risk youth/young adults.
Leverage technology to advance screening and assessment and improve care coordination and cross-systems communication.
Convene and train regional implementation teams comprised of providers serving high-risk youth in suicide prevention/intervention/postvention.
Engage regional teams in planning to build infrastructure around best practices for suicide prevention/postvention.
Develop youth/young adult leadership in regional youth suicide prevention efforts.
Engage statewide organizations that interface with at-risk youth/young adults in suicide prevention/postvention training and planning.
Promote safe messaging in accordance with the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention (NAASP) framework.
Enhance and expand National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) follow up calls.

NAMI NH Executive Director Ken Norton stated, "It is critical for NH to capitalize on the recent momentum surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. NH's recently released 10-Year Mental Health Plan included both a focus on early intervention and prevention for children and youth, as well as recommendations to renew and intensify efforts to address suicide prevention. The grant will dovetail with suicide prevention initiatives and funding passed during the 2019 legislative session. NAMI NH is grateful to our Congressional delegation for their national support of increased funding for suicide prevention, and especially to Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a longtime suicide prevention advocate."

The grant project will focus on youth/young adults ages 10-24 in the Capital Region and North Country/Carroll County, as recent rates of suicide in those regions were higher than in other areas of the state.

The 5-year SAMHSA grant project will be led by Elaine de Mello, Director of NAMI NH's Connect Suicide Prevention Program. For the past 20 years, de Mello has served a vital role in the development of NAMI NH's Connect Program, a National Best Practice Program that has trained in nearly every state, as well as in 40 tribal nations and 6 countries.

Parents Meeting the Challenge - Online Live! Class

Learn more & register today!

Take the FREE Parents Meeting the Challenge 8-session educational program from the comfort of your own home!

Public Policy Update

Your Voice Needed to Lower the Cost of Prescription Drugs!

Tuesday, January 21st, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NH State House, Room 100, 107 North Main St., Concord, NH

Prescription medications are an absolute necessity for many Granite Staters living with mental illness. The cost of prescription drugs in NH increased 32% from 2012 to 2017, leaving many patients unable to afford necessary medications.

Please share your story with legislators, and ask them to lower the cost of prescription drugs!

On Tuesday, January 21stat the NH State House, hearings will take place on the following bills:

1:00 PM - SB 685: Drug Affordability(allowing importation of lower cost prescription drugs from Canada)

1:30 PM - SB 690: Drug Accessibility(preventing insurance companies from changing drug coverage during a plan year)

1:45 PM - SB 687: Drug Price Transparency(creating a NH drug affordability board to monitor changes in the cost of prescription drugs)

A few important notes:

Please RSVP so we can keep you posted with any changes to the hearing schedule.
These hearings will likely run beyond their allotted times - please come for any/all that you are able to attend.
Advocates are welcome to park at NAMI NH, 85 North State St., Concord, and walk over to the State House.
NAMI NH's Advocacy Team is happy to assist you in preparing testimony - please reach out to get connected.

NAMI NH Exec. Dir. Ken Norton

Unite for Mental Health:

New Hampshire Town Hall

NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton presented at Unite for Mental Health: New Hampshire Town Hall on December 16th. Click the video to hear Ken's analysis of the current mental health system.

"It's time for a new vision of mental health care in our country that focuses on prevention and early intervention...

I have 3 requests:

First, that we substitute the word 'discrimination' for 'stigma' because discrimination is at the root of our current systems of inadequate care...

Second, I ask each of you, 'What have you done today to provide hope to an individual struggling with mental health issues or addiction, or for their caregivers or family members?'...

Lastly, we all need to be informed through events like this, and get out and vote..."

#Act4MentalHealth

Make Mental Health a Priority in 2020 Elections

Click for Sample Questions to Ask 2020 Presidential Candidates

Bird-Dogging Tips to Get Your Question Heard

#Act4MentalHealth

It's Your Move - Advocacy Trainings 2020

Do you want to learn how to better advocate for yourself or a loved one at the doctor's office or at school? Or how to support or argue for a cause or a policy change in your town or at the state level? Then NAMI NH's It's Your Move Advocacy Trainings 2020 are for you!

Register for FREE Advocacy Trainings

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women's Clubs

.

The General Federation of Women's Clubs recently made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH's advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President's Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman's Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In the News

More psychiatric beds means fewer people waiting in ERs

Portsmouth hospital adding psychiatric beds amid NH shortage

Mental health access hindered by low Medicaid rates

Red flag bill passes House, possible veto target

N.H. House Votes to Repeal Medicaid Work Requirement

Public Weighs In On Shibinette Nomination To Head DHHS

Too young to die: Mental illness takes a toll

Program brings recovery coaches into hospital emergency department

How Parents Can Address the Spike in Tween Depression

State Reconsiders Strategy for Youth Addiction Treatment Center

Yesterday in NH Emergency Departments...

.

27 adults and

7 children

.

were waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH is Hiring - Join Our Team!

Staff Accountant (Concord, NH)

NAMI NH is searching for a detail-oriented, organized individual with a positive and flexible approach to problem solving and decision-making. The staff accountant must demonstrate proactive communication skills and be able to meet deadlines and reporting time frames. Knowledge of computerized accounting systems, and the ability to gather and analyze detailed accounting information to ensure timely and accurate reporting of financial data are important qualities. Heavy emphasis on month end closing procedures, and account reconciliations.

Read full job description and apply online.

Image source: Getty

(2) Family and Community Support Specialists (Manchester, NH)

(full-time - salaried, exempt)

The Family and Community Support Specialists (FCSS) will provide 1:1 support and education to families/primary caregivers of children, birth to age 8, with Serious Emotional Disturbances (SED) to improve mental health outcomes by adapting the NH Wraparound Practice Model. The FCSS will establish support groups and family education programs in Manchester.

Read full job description and apply online.

Additional Openings for Family and Community Support Specialists:

Carroll County/Conway Area
Claremont/Upper Valley
Coos County/SAU 7
Greater Nashua

Read full job descriptions and apply online.

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

The Trevor Project Releases National Survey on

LGBTQ Youth Mental Health

The Trevor Project's recently released inaugural National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health includes these key findings:

* 39% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past twelve months, with more than half of transgender and non-binary youth having seriously considered

* 71% of LGBTQ youth reported feeling sad or hopeless for at least two weeks in the past year

Read the full report.

Individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a higher risk for mental health issues. Support from family members, friends, colleagues, and community members is critical.

Connect with LGBTQ+ resources. | Click for 24/7 crisis support resources.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline '1-800-273-TALK (8255)'

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire's Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Family-to-Family Coming to DERRY, NH in March!

Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:30 PM (starting March 11th)

Family-to-Family is an education program that is FREE for family members, partners, and friends of individuals 18 and older, who have a mental illness such as: Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Register for Family-to-Family in Derry

Additional Family-to-Family Classes are Coming to Portsmouth and Nashua - learn more.

New GREATER MILFORD Parent & Caregiver Group

Greater Milford Parent & Caregiver Group
1st Thursday each month

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley
56 Mont Vernon Street, Milford NH

For more information: MilfordNHPCG@gmail.com

**If this is your first time attending, please contact us to confirm time and location and to let us know you are coming.

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings

All are welcome to attend the Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings. These meetings typically take place on the 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm at NAMI New Hampshire. To learn more or to RSVP, please message Michelle Wagner .

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

Looking for Support?

.

NAMI NH Support Groups are a place to make important connections to others who:

- understand the challenges you face and the opportunities ahead

- feel the same way you do

- have had the same experiences

- will help you learn new coping skills

- will share their successes and strategies with you

Through affiliates around the state, NAMI NH offers supports groups to family members and parents who have a loved one with mental illness, as well as individuals living with mental illness.

Find a support group near you.

Family Support Groups - for family members and friends of adults with mental illness

Parent Support Groups - for parents of children/adolescents with serious emotional disorders

Peer Support - information on support centers and groups for adults with mental illness

Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOSL) - listing of support groups for adults who have lost a loved one to suicide

Click here for a newly updated schedule of SOSL Groups in NH.

NAMI NH's Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they're places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. These closed Facebook groups require an add from admins - click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don't hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Development News

Thank You, NHSP Sgt. Steven Callinan!

At a recent meeting of NAMI New Hampshire's Board of Directors, NH State Police Sgt. Steven Callinan was recognized for hosting a successful comedy night fundraiser in support of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. Thank you, Sgt. Callinan!

Local Hiker to Complete The Great Northern Loop in Support of NAMI NH

Local hiker Erica Notini will be covering 7,000 miles of The Great Northern Loop over 304 days, while raising money to support NAMI New Hampshire. Erica was selected by The Push Beyond to join one of three teams of hikers participating in the challenge. Each hiker is raising money for a charity of their choice.

The Great Western Loop will take hikers through 9 states, 12 National Parks, the Sonoran Dessert, the Mojave Dessert, and 75 wilderness areas.

Learn more about The Push Beyond and The Great Western Loop.

Visit Erica's personal blog.

(Pictured (L to R): NAMI NH Exec. Dir. Ken Norton, Erica Notini, NAMI NH Deputy Dir. Susan Stearns)

Round-It-Up in January at Concord Food Co-op to Support NAMI New Hampshire!

NAMI New Hampshire has been selected as the January 2020 recipient of the Concord Food Co-op's Round-It-Up at the Register program. Round-It-Up at the Register empowers shoppers to round their purchase to the nearest dollar and donate the difference to partnered organizations.

Stop by the Concord Food Co-op at 52 South Main Street during the month of January and Round-It-Up to support Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Save the Date!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire's largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings start back up soon! If you're interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 70 1/2 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I'm biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Mark Your Calendar

BEDLAM: Free Film Screening

Tuesday, March 31st, 6 PM

Red River Theatres, Concord

Filmmaker and practicing psychiatrist, Ken Rosenberg visits ERs, jails, and homeless camps to examine our national mental health crisis. Rosenberg follows the poignant stories of people grappling with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other chronic psychiatric conditions, whose silence and shame often worsen the suffering.

The film will be followed by a panel discussion. Bedlam is sponsored by NAMI New Hampshire and Riverbend Community Mental Health.

Tickets are FREE, but registration is encouraged.

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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New Hampshire's First-in-the-Nation Primary is Tuesday, February 11th!

This presidential primary, let's continue to elevate the importance of improving the mental health service delivery system, suicide prevention, and research by asking candidates key questions about mental health services:

Sample 2020 Presidential Candidate Questions About Mental Health

Bird-Dogging Basics (Get Your Question Heard!)

January 31, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

Public Policy Update

NAMI New Hampshire Identifies 2020 Legislative Priorities

In addition to advocating for mental health priorities at the national level, NAMI NH's 2020 legislative priorities here in the Granite State include:

Pharmaceuticals & Pricing

Addressing rising prescription prices in NH, to ensure pharmaceutical treatment options are available to all.

Suicide Prevention Measures

Extreme Risk protective orders (temporary removal of firearms for individuals who are dangerous - especially as a suicide prevention measure).
Waiting period between the purchase and delivery of a firearm.

Children

Medicaid to schools.
Funding relative to multi-tiered systems of support.
Coverage for children's early intervention services.
Provision of special education services for older students.

First Responders

Death benefits in instances of suicide loss.
Psychological exams.
Public review of officer-involved shootings.

Medicaid Block Grant

Opposing the Medicaid Block Grant proposal in favor of a more effective multi-tiered approach for the statewide mental health system.

NAMI New Hampshire Responds to Mental Health Parity Examination Results Released by New Hampshire Insurance Department

On January 27, 2020, Acting New Hampshire Insurance Commissioner Alex Feldvebel made public the results of three examinations focused on compliance with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA/Parity Act) of 2008. These market conduct examinations, the first in any state to look at parity in MHPAEA provider reimbursement practices, focused on companies participating in New Hampshire's Health Insurance Marketplace.

Under the Parity Act, health insurance companies are required to provide coverage for mental health (MH) and substance use disorder (SUD) services at an equal level as those services provided for medical and surgical (M/S).

For the past several years, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has released national studies and research demonstrating the disparities relative to insurance company reimbursement practices for mental health and substance use disorder as compared to medical and surgical procedures. The results of this New Hampshire market conduct analysis are consistent with the types of disparities which NAMI has reported on nationally.

Ken Norton, Executive Director of NAMI New Hampshire (NAMI NH), stated, "These issues are complicated and we've seen across the country, companies struggling to come into compliance with federal parity laws. While the findings of significant disparities in New Hampshire are troubling, we're fortunate to have companies like Anthem and Harvard Pilgrim who although not in agreement with the findings, have been willing to extend themselves and to, in this case, identify constructive solutions which will improve parity and access issues for individuals seeking mental health services in New Hampshire."

In an example of successful partnership and collaboration, for the past several years the New Hampshire Insurance Department has been convening the Mental Health and Addiction Services Advisory Committee to assist with providing input on these matters. NAMI NH is appreciative of Acting New Hampshire Insurance Commissioner Alex Feldvebel's active leadership and participation, from the inception of the committee. NAMI New Hampshire, as well as Anthem and Harvard Pilgrim, are active members of the committee which meets next on February 14, 2020 for a formal review of the results of the market conduct analysis.

Norton remarked, "NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to the New Hampshire Insurance Department for their leadership in working to address parity issues by conducting this analysis. The far-reaching impact of parity disparities is a significant contributing factor in workforce shortages among mental health and substance misuse treatment providers in New Hampshire. These disparities may also be a contributing factor in the shortage of psychiatrists locally and nationally, as medical school students with significant student loan debt contemplate lower reimbursement rates for psychiatry, as compared to other specialty areas."

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women's Clubs

.

The General Federation of Women's Clubs recently made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH's advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President's Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman's Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In the News

State bill would include suicide in first responder line-of-duty deaths

Shibinette confirmed to lead N.H.'s health department

NH bill would study police-shooting oversight

State seeks ideas for teen psychiatric center

Gov. Sununu Says Progress Being Made in State's ER Boarding Crisis

How the Music Industry is Fighting the Mental-Health Crisis

Opinion: Prescription drug relief is long overdue in NH

First responders overcome history to ask for help

Yesterday in NH Emergency Departments...

.

39 adults and

5 children

.

were waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH is Hiring - Join Our Team!

Suicide Prevention Project Coordinator (Concord, NH)

Made possible by a five year grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), NAMI NH is hiring a Project Coordinator (PC) to implement Project deliverables as indicated in the work plan and ensure work is consistent with the goals of the NH Suicide Prevention Plan and the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. The PC will work closely with Project partners, key stakeholders, and collaborators; and will assist with the development and implementation of community-based suicide prevention protocols.

Read full job description and apply online.

Staff Accountant (Concord, NH)

NAMI NH is searching for a detail-oriented, organized individual with a positive and flexible approach to problem solving and decision-making. The staff accountant must demonstrate proactive communication skills and be able to meet deadlines and reporting time frames. Knowledge of computerized accounting systems, and the ability to gather and analyze detailed accounting information to ensure timely and accurate reporting of financial data are important qualities. Heavy emphasis on month end closing procedures, and account reconciliations.

Read full job description and apply online.

Image source: Getty

(2) Family and Community Support Specialists (Manchester, NH)

(full-time - salaried, exempt)

The Family and Community Support Specialists (FCSS) will provide 1:1 support and education to families/primary caregivers of children, birth to age 8, with Serious Emotional Disturbances (SED) to improve mental health outcomes by adapting the NH Wraparound Practice Model. The FCSS will establish support groups and family education programs in Manchester.

Read full job description and apply online.

Additional Openings for Family and Community Support Specialists:

Carroll County/Conway Area
Claremont/Upper Valley
Coos County/SAU 7
Greater Nashua

Read full job descriptions and apply online.

Mental Health by the Numbers

Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness each year. It's important to measure how common mental illness is, so we can understand its physical, social and financial impact - and so we can show that no one is alone. These numbers are also powerful tools for raising public awareness, stigma-busting and advocating for better health care.

NAMI National has launched a new series of infographics that can be viewed online.

To connect with resources & supports in the Granite State, contact NAMI New Hampshire's Info. & Resources Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (ext. 601 for general inquiries, ext. 602 to get info. for individuals 18+, ext. 603 to get info. for children/youth under 18).

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

Suicide Prevention Training in Raymond, NH

NAMI NH's Connect Suicide Prevention Program recently partnered to train more than 30 peer leaders to recognize the warning signs for suicide, and to learn where to find support and help. NAMI NH is grateful to the Raymond Coalition for Youth, Raymond High School, Exeter Hospital, and Raymond School District for the opportunity to do this important work together.

Learn about training opportunities with NAMI NH's Connect Program.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline '1-800-273-TALK (8255)'

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire's Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Family-to-Family Coming to

DERRY, PORTSMOUTH, and NASHUA!

Register Online Today

Family-to-Family is an education program that is FREE for family members, partners, and friends of individuals 18 and older, who have a mental illness.

The Family-to-Family course is taught by local, trained volunteers who have family members with a mental illness. You will learn about these illnesses and their treatments, how to improve communication with your loved one, solve problems, find the help you need, and take care of yourself.

Derry Family-to-Family Class

Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:30 pm (starting March 11th)

Contact: Nancy Hollinshead at 631-987-3063

Portsmouth Family-to-Family Class

Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:30 pm (starting March 25th)

Contact: Pam Brazeau at 603-502-6580

Nashua Family-to-Family Class

Mondays starting March 30th

Contacts: Norma MacKinley-Smith at 603-882-6771 or Pam Burns at 603-888-6219

Register for Family-to-Family

It's Your Move - Advocacy Trainings 2020

Do you want to learn how to better advocate for yourself or a loved one at the doctor's office or at school? Or how to support or argue for a cause or a policy change in your town or at the state level? Then NAMI NH's It's Your Move Advocacy Trainings 2020 are for you!

Register for FREE Advocacy Trainings

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

New GREATER MILFORD Parent & Caregiver Group

Greater Milford Parent & Caregiver Group
1st Thursday each month

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley
56 Mont Vernon Street, Milford NH

For more information: MilfordNHPCG@gmail.com

**If this is your first time attending, please contact us to confirm time and location and to let us know you are coming.

Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings

All are welcome to attend the Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings. These meetings typically take place on the 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm at NAMI New Hampshire. To learn more or to RSVP, please message Michelle Wagner .

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

Looking for Support?

.

NAMI NH Support Groups are a place to make important connections to others who:

- understand the challenges you face and the opportunities ahead

- feel the same way you do

- have had the same experiences

- will help you learn new coping skills

- will share their successes and strategies with you

Through affiliates around the state, NAMI NH offers supports groups to family members and parents who have a loved one with mental illness, as well as individuals living with mental illness.

Find a support group near you.

Family Support Groups - for family members and friends of adults with mental illness

Parent Support Groups - for parents of children/adolescents with serious emotional disorders

Peer Support - information on support centers and groups for adults with mental illness

Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOSL) - listing of support groups for adults who have lost a loved one to suicide

Click here for a newly updated schedule of SOSL Groups in NH.

NAMI NH's Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they're places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. These closed Facebook groups require an add from admins - click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don't hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Development News

Save the Date!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire's largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings start back up soon! If you're interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 72 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I'm biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Mark Your Calendar

BEDLAM: Free Film Screening

Tuesday, March 31st, 6 PM

Red River Theatres, Concord

Filmmaker and practicing psychiatrist, Ken Rosenberg visits ERs, jails, and homeless camps to examine our national mental health crisis. Rosenberg follows the poignant stories of people grappling with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other chronic psychiatric conditions, whose silence and shame often worsen the suffering.

The film will be followed by a panel discussion. Bedlam is sponsored by NAMI New Hampshire and Riverbend Community Mental Health.

Tickets are FREE, but registration is encouraged.

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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May is Mental Health Month

.

During May, NAMI NH joins the national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Each year we fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.

Here are some of the places you''ll (virtually) see NAMI NH, and our partners, during this Mental Health Month (keep reading for details):

May 20th - Heads Up: Coping Through COVID-19 Webinar

May 20th - Resilience Documentary Screening

May 21st - Ken Norton on Facebook Live with Senator Hassan

May 27th - Ken Norton as featured panelist at Mental Health Round Table

May 28th - NAMI NH''s Children & Youth Team on Groundhog Day Anxiety & Self-Care

May 30th - NAMI NH Day of Hope & Virtual Party with a Purpose

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming virtual offerings include the Family-to-Family educational program, a new In Our Own Voice speaker series, additional offerings in the Side-by-Side Lunch & Learn series, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, and much more.

May 16, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

We hope you can join us virtually for our 2020 Annual Meeting!

Please RSVP at tinyurl.com/NAMINHAnnualMeeting.

NAMI NH members are eligible to vote on the slate of Board members. Not sure if your membership is current? Email us and we will check for you! Not yet a member? Becoming a member is easy and affordable! A household membership is $60 annually, and an individual membership is $40 each year. We thank you for your support!

Will You Help Us Rise to the Challenge?

If we raise $5,000 by May 30th, our challenge donor will match it!

Click to Donate.

(Please note CHALLENGE GIFT in comments.)

If you have questions, please contact Kristen Welch , CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through May 4th. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.-lines/

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

Public Policy Update

A Mental Health System Being Pushed to the Brink

The COVID-19 pandemic is pushing America into a mental health crisis that we aren''t prepared to address. Social isolation, financial distress, fears about health and an uncertain future are worsening symptoms for people with mental health conditions and causing new mental health challenges for many others.

We need your help in ensuring Congress takes action to address this growing crisis.

Take action now.

Facebook Live on May 21st

NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton will appear on a Facebook Live event with Senator Maggie Hassan on Thursday, May 21st at 4:00 pm.

The event will be shared on NAMI NH''s Facebook page.

Coffee with Chris

NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton appeared on a Facebook Live event with Congressman Chris Pappas on May 8th to discuss mental health in the Granite State.

Watch the video recording on NAMI NH''s Facebook page.

.

NH Legislature to Resume in Early June

The NH Legislature has currently suspended activity due to COVID-19, with plans to resume activities in early June.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track all of the mental health and suicide prevention bills we''re following this session, sign up for public policy alerts, and more. Questions? Don''t hesitate to contact us: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

.

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In the News

Ken Norton on Psychiatric Boarding and New Hampshire''s Crisis Redesign

Lawsuit Alleging Lack of Due Process for N.H. Mental Health Patients Moves Forward

John Barthelmes: Critical need for mental health services amid COVID-19

Held Without A Hearing, Imprisoned Without Being Convicted: Lawsuits Question Treatment Of Individuals With Mental Illnesses

Mental health ruling: Good call on a bad NH practice

Mental health workers say resources available for seniors who feel isolated

Flatten the Mental Health Curve by Fixing Our Broken System

A crisis mental-health hotline has seen an 891% spike in calls

Don''t underestimate the effect of the coronavirus crisis on children''s mental health

How CEOs Can Support Employee Mental Health in a Crisis

Eligibility for ACA Health Coverage Following Job Loss

Will the coronavirus be a breakout moment for virtual mental health care?

Yesterday in NH Emergency Departments...

.

18 adults (18 in EDs, 0 in correctional facilities)

.

were waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

At present, NAMI NH is working to access reporting on children potentially waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH to Appear on Dartmouth-Hitchcock Webinar

NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton will be a featured guest on the Wednesday, May 20th, 12 pm installment of Dartmouth-Hitchcock''s Heads Up: Coping through COVID-19 webinar series.

Learn more.

Virtual FREE screening of Resilience:

The Biology of Stress & the Science of Hope

Wednesday, May 20th, 4:30 pm

Click to Register.

Mental Health Round Table

May 27th, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton will be a featured panelist at the NH Community Behavioral Health Association''s Mental Health Round Table on May 27th.

Additional information coming soon...

Save the Date for a Family to Family Chat!

Thursday, May 28th, 3:30 pm

Register to join the conversation with NAMI NH''s Children & Youth Programs Team as we discuss anxiety and self-care - for kids and adults. Thank you to Parent Information Center of NH for presenting this important chat.

Click to Register.

Children''s Mental Health Awareness Week

NAMI New Hampshire''s Children & Youth Programs Team marked the recent Children''s Mental Health Awareness Week by donning green, sharing resources, and doing what they do best - supporting kids and their families.

Our team is currently assisting 354 kids, and their families, across the Granite State. Thanks to the generosity of a kind donor, NAMI NH''s Children & Youth Programs folks had the privilege of delivering personalized care packages to several families with whom we work. To learn more, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264.

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

US Senate Passes National Suicide Prevention Designation Hotline Act

This past week, the US Senate passed the National Suicide Prevention Designation Hotline Act. Sponsored by Senators Cory Gardner and Tammy Baldwin, the bill officially designates a three-digit phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Veterans Crisis Line.

Learn more from the American Association of Suicidology.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

New ONLINE Weekly Family Support Group

To register, email Deb at NAMINHVirtual@gmail.com and include:

tel. # | zip code | relationship/age of your family member/friend of primary concern

.Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire

The NAMI NH family is having a blast sharing a weekly storytime video for kids of all ages. Click below to watch the latest episodes of Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire, and hop over to our Facebook page each Friday for a new story. You can watch all episodes anytime on our YouTube playlist.

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

.NAMI NH Webinar Highlight:

Effective Crisis Planning: What Families Need to Know

A step-by-step guide for people with loved ones with mental illness to create a crisis plan. With details of what to include in the plan and which actions to take, this webinar offers a template for those in need.

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

NIMH Free Coloring & Activity Book

The National Institute of Mental Health offers a free downloadable coloring and activity book for kids ages 8-12: Get Excited About the Brain!

Did you know the human brain generates enough electricity to power a small lightbulb?

This free, printable coloring and activity book for children ages 8-12 features exciting facts about the human brain and mental health.

Download and print the PDF version today.

Telehealth for Special Populations during COVID-19 & Beyond

Learn more: unh.projectecho@unh.edu

NAMICon Goes Virtual for 2020

After thoughtful deliberation, NAMI National has made the difficult decision to transition NAMICon 2020 from an in-person meeting to a virtual experience. As you are aware, risks associated with large-scale live events this year remain unknown, and we are committed to the health and safety of all our attendees, staff, presenters, sponsors and exhibitors. We also recognize that many people and organizations now face tough budget decisions, especially related to travel and professional development opportunities, that may make the trip to Atlanta less feasible.

Learn more.

Development News

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings are underway! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

Stay tuned for more information about Party with a Purpose: A Day of Hope! Thank you to Janssen and AmeriHealth Caritas for their generous support of this event. To learn more about our new virtual sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

Make an Impact

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Checks for individuals: If you had an income of less than $75K last year, you will receive a check of $1,200. Individuals who earned between $75K and $100K will also receive a check on a sliding scale based on their incomes. If you have a bank account on file with the IRS, you likely received a direct deposit in mid-April. Otherwise, the IRS will begin mailing checks in early May.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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NAMI NH ENews | August 17, 2020

Register Today!

Listen Up to Win!

Contest time! Register for NAMIWalks NH Your Way by 8/28 at midnight and be entered to win this pair of AirPods. Participants who have raised $25+ will have an additional entry. All previous registrants are eligible for this contest.

Register now at www.NAMIWalksNH.org. We know the collective mental health needs of individuals, families, and our communities are great and will continue to grow in the coming months. Our programs and advocacy are needed now more than ever. In the wake of the pandemic, the support services, education programs, suicide prevention trainings, and advocacy provided by NAMI NH will be essential for Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. You can help by joining us as a virtual walker, fundraising for NAMI NH, and raising awareness of mental health and suicide prevention.

Thank you to our generous NAMIWalks NH Your Way sponsors!

Click here for our Exclusive Sponsorship Opportunities and click here for our 2020 Sponsorship Benefits.

Questions? Contact Kristen Welch.

GOLD SPONSORS

Alkermes

General Federation of Women''s Clubs - NH (FACE MASK SPONSOR)

Harvard Pilgrim Health Care (FACE MASK SPONSOR)

Palmer Gas & Oil/Lamprey Energy

SILVER SPONSORS

Cross Insurance

St. Mary''s Bank (DOG COSTUME CONTEST SPONSOR)

NH Community Behavioral Health Association

START/FINISH LINE SPONSOR

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

BRONZE SPONSORS

Sam''s Club #6386 (Concord)

WestBridge

Seacoast Mental Health Center (DAY OF HOPE AUCTION SPONSOR)

New Hampshire Hospital Association/Foundation for Healthy Communities

NH Healthy Families

Well Sense Health Plan

SUPPORTER SPONSORS

AmeriHealth Caritas

Walmart #1753 (Derry)

Walmart #6352 (Hudson)

Walmart #2130 (Portsmouth)

Walmart #2057 (Rindge)

Riverbend Community Mental Health

KILOMETER SPONSORS

Edward Jones - Goffstown

In Honor of the NH State Police - Major (Ret.) Russell Conte

Manchester Comprehensive Treatment Center

NFI North

MEDIA SPONSORS

iHeart Media NH

CG Studios

OUTFRONT Media

Public Policy Update

Listening Session: August 25th

Are you passionate about strengthening and supporting the children''s behavioral health system in NH? We want to hear from you! Join us on August 25th at 6 pm and let us know what policies you would like us to address in the coming year.

RSVP here: https://bit.ly/3fN3Mb4

NH Hospital Update on Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing (PATH)

The Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing (PATH) unit is slated to open in September with 16 beds:

Ballot by Mail

Want to #Vote4MentalHealth this fall but have health conditions or concerns about in-person voting? This easy-to-follow, nonpartisan video takes NH residents through the steps to request a ballot by mail for both primary (9/8) & general (11/3) elections.

HB 687 Vetoed

NAMI NH was disappointed by the veto of HB 687, a bill we strongly supported as a mechanism to help prevent suicide.

Learn more about the value of extreme risk protection orders from NAMI NH Exec. Dir. Ken Norton''s testimony on HB 687.

Help us make sure mental health counts!

Participate in the 2020 census so our community gets the resources it needs to support people with mental illness. Visit www.nami.org/census to learn more.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track bills, sign up for public policy alerts, and more.

For more information, please contact: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

NH Medicaid Care Management Program

Annual Open Enrollment: Aug. 1st - 31st

For Medicaid Managed Care plan members:

Open enrollment is August 1 through August 31, 2020.
If a member chooses to change Health Plans during open enrollment, coverage by the new Plan is effective September 1, 2020.
If a member chooses to stay with current Health Plan, no action is needed during open enrollment and coverage will continue with the current Plan.
There are three Health Plans to choose from - AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire, NH Healthy Families, and Well Sense Health Plan.

Click here to learn more.

If Medicaid Managed Care plan members have questions or would like more information, contact the Medicaid Service Center (NH Only) at 1-888-901-4999 (TDD Access: 1-800-735-2964), Monday through Friday, 8:00 to 4:00 p.m. ET.

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

23 children and 46 adults (42 in EDs, 4 in correctional facilities) are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI NH can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Learn more.

NAMI NH is very concerned by the rising number of individuals in mental health crisis being boarded in Emergency Departments while waiting for inpatient beds. We have been working with hospitals, mental health centers/providers, and state leaders to better understand the situation and to identify short- and long-term solutions.

COVID-19 has dramatically slowed the ability of hospitals to discharge individuals needing residential placements – especially youth. Locating appropriate housing for adults has also been challenging.

The NH Department of Health and Human Services is on track to open the Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing (PATH) program with 16 beds in September 2020, with an additional 25 beds added by June 2021.

If folks are experiencing anxiety, depression, or signs of other mental health conditions, it’s important to seek help now – from a primary care provider, local mental health center, or other provider. Please don’t wait until the situation escalates into a crisis.

NAMI NH will continue to post ED boarding data via social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will share additional information about this situation as it becomes available.

Find your local community mental health center:

https://www.naminh.org/find-support/mental-health-centers/

To connect with (non-crisis) resources & support in the Granite State, contact NAMI New Hampshire''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

For 24/7 crisis support, visit: https://www.naminh.org/resources-2/crisis-lines/

To learn about resources, supports, FAQs, alternatives, rights and what to expect in the ED, visit: http://www.naminh.org/find-support/erwait/

NAMI NH shares ED boarding posts to our social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the most recently available data.

NAMI NH continues to make ED boarding a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In The News

Pandemic helps, then hurts psychiatric boarding crisis in NH

(Associated Press)

CDC: One quarter of young adults contemplated suicide during pandemic

(Politico)

State Child Advocate: Schools Need Social Workers More Than Police

(InDepth NH)

We Must Change How Our Criminal Justice System Treats People with Mental Illness

(Time)

Pandemic’s effect on already rising suicide rates heightens worry

(Roll Call)

Kids'' mental health can struggle during online school. Here''s how teachers are planning ahead.

(USA Today)

We are failing with COVID, let''s not fail on mental health

(The Hill)

Thoughts Of Suicide, Other Mental Health Struggles Still High For LGBTQ Youth

(National Public Radio)

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the NH Department of Health & Human Services, and Governor Sununu, NAMI NH is extending the suspension of all in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings through August 31, 2020.

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming virtual offerings include a Family-to-Family course (starting in September), monthly webinar series on First Episode Psychosis/Early Serious Mental Illness, additional offerings in the Side-by-Side Lunch & Learn series, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, a roundtable discussion on older adult mental health, and much more.

Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone.

Help is available 24/7:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Development News

Thank You, July Facebook Fundraisers!

Thank you to the many generous folks who hosted Facebook Fundraisers for NAMI New Hampshire in July. You raised an astounding $3,169! Because of you, and the kindness of those who gave in your honor, Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide will continue to receive help and hope.

It’s easy to get in on the Facebook fundraising fun – and, as an added bonus, there are no fees from Facebook to either the donor or to NAMI NH from these fundraisers! If you have questions or need guidance, please contact us at development@NAMINH.org.

Thank you for sharing your Facebook fundraiser contributions with NAMI NH and those we serve. We are honored to do this work alongside you and are grateful for your steadfast support.

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

Donate

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Resources

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire

Storytime with NAMI NH is back from vacation! Be sure to tune in weekly for new episodes.

August stories are focused on BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color) Mental Health.

NAMI NH''s BIPOC Mental Health Resources webpage is curated in support of community members who are Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color – and to forward the cause of anti-racism.

OnwardNH.org is home to a wealth of information, videos, resources, and personal stories about first episode psychosis (FEP) and early serious mental illness (ESMI) in the Granite State - from the perspectives of individuals, family members, educators, and practitioners. The website now also features an Education page, where you can access videos from the FEP webinar series, including those highlighted below.

Understanding and Supporting Individuals Experiencing a First Episode of Psychosis and Their Loved Ones — Ideas for Clinicians and Researchers

Dr. Shirley Glynn, PhD, UCLA

NH FEP Series #2 – July 16, 2020

Understanding & Supporting Individuals Experiencing a First Episode of Psychosis & Their Loved Ones

Identifying First Episode Psychosis: A Critical Moment

Douglas N. Noordsy, MD, Stanford University

NH FEP Series #1 – June 18, 2020

Identifying First Episode Psychosis - A Critical Moment

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through August 31st. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

Mark Your Calendar

Webinar Series from American Public Health Association

APHA is hosting a webinar series to give an in-depth look at racism as a driving force of the social determinants of health and equity. The series will explore efforts to address systems, policies and practices designed to limit and shape opportunities for people of color. Presenters will highlight collective and individual actions we can take to advance racial equity and justice.

Learn more & register.

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

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NAMI NH ENews | October 31, 2020

View the Day of Hope Photo Album

We Did It!

Together, we made NAMIWalks NH Your Way a success.

We united across social media on October 10th, sharing our photos and telling our stories to raise awareness and inspire hope.

As of today, we have raised more than $165,000 with 1,288 participants and a record-breaking 145 teams. We are on track to break last year’s record-breaking Walk – and we know we can do it, because fundraising won’t end until November 30^th!

You can continue to donate by clicking here.

NAMIWalks NH Your Way was a success because of you. We are grateful to our amazing participants, fabulous teams, and generous donors, sponsors, and supporters for making this virtual event special.

2020 has been an incredibly difficult year with unimaginable challenges, but it gives us great joy and a whole lot of hope to see the success of NAMIWalks NH Your Way in the midst of all the chaos. A pandemic might have kept us from gathering in Concord earlier this month, but together we brought hope and awareness to those who need it most. At the end of the day, that is what the NAMI NH family does best. We are so happy you are part of it. Thank you.

We''re Bringing Some Just Desserts to NAMIWalks NH Your Way!

Post-Walk Pie Throwing returns on November 18^that 1:00 PM – with a surprise twist you won’t want to miss. This year, YOU can help decide who gets pied! Will it be our fearless leader, Ken Norton? Or our esteemed Board Chair, Major Russ Conte? Our donors have the final say (and, the donor with the largest gift gets the pie throwing honors).

You can give to the pie funds here at https://tinyurl.com/APieforKen or https://tinyurl.com/APieforRuss.

Join in the fun or spread the word – and let’s continue to smash (no pie pun intended) our fundraising goal!

Public Policy Update

#Vote4MentalHealth

Voters routinely list issues like health care, the economy, education and housing as key issues when they go to the ballot box. But do you know how these issues impact people with mental health conditions?

Learn more.

National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 Signed into Law

October 17, 2020 marked a historic day for suicide prevention and mental health when President Trump signed S.2661 the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 into law. The Federal Communications Committee had recommended/approved this plan earlier this summer. The bill establishes a national three digit 9-8-8 suicide prevention/mental health hotline with an anticipated start date of July 2022.

For the past several years, NAMI NH Executive Director Ken Norton has been actively involved in the national workgroup of advocates which led efforts for the creation and passage of this important legislation. He also serves on the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Steering Committee, which will play a critical role over the next two years in operationalizing this new service.

Regarding passage of the bill, Ken stated, “We are grateful to the many people who contacted members of congress and shared their personal stories and/or advocated for this bill. Providing individuals and families with an alternative to calling 911 or going to the emergency department will dovetail with key recommendations of New Hampshire’s 10-Year Mental Health Plan, especially efforts to establish statewide mobile crisis response, and will provide immediate life-saving help, support and hope to people in a mental health crisis.”

NAMI New Hampshire looks forward to collaborating with our partners in the Granite State to assist with this transition. Please note that 988 will not be operational for at least the next 2 years and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number will continue to be 1-800-273-8255 and will continue to be answered locally by Headrest in Lebanon, NH.

9-8-8 is not yet active, but help is available now if you or somebody you know is in mental health crisis. Text “NAMI” to 741741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

NAMI NH is Nonpartisan

Like mental illness and suicide, NAMI New Hampshire is nonpartisan. We support policies that help people with mental health conditions and their families, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders on shared goals to improve the lives of individuals affected by mental illness and suicide.

Yesterday in NH Emergency Departments...

25 children and 28 adults (24 in EDs, 4 in correctional facilities) were waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI NH can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Learn more.

NAMI NH is very concerned by the rising number of individuals in mental health crisis being boarded while waiting for inpatient beds. We have been working with hospitals, mental health centers/providers, state leaders, and our congressional delegation to better understand the situation and to identify short- and long-term solutions.

COVID-19 has dramatically slowed the ability of hospitals to discharge individuals needing residential placements – especially youth. Locating appropriate housing for adults has also been challenging.

The NH Department of Health and Human Services opened the Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing (PATH) program with 16 beds in September 2020, and is working on a plan to increase beds at NH Hospital by June 2021.

If folks are experiencing anxiety, depression, or signs of other mental health conditions, it’s important to seek help now – from a primary care provider, local mental health center, or other provider. Please don’t wait until the situation escalates into a crisis.

NAMI NH will continue to post ED boarding data via social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will share additional information about this situation as it becomes available.

Find your local community mental health center:

https://www.naminh.org/find-support/mental-health-centers/

To connect with (non-crisis) resources & support in the Granite State, contact NAMI New Hampshire''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

For 24/7 crisis support, visit: https://www.naminh.org/resources-2/crisis-lines/

To learn about resources, supports, FAQs, alternatives, rights and what to expect in the ED, visit: http://www.naminh.org/find-support/erwait/

NAMI NH shares ED boarding posts to our social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the most recently available data.

NAMI NH continues to make ED boarding a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In The News

Elliot Hospital adds more beds for patients with mental health issues

(WMUR)

Long-awaited contract for psychiatric crisis resources released

(Concord Monitor)

Mental Health Resources for Black Americans

(Everyday Health)

Soon (estimated July 2022), you can call 988 in a mental health crisis

(The Hill)

These mental health crises ended in fatal police encounters. Now, some communities are trying a new approach.

(CNN)

Mental Illnesses May Soon Be the Most Common Pre-Existing Conditions

(Kaiser Family Foundation)

What mental health professionals have learned six months into pandemic care

(Popular Science)

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Side by Side: Free Webinar Series for Older Adults, Their Families, and Caregivers

Register now for the session(s) you plan to attend!

Sponsored by Dartmouth-Hitchcock, this free webinar series for older adults, their families, and caregivers will be presented by NAMI New Hampshire''s Bernie Seifert:

Bernie Seifert earned her MSW degree with a sub-concentration in Aging from Boston University and has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving older adults and their families in New Hampshire since the late 1980s. She is the Director of Adult Programs at NAMI New Hampshire (National Alliance on Mental Illness NH). Over the past several years, Bernie has conducted numerous trainings on topics for varied audiences, including programs focusing on care giving, dementia, mental health and suicide prevention. She is also the Geriatric Mental Health Training Coordinator at the Northern New England Geriatric Education Center at the Dartmouth Centers on Health and Aging in Lebanon, NH. Her current affiliations include the Board of Directors for the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) (term 2019-21), Board of Directors of the NH Chapter of NASW (2007-17, President 2015-17), NH Coalition on Substance Abuse, Mental Health & Aging (Chairperson), NH Coalition on Caring, and the NH Attorney General’s Elderly and Vulnerable Adult Fatality Review Committee.

Watch Side by Side Webinars

If you missed a webinar in the Side by Side series, hop over to NAMI NH''s YouTube page to watch the recording. The below featured videos are Depression and Older Adults and Understanding Dementia.

Side by Side: Depression and Older Adults

Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the NH Department of Health & Human Services, and Governor Sununu, NAMI NH is extending the suspension of all in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings through December 31, 2020.

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming FREE virtual offerings include a Side by Side webinar series, Family-to-Family course, In Our Own Voice training, monthly webinar series on First Episode Psychosis/Early Serious Mental Illness, suicide prevention virtual training for the community, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, and much more.

Share Your Story to Crush Stigma!

Has mental illness affected you or your family and friends? Please consider sharing your story for our anti-stigma campaign! Contact Michelle Wagner for more information.

Thanks for Sharing Your Stories!

We are so very grateful to all of the folks who have already stepped up to crush stigma by sharing their stories! For a sneak peek, click on the video and images below. Also, be sure to check 603Stories.org regularly as we continue to add new content.

Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone.

Help is available 24/7:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Development News

Thank You to Our September Facebook Fundraising Folks!

Thank you to the many generous folks who hosted Facebook Fundraisers for NAMI NH in September. You raised an astounding $2,375! Because of you, and the kindness of those who gave in your honor, Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide will continue to receive help and hope.

It’s easy to get in on the Facebook fundraising fun – and, as an added bonus, there are no fees from Facebook to either the donor or to NAMI NH from these fundraisers! If you have questions or need guidance, please contact us at development@NAMINH.org.

Thank you for sharing your Facebook fundraiser contributions with NAMI NH and those we serve. We are honored to do this work alongside you and are grateful for your steadfast support.

More from NAMIWalks NH - A Day of Hope...

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

Donate

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Resources

NH System of Care

The NH System of Care (NH SOC) for children’s behavioral health has (4) foundational values: youth- & family-driven, community-based, culturally & linguistically competent, and trauma-informed.

Over the coming months, we''ll share ways to expand and strengthen behavioral health supports for children.

NAMI NH''s Children & Youth Programs Team supports kids, and their families, across the Granite State. To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Family and Friends of Loved Ones Experiencing Early Psychosis

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

OnwardNH.org is home to a wealth of information, videos, resources, and personal stories about first episode psychosis (FEP) and early serious mental illness (ESMI) in the Granite State - from the perspectives of individuals, family members, educators, and practitioners. The website now also features an Education page, where you can access webinar videos, including those highlighted below.

Partnering for Hope: First Episode Psychosis Services in New Hampshire

Cynthia Whitaker, PsyD, MLADC (Interim CEO, Greater Nashua Mental Health); Paul Lassins, LICSW (Coordinator of HOPE Program at Greater Nashua Mental Health); Theo Barrs, CRSW (Alumni Coordinator at WestBridge); Michelle Wagner (Community Educator and Outreach Coordinator at NAMI NH)

NAMI NH Annual Conference – July 29, 2020

2020 NAMI NH Annual Conference - Partnering for Hope: First Episode Psychosis Services in NH

Creating a Learning Healthcare System in Early Psychosis: Challenges and Opportunities

Lisa Dixon, M.D., M.P.H.

NH FEP Series #4 – September 10, 2020

Creating a Learning Healthcare System in Early Psychosis: Challenges and Opportunities - Sept. 2020

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through December 31st. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

Mark Your Calendar

In Case You Missed It - This Is My Brave

Kudos to Riverbend Community Mental Health and the talented storytellers who pulled off a truly wonderful event earlier this month! Click the video below to watch This Is My Brave: Stories from Home (New Hampshire).

NAMI NH Leader Quarterly Zoom

Save the Date: Thursday, December 17, 5:30 PM

All program leaders are invited to join us on December 17th, including family support, connection support, parent support group leaders and Family-to-Family and Peer-to-Peer teachers. Keep an eye on your inboxes for the official invitation, but in the meantime, please save the date!

Also, if you have agenda ideas - please contact Liz Hodgkins at lhodgkins@NAMINH.org with thoughts on what you''d like to discuss.

Webinar Series from American Public Health Association

APHA is hosting a webinar series to give an in-depth look at racism as a driving force of the social determinants of health and equity. The series will explore efforts to address systems, policies and practices designed to limit and shape opportunities for people of color. Presenters will highlight collective and individual actions we can take to advance racial equity and justice.

Learn more & register.

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

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NAMI NH ENews | August 31, 2020

Suicide Prevention Awareness Week

September 6 - 12, 2020

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to share resources and stories in an effort to shed light on this highly taboo and stigmatized topic. We use this month to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise awareness and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to treatment services. It is also important to ensure that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention.

NAMI New Hampshire and our Connect Suicide Prevention Program are here to help.

Click for 24/7 crisis support.

Along with our partners on the NH Suicide Prevention Council, NAMI NH will take part in virtual events and information sharing during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Week (September 6 - 12), including a virtual press conference on September 10th. Stay tuned to NAMI NH''s social media for more details.

GLS New Hampshire Nexus Project 2.0

The GLS NHNP 2.0 is a cross-systems, collaborative approach to reduce suicide incidents among youth by improving pathways to care and offering comprehensive training to provide youth-serving organizations with the resources to identify, screen, refer, and treat at-risk youth. The project will focus on youth and young adults ages 10-24 in the Capital, Carroll County, and North Country Regional Public Health Networks of New Hampshire.

In partnership with Northern Human Services and Riverbend Community Mental Health we have added a Care Liaison position in each location that will facilitate pathways to care for high-risk youth/young adults. These care liaisons will help strengthen existing partnerships with local organizations within their public health networks, to improve information sharing and problem solving, and build support networks for those most at risk. These positions serve to work with young people during times of crisis and health care transitions, which are especially times that are high for suicide risk.

To learn more about the GLS NHNP 2.0 contact: Kelley Caravona at kcaravona@naminh.org.

Sara Martin

Northern Human Services

Sara Martin is the Care Liaison at Northern Human Services. She has been with NHS for the last eight years. Sara began her career with NHS as a residential advisor in their residential housing program. She transitioned into a Children’s Functional Support Specialist position and worked to become a Child and Family Case Manager, where she has focused her efforts for the last four years. Additionally, she has served as a Paraeducator and after school monitor for Lyndon Town School. Sara attended Lyndon State College in Vermont where she earned a Bachelor of Science in human services. Sara enjoys spending time with her family visiting Story Land and going camping.

Acacia (Ace) McDowell

Riverbend Community Mental Health

Acacia (Ace) McDowell is the Care Liaison at Riverbend Community Mental Health. She has been working for Riverbend Mobile Crisis for the past three years, specializing in child assessments. Ace is currently working to obtain her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. She has worked with children and adolescents as a direct care counselor in a group home, at which time she moved on to become a therapeutic mentor in Massachusetts. When Ace is not working, she enjoys painting and spending time with friends, family, and her cat.

Register Today!

Team Captains, this contest is for YOU!

Have 5+ team members registered for NAMIWalks NH Your Way by 9/12 at midnight and be entered to win two NAMI New Hampshire Yeti tumblers. Keep your favorite, use the second tumbler to incentivize your team!

Register now at www.NAMIWalksNH.org. We know the collective mental health needs of individuals, families, and our communities are great and will continue to grow in the coming months. Our programs and advocacy are needed now more than ever. In the wake of the pandemic, the support services, education programs, suicide prevention trainings, and advocacy provided by NAMI NH will be essential for Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. You can help by joining us as a virtual walker, fundraising for NAMI NH, and raising awareness of mental health and suicide.

Thank you to our generous NAMIWalks NH Your Way sponsors!

Click here for our Exclusive Sponsorship Opportunities and click here for our 2020 Sponsorship Benefits.

Questions? Contact Kristen Welch.

GOLD SPONSORS

Alkermes

General Federation of Women''s Clubs - NH (FACE MASK SPONSOR)

Harvard Pilgrim Health Care (FACE MASK SPONSOR)

Palmer Gas & Oil/Lamprey Energy

SILVER SPONSORS

St. Mary''s Bank (DOG COSTUME CONTEST SPONSOR)

Cross Insurance

NH Community Behavioral Health Association

START/FINISH LINE SPONSOR

Merrimack County Savings Bank (KIDZONE SPONSOR)

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

BRONZE SPONSORS

Seacoast Mental Health Center (DAY OF HOPE AUCTION SPONSOR)

Janssen

Lakes Region Mental Health Center

NH Healthy Families

New Hampshire Hospital Association/Foundation for Healthy Communities

Northeast Delta Dental

Sam''s Club #6386 (Concord)

Well Sense Health Plan

WestBridge

SUPPORTER SPONSORS

AmeriHealth Caritas

Riverbend Community Mental Health

Walmart #1753 (Derry)

Walmart #6352 (Hudson)

Walmart #2130 (Portsmouth)

Walmart #2057 (Rindge)

KILOMETER SPONSORS

Edward Jones - Goffstown

Greater Nashua Mental Health Center

In Honor of the NH State Police - Major (Ret.) Russell Conte

Manchester Comprehensive Treatment Center

The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester

NFI North

Walmart #1762 (Seabrook)

MEDIA SPONSORS

iHeart Media NH

CG Studios

OUTFRONT Media

IN-KIND SPONSORS

Celebrations by Heidi

Public Policy Update

Help us make sure mental health counts!

Participate in the 2020 census so our community gets the resources it needs to support people with mental illness. Visit www.nami.org/census to learn more.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track bills, sign up for public policy alerts, and more.

For more information, please contact: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

Ballot by Mail

Want to #Vote4MentalHealth this fall but have health conditions or concerns about in-person voting? This easy-to-follow, nonpartisan video takes NH residents through the steps to request a ballot by mail for both primary (9/8) & general (11/3) elections.

NAMI NH is Nonpartisan

Like mental illness and suicide, NAMI New Hampshire is nonpartisan. We support policies that help people with mental health conditions and their families, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders on shared goals to improve the lives of individuals affected by mental illness and suicide.

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

8 children and 58 adults (58 in EDs, 0 in correctional facilities) are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI NH can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Learn more.

NAMI NH is very concerned by the rising number of individuals in mental health crisis being boarded while waiting for inpatient beds. We have been working with hospitals, mental health centers/providers, state leaders, and our congressional delegation to better understand the situation and to identify short- and long-term solutions.

COVID-19 has dramatically slowed the ability of hospitals to discharge individuals needing residential placements – especially youth. Locating appropriate housing for adults has also been challenging.

The NH Department of Health and Human Services is on track to open the Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing (PATH) program with 16 beds in September 2020, and is working on a plan to increase beds at NH Hospital by June 2021.

If folks are experiencing anxiety, depression, or signs of other mental health conditions, it’s important to seek help now – from a primary care provider, local mental health center, or other provider. Please don’t wait until the situation escalates into a crisis.

NAMI NH will continue to post ED boarding data via social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will share additional information about this situation as it becomes available.

Find your local community mental health center:

https://www.naminh.org/find-support/mental-health-centers/

To connect with (non-crisis) resources & support in the Granite State, contact NAMI New Hampshire''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

For 24/7 crisis support, visit: https://www.naminh.org/resources-2/crisis-lines/

To learn about resources, supports, FAQs, alternatives, rights and what to expect in the ED, visit: http://www.naminh.org/find-support/erwait/

NAMI NH shares ED boarding posts to our social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the most recently available data.

NAMI NH continues to make ED boarding a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In The News

Dr. Ken Duckworth on Mental Health in the Time of Coronavirus

(WGBH)

Mental health providers concerned about kids during pandemic

(Associated Press)

Sen. Maggie Hassan holds virtual discussion to highlight mental health impacts of pandemic

(WMUR)

Mental-health leaders: We must end pandemic of racism

(Orlando Sentinel)

Long after a Covid-19 infection, mental and neurological effects smolder

(Stat News)

Suicide prevention has a systemic racism problem. Here’s how to fix it.

(Mashable)

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the NH Department of Health & Human Services, and Governor Sununu, NAMI NH is extending the suspension of all in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings through August 31, 2020.

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming virtual offerings include a Family-to-Family course (starting in September), monthly webinar series on First Episode Psychosis/Early Serious Mental Illness, additional offerings in the Side-by-Side Lunch & Learn series, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, and much more.

Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone.

Help is available 24/7:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Development News

Garden in Support of NAMI NH!

NAMI NH is pleased to partner with Bloomin'' Bucks with Brent and Becky''s to help our supporters beautify their homes while giving back! Order your bulbs, plants, perennials, and anything else you might need for your garden at https://www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com/, choose NAMI NH as the designated charity, and we''ll receive 25% of your purchase!

Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening while supporting NAMI NH! Check out this article to learn how gardening can help your mental health: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/think-act-be/201906/10-mental-health-benefits-gardening.

Hannaford in Concord, NH Donating September Community Bag Proceeds to NAMI NH!

For the month of September, NAMI New Hampshire will receive a $1 donation from each purchase of the $2.50 reusable Community Bag at the Hannaford store located at 73 Fort Eddy Road, Concord NH. We are very grateful to Hannaford for including NAMI NH in this terrific charitable program!

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

Donate

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Resources

How Schools Can Support Youth Mental Health

Why I Decided to Be Open with My Students About My Mental Illness

3 Types of School Supports to Help Students with Mental Health Conditions

To All the Professors and Teachers of Those with Invisible Illnesses

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire

Storytime with NAMI NH is back from vacation! Be sure to tune in for upcoming episodes.

August stories are focused on BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color) Mental Health.

NAMI NH''s BIPOC Mental Health Resources webpage is curated in support of community members who are Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color – and to forward the cause of anti-racism.

OnwardNH.org is home to a wealth of information, videos, resources, and personal stories about first episode psychosis (FEP) and early serious mental illness (ESMI) in the Granite State - from the perspectives of individuals, family members, educators, and practitioners. The website now also features an Education page, where you can access videos from the FEP webinar series, including those highlighted below.

The Journey to Use Meds Optimally to Support Recovery

Patricia E. Deegan PhD

NH FEP Series #3 – August 20, 2020

The Journey to Use Meds Optimally to Support Recovery - August 20, 2020

Understanding and Supporting Individuals Experiencing a First Episode of Psychosis and Their Loved Ones — Ideas for Clinicians and Researchers

Dr. Shirley Glynn, PhD, UCLA

NH FEP Series #2 – July 16, 2020

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through August 31st. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

Mark Your Calendar

Tuesday, September 1st, 7-9 PM

The Exchange Live From Home: COVID-19, Self-Care & Mental Health

FREE event - registration REQUIRED:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-exchange-live-from-home-mental-health-covid-19-tickets-112156970518

Look at how the pandemic is affecting our mental health & daily lives. Mental health experts will offer up coping strategies & tips.

Webinar Series from American Public Health Association

APHA is hosting a webinar series to give an in-depth look at racism as a driving force of the social determinants of health and equity. The series will explore efforts to address systems, policies and practices designed to limit and shape opportunities for people of color. Presenters will highlight collective and individual actions we can take to advance racial equity and justice.

Learn more & register.

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

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Give The Gift of Hope

Unprecedented times. A difficult moment in history. Our new normal. These phrases were not in our daily vocabulary a mere nine months ago.

The past year has likely challenged and changed you. It has, without a doubt, changed NAMI New Hampshire. It has required us to be more agile and adapt to new and innovative ways of providing support, education, and advocacy to over 33,000 Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide — services we know are going to be even more essential as mental health needs surge.

The one constant in this rapidly changing world is you —

our NAMI New Hampshire Family.

Despite the challenges of 2020, your support keeps us going. Because of you, we have accomplished much over the past few months, allowing us to continue providing the supports and services desperately needed by so many Granite Staters.

As 2020 draws to a close, we have seen that even in the darkest times hope abounds. Indeed, we found that families with children were able to more readily access family peer support and education; our presentations had significantly increased attendance; we had octogenarian support group participants who were amazed by the wonders of meeting via Zoom; and we had individuals who previously were not able to access programs and now were able to do so only because they were offered virtually.

The long-term repercussions will persist well after the end of the pandemic, as our already strained mental health system struggles to ensure access to adequate and timely services. Your gift to NAMI NH ensures all people in need of support, education, and advocacy continue to receive help today and in the future.

Despite the fact that this has been, and continues to be, a challenging time for us all, our work continues and our NAMI NH Family continues to hold onto hope for themselves and for each other. We are reminded of how grateful we are to you and for you. Thank you for your steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. Together, we will navigate these uncharted waters and uncertain times.

We wish you health and peace this holiday season.

Give The Gift of Hope

There are many ways to give to NAMI New Hampshire.

Please contact us to discuss.

Feeling stressed or anxious about COVID-19? Your feelings are valid, and you are not alone. If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally – help is available 24/7.

Click Here for Resources

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NAMI NH ENews | July 20, 2020

July is Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental health conditions do not discriminate based on race, color, gender or identity.

Anyone can experience the challenges of mental illness regardless of their background. However, background and identity can make access to mental health treatment much more difficult. National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 2008 to start changing this.

Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition.

Taking on the challenges of mental health conditions, health coverage and the stigma of mental illness requires all of us. In many communities, these problems are increased by less access to care, cultural stigma and lower quality care.

NAMI’s You Are Not Alone campaign features the lived experience of people affected by mental illness to fight stigma, inspire others and educate the broader public. Now more than ever, the mental health community must come together and show that no one is ever really alone. NAMI supports all diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives, reminding everyone that you are not alone.

America’s entire mental health system needs improvement, including when it comes to serving marginalized communities. Learn more about how you can get involved with BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month.

Visit NAMI NH''s BIPOC Mental Health Resources webpage – curated in support of community members who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color – and to forward the cause of anti-racism.

FREE NAMI NH Annual Conference Learning Series Starts on July 23rd!

Join us starting Thursday, July 23rd at 6 PM as Ken Norton, NAMI NH Executive Director, kicks off the Annual Conference Learning Series. Opening remarks will be followed by the keynote presentation delivered by Lynda Michaud Cutrell. Lynda, a Boston area artist, will share more about The 99 Faces Project: Portraits Without Labels. Hear about the 99 striking photographs of individuals with serious mental illnesses and those who love them and the artist’s goal to normalize mental health through a series of powerful images.

Register Today

Thank you to the following organizations for their generous support:

Keynote Sponsor

Closing Sponsor

Workshop Sponsor

NFI North

Supporter

NH Community Behavioral Health Association

Register for Kick Off

Join us Aug. 5th, 12-1 PM to (virtually) kick off 2020 NAMIWalks NH Your Way!

Zoom link will be provided by 5:00 PM the day before the event.

Learn more about NAMIWalks NH Your Way and how you and your team can walk virtually anywhere, any way! Register before the Kick Off so you are ready to go!
Take away some terrific fundraising tips and tricks.
Get a sneak peek at the 2020 incentive items (spoiler alert - we have some great new options this year).
Hear how your favorite elements of NAMIWalks NH are going virtual (don''t worry, we are having the Dog Costume Contest and some Kid''s Zone fun).
Play some games and have some laughs!
Bring your questions and we''ll bring the answers.

The first 50 Team Captains to register for the Kick Off by July 24th will receive an EXCLUSIVE swag bag with a delicious treat and some surprises, and all attendees will receive a special gift.

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

Click here for our Exclusive Sponsorship Opportunities and click here for our 2020 Sponsorship Benefits.

Questions? Contact Kristen Welch.

Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the NH Department of Health & Human Services, and Governor Sununu, NAMI NH is extending the suspension of all in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings through July 31, 2020.

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming virtual offerings include a Family-to-Family course, webinar series on First Episode Psychosis/Early Serious Mental Illness, additional offerings in the Side-by-Side Lunch & Learn series, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, a roundtable discussion on older adult mental health, and much more.

Public Policy Update

NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton has been named to the Commission on Law Enforcement Accountability, Community, and Transparency. Learn more.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track bills, sign up for public policy alerts, and more.

For more information, please contact: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

An Open Letter In Response To The President''s Executive Order On Safe Policing For Safe Communities

Last week, NAMI, in partnership with CIT International and other national organizations working in mental health and policing, released an open letter responding to President Trump’s June 16th executive order, “Safe Policing for Safe Communities.” The order is the Administration’s response to the recent national outcry for police reform, following the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers. Addressing several areas of policing, the order also includes a focus on providing resources to law enforcement agencies to assist with responses to mental health, substance use disorder, and homelessness.

In response, the letter stresses that the President’s action does not go far enough to reduce the role of law enforcement in communities’ crisis response, especially mental health crisis response.

Read the letter and learn more.

COVID-19 is pushing America into a mental health crisis. Social isolation, financial distress, fears about health and an uncertain future are worsening symptoms for people with mental health conditions and causing new mental health challenges for many others.

But, while need for mental health is increasing, our mental health system is struggling to meet the demand.

To ensure you, your family and friends, and all of the people you care about can access mental health care, we need your help.

Sign our petition to #Act4MentalHealth and show your support for more mental health care NOW – for every person who needs it.

Your voice makes a difference.

Yesterday in NH Emergency Departments...

12 children and 39 adults (36 in EDs, 3 in correctional facilities) were waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI NH can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Learn more.

NAMI NH is very concerned by the rising number of individuals in mental health crisis being boarded in Emergency Departments while waiting for inpatient beds. We are working to get information from hospitals, mental health centers/providers, and state leaders to better understand what exactly is happening now (i.e. is this COVID-related, are these folks new or known to the mental health system, etc.), and also working to identify short- and long-term solutions.

We know that COVID has dramatically slowed the ability of hospitals to discharge people needing residential placements (youth especially, but adults as well), or locate apartments and/or appropriate housing.

On a positive note, Concord Hospital reopened their voluntary inpatient unit last week, which had closed due to the COVID crisis. It is anticipated this will take a few days to ramp up, but the capacity of the unit is 15 people.

Additionally, Commissioner Shibinette from the NH Department of Health and Human Services has requested funding from the legislative fiscal committee to immediately refurbish the Philbrook Building on the grounds of New Hampshire Hospital, and open beds there for a step-down transitional housing program. They hope to have 16 beds operational during September 2020, with an additional 25 beds added by June 2021.

It’s important if folks are experiencing anxiety, depression, or signs of other mental health conditions, they seek help now from their primary care provider, local mental health center, or other provider, and not wait until the situation escalates into a crisis.

NAMI NH will keep you posted as we learn more about this situation.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In The News

Concord Hospital psychiatric floor reopens

(Concord Monitor)

People in mental health crises need help, not handcuffs

(Stat News)

FCC approves 988 to be 3-digit number for national suicide hotline starting in 2022

(CNN)

Trauma-informed practices necessary for police, experts say

(Concord Monitor)

Aspiring N.H. Lawyers Will No Longer Be Asked About Mental Health History

(New Hampshire Public Radio)

Suspensions, expulsions are used disproportionately to discipline N.H. students of color

(Concord Monitor)

Unpolicing mental illness

(National Public Radio)

In Hard-Hit Areas, COVID’s Ripple Effects Strain Mental Health Care Systems

(Kaiser Health News)

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Suicide Prevention

The Wonders of Technology

We are thankful for the technology that made NAMI NH''s recent Connect Postvention virtual out-of-state training possible with our friends at Ohio''s Akron Children''s Hospital.

To learn about virtual suicide prevention and postvention training offerings from NAMI NH''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program, message edemello@NAMINH.org or visit TheConnectProgram.org.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone.

Help is available 24/7:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Development News

Remembering Patti Szydlo

One of the original "NAMI Mommies," Patti Szydlo, a founding member of NAMI New Hampshire, was a fierce advocate for mental health in the Granite State. Below is an excerpt from her remarkable obituary.

"She ran the Peterborough AMI as facilitator for many years, taught NAMI Family to Family programs to educate families dealing with mental illness. She was an “on call” contact for families in crisis to provide resources and guidance...As a strong and powerful advocate for the mentally ill she was once physically removed from the office of Governor John Sununu during a meeting. Ironically, in a speaking engagement at a NAMI convention in Chicago she had the honor of introducing Governor Sununu to the audience. As always, she remained cordial and friendly."

Big Thanks to June''s Facebook Fundraisers!

Thank you to the many generous folks who hosted Facebook Fundraisers for NAMI NH in June. You raised an astounding $1,440! Because of you, and the kindness of those who gave in your honor, Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide will continue to receive help and hope.

It’s easy to get in on the Facebook fundraising fun – and, as an added bonus, there are no fees from Facebook to either the donor or to NAMI NH from these fundraisers! If you have questions or need guidance, please contact us at development@NAMINH.org.

Thank you to the kind and generous folks who chose to share their Facebook fundraiser contributions with NAMI NH. We are honored to do this work alongside you and are grateful for your steadfast support.

Like burritos?

Consider grabbing dinner from Chipotle in Concord at 265 Loudon Rd., Ste 2 on Saturday, August 8th, 4-8 pm to support Team RUOK''s fundraiser to benefit NAMIWalks NH.

Register to join us virtually on Sat. 10/10 for NAMIWalks NH Your Way: www.NAMIWalksNH.org

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

Donate

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Resources

OnwardNH.org is home to a wealth of information, videos, resources, and personal stories about first episode psychosis (FEP) and early serious mental illness (ESMI) in the Granite State - from the perspectives of individuals, family members, educators, and practitioners. The website now also features an Education page, where you can access videos from the FEP webinar series, including those highlighted below.

Understanding and Supporting Individuals Experiencing a First Episode of Psychosis and Their Loved Ones — Ideas for Clinicians and Researchers

Dr. Shirley Glynn, PhD, UCLA

NH FEP Series #2 – July 16, 2020

Identifying First Episode Psychosis: A Critical Moment

Douglas N. Noordsy, MD, Stanford University

NH FEP Series #1 – June 18, 2020

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through July 31st. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Veteran & Military Families

NAMI Homefront Online

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom. Learn more and register.

Mark Your Calendar

Webinar Series from American Public Health Association

APHA is hosting a webinar series to give an in-depth look at racism as a driving force of the social determinants of health and equity. The series will explore efforts to address systems, policies and practices designed to limit and shape opportunities for people of color. Presenters will highlight collective and individual actions we can take to advance racial equity and justice.

Learn more & register.

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

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NAMI New Hampshire Annual Conference Returns on Sat. 4/4!

The NAMI NH community personifies hope. The 2020 NAMI NH Annual Conference will demonstrate the power of hope, as we tell the stories and illuminate the experiences of individuals living with mental illness and those who love them. Join us on April 4th as we come together for hope, health, and help for all who have been impacted by mental illness and/or suicide. Together, we are the Faces of Hope. Learn more.

February 28, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

Public Policy Update

.

You''re Invited! Private State House Tour

Monday, March 9th, 4 pm

Calling all mental health and suicide prevention advocates! Please join us for a private tour of the New Hampshire State House, led by NH Senator Dan Feltes. Attendees will meet at NAMI New Hampshire, 85 North State St., Concord, then walk over to the State House together. The tour will last approximately 45 minutes, and participants are invited back to NAMI NH to participate in a portion of the Public Policy Committee Meeting.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED for this free tour.

If interested, please contact Michele Watson at mwatson@NAMINH.org.

BEDLAM: Free Film Screening

Tuesday, March 31st, 6 PM

Red River Theatres, Concord

Filmmaker and practicing psychiatrist, Ken Rosenberg visits ERs, jails, and homeless camps to examine our national mental health crisis. Rosenberg follows the poignant stories of people grappling with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other chronic psychiatric conditions, whose silence and shame often worsen the suffering.

The film will be followed by a panel discussion, moderated by NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton. Bedlam is sponsored by NAMI New Hampshire and Riverbend Community Mental Health.

Tickets are FREE, but registration is encouraged.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

.

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

Save the Date: Friday, April 24th

Evening of Unity to Benefit NAMI NH

.

Save the date of Friday, April 24th for the 1st Annual GFWC NH Evening of Unity to benefit NAMI NH. Comedy by Linda Belt and 2020 Unity Award to be awarded.

Get your tickets today!

In the News

Heather Moquin Appointed Head Of New Hampshire Hospital

Mental health: How we''ve improved and where we need to do better in 2020

Frisbie Hospital merger with HCA, Portsmouth gains AG''s approval

DHMC''s Telehealth recognized by American Hospital Association

Opinion: Even When I''m Psychotic, I''m Still Me

Meet the classical musicians inspiring people with mental illness.

Expansion of Drug Treatment Service Continues in County Jails

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

.

35 adults and

1 child

.

are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

Connect Trains-the-Trainers in FL

Congratulations to our newest group of Connect Suicide Prevention Trainers from St. Petersburg College in sunny Florida! ☀️

Learn about suicide prevention and postvention trainings from NAMI NH''s Connect Program.

Pedaling for Prevention

Mike Mariani and Devin McLaughlin are two 16 year-old students from Keene High School who are planning to complete a cross-country bicycle journey this summer to support suicide prevention. The trip will start in Yorktown, Virginia, and carry westward until they reach San Francisco, California. Mike''s brother, Nathan, died by suicide in 2018, at the young age of 16. He was a member of the KHS Class of 2020. The boys will be riding in honor of Nate as well as to inspire those who may be struggling with anxiety and depression. They hope to inspire and show that long roads can lead to beautiful destinations.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Family-to-Family Comes to Newport, NH!

Family-to-Family Coming to

DERRY, PORTSMOUTH, and NASHUA!

Register Online Today

Family-to-Family is an education program that is FREE for family members, partners, and friends of individuals 18 and older, who have a mental illness.

The Family-to-Family course is taught by local, trained volunteers who have family members with a mental illness. You will learn about these illnesses and their treatments, how to improve communication with your loved one, solve problems, find the help you need, and take care of yourself.

Derry Family-to-Family Class

Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:30 pm (starting March 11th)

Contact: Nancy Hollinshead at 631-987-3063

Portsmouth Family-to-Family Class

Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:30 pm (starting March 25th)

Contact: Pam Brazeau at 603-502-6580

Nashua Family-to-Family Class

Mondays starting March 30th

Contacts: Norma MacKinley-Smith at 603-882-6771 or Pam Burns at 603-888-6219

Register for Family-to-Family

Coming this Spring - Save the Date for Connection Facilitator Training!

It''s Your Move - Advocacy Trainings 2020

Already taken It''s Your Move (IYM) Basic 1.0 & ready to up your advocacy game?

Join us Fri. 3/6, 9 am - 3 pm at NAMI NH for IYM Advanced 2.0!

Register for FREE Advocacy Trainings

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

New GREATER MILFORD Parent & Caregiver Group

Greater Milford Parent & Caregiver Group
1st Thursday each month

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley
56 Mont Vernon Street, Milford NH

For more information: MilfordNHPCG@gmail.com

**If this is your first time attending, please contact us to confirm time and location and to let us know you are coming.

Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings

All are welcome to attend the Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings. These meetings typically take place on the 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm at NAMI New Hampshire. To learn more or to RSVP, please message Michelle Wagner .

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

Looking for Support?

.

NAMI NH Support Groups are a place to make important connections to others who:

- understand the challenges you face and the opportunities ahead

- feel the same way you do

- have had the same experiences

- will help you learn new coping skills

- will share their successes and strategies with you

Through affiliates around the state, NAMI NH offers supports groups to family members and parents who have a loved one with mental illness, as well as individuals living with mental illness.

Find a support group near you.

Family Support Groups - for family members and friends of adults with mental illness

Parent Support Groups - for parents of children/adolescents with serious emotional disorders

Peer Support - information on support centers and groups for adults with mental illness

Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOSL) - listing of support groups for adults who have lost a loved one to suicide

Click here for a newly updated schedule of SOSL Groups in NH.

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. These closed Facebook groups require an add from admins - click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Development News

Update from the Trail

"My name is Erica (Spitfire), and this year I am taking on the incredible physical challenge of hiking the 7,000 mile Great Western Loop with a team called The Push Beyond. It is our goal to raise money for nonprofit organizations that hold an importance to each hiker on the team. My organization is NAMI New Hampshire. Mental health plays a huge factor in the happiness and well being of our communities, yet many still neglect it. Mental health issues are something we cannot see, and so they often get brushed aside and invalidated, making the problem worse. In my short life, I have had countless friends of all demographics who struggle with mental health. I have worked with teenagers who have attempted suicide. I have fought with my own mind, and often felt like I didn''t deserve to be happy. Thankfully, I found thruhiking. In 2017, I hiked the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. It was the hardest thing I''d ever done, but it was also the most valuable. Hiking taught me how to fight for myself, that I deserve every bit of happiness and love that comes my way, that I am worthy. When I hike the Great Western Loop this year, I want to do so in a way that I can help others manage their mental health. There is no better way to do this than by supporting NAMI NH. 100% of donations to this cause will go to NAMI NH so they can further fund programs to support and advocate for those with a mental illness..."

"Greetings from Gila National Park! The Gila Cliff Dwellings mark the end of my short warm up section hike of the Continental Divide Trail. When I come back through on the GWL, I will have completed all of the miles of this 3,100 mile long trail, in addition to completing the GWL.

Hiking through this part of the country has been a unique experience for me. I never really thought of New Mexico as a place I''d like to go and explore. Truth be told, I never really thought of it at all. Now that I''ve been here though, and hiked just a sliver of this state, I see how wrong I was. This place is gorgeous, especially Gila. The desert has given new meaning to sunsets and sunrises. Now that I''ve finished this section, I''m on my way to Arizona for a week and a half long layover to wait for the rest of the team. We will be leaving from Phoenix on March 4th to officially start the loop, and I could not be more excited! In the meantime, I''ll be doing day hikes in the Superstition Wilderness and other areas of Tonto National Forest to stay in shape. Until next time!"

Follow Along via Erica''s Blog | Donate to Erica''s Fundraiser for NAMI NH

Round-It-Up a Resounding Success!

We''re so grateful for the generosity of Concord Food Co-op, and their customers, in supporting Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Special thanks to Karen Trudel (NAMI NH Board member, Concord Food Co-op team member, and #mentalhealth champion) for helping to make this partnership possible!

Save the Date!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings start back up soon! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 72 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I''m biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Mark Your Calendar

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

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NAMI NH ENews | October 8, 2020

Every year, NAMIWalks NH brings thousands of Granite Staters together for NH’s largest mental health awareness and suicide prevention event. While we love seeing those smiling faces, with safety in mind the 18^thAnnual NAMIWalks NH has gone virtual! So how do you participate in NAMIWalks NH Your Way: A National Day of Hope on Saturday, October 10^th?

First, be sure you''re registered at www.NAMIWalksNH.org (it''s free)! Next whether you ride your bike, swim laps, knit a hat, or walk with family, share your activity on social media with our local hashtags #StigmaFreeInThe603 and #NAMIWalksNH (we''ll see and share posts set to public view). Though we can’t gather together in person this year, we need the strength and unity of the NAMI NH Family now more than ever. Get loud on October 10^th, spread the word, and raise awareness: #MentalHealthForAll!

If you don’t do the social media thing, don’t worry! You can send us your photos at walks@NAMINH.org and we will gladly post them for you. The more social posts we have, the more awareness we raise!

Register Today!

Mental Illness Awareness Week

October 4-10, 2020

Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. However, mental illness affects everyone directly or indirectly through family, friends or coworkers. Despite mental illnesses’ reach and prevalence, stigma and misunderstanding are also, unfortunately, widespread.

That is why each year, during the first week of October, NAMI and participants across the country raise awareness of mental illness. Each year, we educate the public, fight stigma and provide support. And each year, our movement grows stronger.

We believe that mental health conditions are important to discuss year-round, but highlighting them during Mental Illness Awareness Week provides a dedicated time for mental health advocates across the country to come together as one unified voice. Since 1990, when Congress officially established the first full week of October as Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW), advocates have worked together to sponsor activities, large or small, to educate the public about mental illness.

MIAW 2020

The theme of this year’s Mental Illness Awareness Week is, “What People with Mental Illness Want You to Know.” Throughout the week, we will be raising the voices of those with lived experience to talk about some of the conditions and symptoms that are most misunderstood.

You Are Not Alone

NAMI continues our year-long awareness campaign, You Are Not Alone, to feature the stories of people affected by mental illness to fight stigma, inspire others and educate the broader public. Now more than ever, the mental health community must come together and show that no one is ever really alone. No one should be without the information, support, connection and help they need.

MIAW Video Series

NAMI is featuring videos from real people sharing their lived experience with some of the symptoms and conditions we are focusing on during MIAW. Watch and share these videos:

Krishna Louis: What I wish people knew about anxiety

Andrea Landry: What I wish people knew about bipolar disorder

Ashlynn McNeeley: What I wish people knew about Borderline Personality Disorder

State of New Hampshire Proclamation for Mental Illness Awareness Week

Public Policy Update

Congress Passes 988

In late September, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the bipartisan S. 2661, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act.This bill is an important step to making 9-8-8, a nationwide three-digit dialing code for mental health crises and suicide prevention, operational. It passed the Senate earlier this year and will now go to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

Mental health crises deserve a mental health response and this law helps us get one step closer to that reality. This win was especially meaningful during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has already passed a major hurdle and approved 9-8-8, with a goal to have it available by July 2022.* S. 2661 will make 9-8-8 fully operational and provide resources to meet the demand for mental health services. When a person is in a mental health crisis, they should be connected to mental health support instead of ending up in the back of a police car. This law will help make that possible.

And this victory is because of the power of your voice and that of tens of thousands of other mental health advocates calling for a better way to help people with mental health conditions and their loved ones during a mental health crisis.

9-8-8 is not yet active, but help is available now if you or somebody you know is in mental health crisis. Text “NAMI” to 741741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. #988CantWait

NAMI NH is Nonpartisan

Like mental illness and suicide, NAMI New Hampshire is nonpartisan. We support policies that help people with mental health conditions and their families, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders on shared goals to improve the lives of individuals affected by mental illness and suicide.

Help us make sure mental health counts!

Participate in the 2020 census so our community gets the resources it needs to support people with mental illness.Visit www.nami.org/census to learn more.

Congrats New Family-to-Family Teachers!

NAMI New Hampshire is very excited to welcome a new group of NAMI Family-to-Family teachers, including: Linda Seninatore, Heidi Cantin, Caroline Helsen, Martina Berger and Patti Sardella. We are so grateful to these folks for stepping up to support Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #HopeStartsWithYou

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

36 children and 31 adults (29 in EDs, 2 in correctional facilities) are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI NH can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Learn more.

NAMI NH is very concerned by the rising number of individuals in mental health crisis being boarded while waiting for inpatient beds. We have been working with hospitals, mental health centers/providers, state leaders, and our congressional delegation to better understand the situation and to identify short- and long-term solutions.

COVID-19 has dramatically slowed the ability of hospitals to discharge individuals needing residential placements – especially youth. Locating appropriate housing for adults has also been challenging.

The NH Department of Health and Human Services is on track to open the Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing (PATH) program with 16 beds in September 2020, and is working on a plan to increase beds at NH Hospital by June 2021.

If folks are experiencing anxiety, depression, or signs of other mental health conditions, it’s important to seek help now – from a primary care provider, local mental health center, or other provider. Please don’t wait until the situation escalates into a crisis.

NAMI NH will continue to post ED boarding data via social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will share additional information about this situation as it becomes available.

Find your local community mental health center:

https://www.naminh.org/find-support/mental-health-centers/

To connect with (non-crisis) resources & support in the Granite State, contact NAMI New Hampshire''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

For 24/7 crisis support, visit: https://www.naminh.org/resources-2/crisis-lines/

To learn about resources, supports, FAQs, alternatives, rights and what to expect in the ED, visit: http://www.naminh.org/find-support/erwait/

NAMI NH shares ED boarding posts to our social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the most recently available data.

NAMI NH continues to make ED boarding a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In The News

NH highlights progress in 10-Year Mental Health Plan

(Seacoast Online)

NAMI NH Sees Troubling Stat: Rise in Children Waiting for Psychiatric Hospital Care

(NH Public Radio)

Exploring LGBTQ+ Mental Health with The Trevor Project

(Mental Health America)

Mental health patients again stuck in emergency rooms awaiting in-patient psychiatric beds

(WMUR)

Torrey Named Interim Chair of Psychiatry at Dartmouth-Hitchcock

(Dartmouth-Hitchcock)

Waiting list data points to growing mental health issues for NH children

(Concord Monitor)

The Coronavirus is Creating a Mental Health Crisis for Health Care Workers

(Huffington Post)

Military suicides up as much as 20% in COVID era

(Associated Press)

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Side by Side: Free Webinar Series for Older Adults, Their Families, and Caregivers

Register now for the session(s) you plan to attend!

Sponsored by Dartmouth-Hitchcock, this free webinar series for older adults, their families, and caregivers will be presented by NAMI New Hampshire''s Bernie Seifert:

Bernie Seifert earned her MSW degree with a sub-concentration in Aging from Boston University and has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving older adults and their families in New Hampshire since the late 1980s. She is the Director of Adult Programs at NAMI New Hampshire (National Alliance on Mental Illness NH). Over the past several years, Bernie has conducted numerous trainings on topics for varied audiences, including programs focusing on care giving, dementia, mental health and suicide prevention. She is also the Geriatric Mental Health Training Coordinator at the Northern New England Geriatric Education Center at the Dartmouth Centers on Health and Aging in Lebanon, NH. Her current affiliations include the Board of Directors for the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) (term 2019-21), Board of Directors of the NH Chapter of NASW (2007-17, President 2015-17), NH Coalition on Substance Abuse, Mental Health & Aging (Chairperson), NH Coalition on Caring, and the NH Attorney General’s Elderly and Vulnerable Adult Fatality Review Committee.

Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the NH Department of Health & Human Services, and Governor Sununu, NAMI NH is extending the suspension of all in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings through December 31, 2020.

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming FREE virtual offerings include a Side by Side webinar series, Family-to-Family course, In Our Own Voice training, monthly webinar series on First Episode Psychosis/Early Serious Mental Illness, suicide prevention virtual training for the community, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, and much more.

Share Your Story to Crush Stigma!

Has mental illness affected you or your family and friends? Please consider sharing your story for our anti-stigma campaign! Contact Michelle Wagner for more information.

Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone.

Help is available 24/7:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Development News

Garden in Support of NAMI NH!

NAMI NH is pleased to partner with Bloomin'' Bucks with Brent and Becky''s to help our supporters beautify their homes while giving back! Order your bulbs, plants, perennials, and anything else you might need for your garden at https://www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com/, choose NAMI NH as the designated charity, and we''ll receive 25% of your purchase!

Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening while supporting NAMI NH! Check out this article to learn how gardening can help your mental health: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/think-act-be/201906/10-mental-health-benefits-gardening.

Support NAMI NH While Shopping on Amazon Prime Day!

You can make a difference while you shop Amazon Prime Day deals on October 13 & 14. Simply shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/22-2760743 or with AmazonSmile ON in the Amazon Shopping app and AmazonSmile donates to NAMI New Hampshire!

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

Donate

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Resources

Honoring National Hispanic Heritage Month (9/15 - 10/15)

How My Latina Identity Holds Hands with My Depression

Celebrating Latino Culture and Creating Change

The Latino Paradox: Mental Health Appears to Not Be an Expectation

Life Under Construction

Life Under Construction is a social media platform on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter run by youth for youth, where those affected by mental health challenges can find information and support. If you haven’t checked it out yet, there’s creative and insightful new content coming in the next few weeks - you’ll be seeing posts from the amazing finalists of the Magnify Voices Expressive Arts Contest, mindfulness and stress management tips from Terri Hamilton of Apparent Connection, and more!

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Family and Friends of Loved Ones Experiencing Early Psychosis

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

OnwardNH.org is home to a wealth of information, videos, resources, and personal stories about first episode psychosis (FEP) and early serious mental illness (ESMI) in the Granite State - from the perspectives of individuals, family members, educators, and practitioners. The website now also features an Education page, where you can access videos from the FEP webinar series, including those highlighted below.

Creating a Learning Healthcare System in Early Psychosis: Challenges and Opportunities

Lisa Dixon, M.D., M.P.H.

NH FEP Series #4 – September 10, 2020

The Journey to Use Meds Optimally to Support Recovery

Patricia E. Deegan PhD

NH FEP Series #3 – August 20, 2020

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through December 31st. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

Mark Your Calendar

NAMI NH Leader Quarterly Zoom

Save the Date: Thursday, December 17, 5:30 PM

All program leaders are invited to join us on December 17th, including family support, connection support, parent support group leaders and Family-to-Family and Peer-to-Peer teachers. Keep an eye on your inboxes for the official invitation, but in the meantime, please save the date!

Also, if you have agenda ideas - please contact Liz Hodgkins at lhodgkins@NAMINH.org with thoughts on what you''d like to discuss.

Webinar Series from American Public Health Association

APHA is hosting a webinar series to give an in-depth look at racism as a driving force of the social determinants of health and equity. The series will explore efforts to address systems, policies and practices designed to limit and shape opportunities for people of color. Presenters will highlight collective and individual actions we can take to advance racial equity and justice.

Learn more & register.

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

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We are so grateful to the NAMI NH teachers, leaders, and speakers who have stepped up during these challenging times of COVID-19 to help ensure supports and programs remain available.

Whether switching gears to make previously in-person educational programs available via web, learning new technology to enable remote support groups, or pivoting to make live presentations online - you''re rocking it!

It is an honor to do this work alongside you. Thank you for stepping up to support Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #HopeStartsWithYou #InThisTogether

March 31, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

Emergency Department Boarding Hit Zero for First Time in 8+ Years

For the first time in more than 8 years, last week emergency department boarding hit zero - with no one in a mental health crisis boarded in a New Hampshire emergency department while awaiting an inpatient psychiatric bed.

Remarking on the occasion, NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton stated, "After 8 long years of people in mental health crisis being boarded in emergency departments, we celebrate this important milestone - a return to humane practice with immediate access to timely and effective treatment. We are grateful for all who have worked so diligently to resolve these issues, and especially to the frontline staff at New Hampshire Hospital and other inpatient facilities, emergency departments, community mental health centers, the NH Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and law enforcement and first responders. Despite the COVID-19 crisis, they are working hard to provide care, help, and hope to individuals with mental illness."

It has been a long road to reduce the prevalence of emergency department (ED) boarding. In January 2013, NAMI New Hampshire, joined by 15 other organizations, held a press conference to draw attention to, and decry the practice of, emergency department boarding. NAMI NH has consistently called out ED boarding as wrong medically, legally, ethically, morally, and economically.

Medically wrong - because people don''t receive timely treatment to reduce their suffering and promote speedy recovery - delayed treatment means less optimal long-term outcomes. Treatment delayed is treatment denied. It is also medically wrong because ED boarding delays treatment for people with other medical conditions who need emergency treatment.

Legally wrong - for individuals who meet the criteria for emergency psychiatric admission, New Hampshire law states they "shall be immediately" transported to a designated receiving facility. ED boarding is also legally wrong because New Hampshire law establishes a due process hearing after 72 hours, along with other legal protections ignored during ED boarding.

Ethically wrong - ED boarding places medical providers in the untenable position of failing to uphold the standard of care to "do no harm."

Morally wrong - treatment is not categorically denied to patients with heart disease, diabetes or any other medical condition.

Economically wrong - emergency departments are one of the costliest hospital services, and individuals could receive more effective and less costly treatment in other settings.

Although New Hampshire ranked top in the nation for community-based mental health services in the early 1990s, the mental health service delivery system deteriorated significantly after that, with the ED boarding crisis serving as the most visible symptom.

When NAMI NH publicly identified emergency department boarding as a crisis in January 2013, there were an average of 10 adults and 1-2 children boarded daily. Those numbers rose dramatically over the next several years, sometimes averaging more than 50 individuals, with waits for inpatient beds that could last 3-4 weeks. The highest year was 2017 - on May 25, 2017, there were 27 children boarded in emergency departments, and 71 adults were waiting for inpatient admission on August 21, 2017.

Looking back historically, the emergency department boarding crisis will represent another sad chapter in the treatment of mental illness. Individuals who experienced being boarded, along with their family members, and many emergency medicine providers, decried the practice as inhumane. Some people were held in windowless rooms, without access to street clothes, phones, or other personal devices. Others were held in gurneys in hallways, or separated from other patients only by a curtain. Some individuals who became aggressive or assaultive were sent to jails. At the peak of the emergency department boarding crisis, some individuals waited 3-4 weeks for an inpatient psychiatric bed admission.

Emergency department boarding was also very difficult for hospital staff who were neither trained nor equipped to provide ongoing care for people experiencing a psychiatric crisis. While it was a challenge to manage individuals in crisis who were sometimes aggressive, the chief of security of one hospital summed up the inhumanity of the situation by sharing, "The biggest challenge we faced from a security perspective is that when we allow people out of their room to go to the bathroom, they sometimes refused to go back into their rooms..."

The reasons behind the explosive growth of emergency department boarding are complex. It is a national problem, though few other areas of the United States saw the sometimes weeks-long delays experienced by people in New Hampshire. Longstanding discriminatory practices toward individuals with mental illness in access to care, in housing, in reimbursement rates to providers, and in research funding were all contributing factors, as were reductions in funding and community-based mental health services following the 2008 recession.

Commenting on recent progress, NAMI NH Executive Director Ken Norton remarked, "We are hopeful the current COVID-19 crisis will not erase the gains New Hampshire has made in the past several years to rebuild our community-based system of mental health care. The 10-Year Mental Health Plan released by the NH Department of Health and Human Services in 2019 is serving as an excellent blueprint for expanding mental health services across the lifespan, and returning our state to the forefront nationally in delivery of mental health services. NAMI NH is grateful for bipartisan support in the legislature and leadership from Governor Sununu, which laid the groundwork for eliminating ED boarding. We look forward to continued work with NH DHHS and community providers in operationalizing the 10-Year Mental Health Plan, especially the plans underway for a statewide system of mobile crisis response which will be very effective in diverting people from emergency departments and hospitalization."

While the situation around COVID-19 is changing rapidly, help will continue to remain available for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. NAMI NH encourages contacting your community mental health center, if safe to do so, before going to an emergency department. For contact information, visit www.NAMINH.org or call 211. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.

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Update from New Hampshire Hospital in Response to COVID-19

March 20, 2020

- New Hampshire Hospital is activating their surge plans to support taking on additional psychiatric patients from hospital emergency departments.

- Starting 3/20/20, one of the children''s units is being changed over from 12 private beds to 24 semi-private adult beds.

- Hampstead Hospital is fully operational with treating children that had been served by New Hampshire Hospital.

- New Hampshire Hospital staff will be reaching out to all hospitals that have Involuntary Emergency Admissions (IEA) patients on the wait list to start admitting them, approximately 5-6 patients per day, including over this weekend.

- The second 12-bed children''s unit will be changed over from 12 private beds to 24 semi-private adult beds once the final discharges and transitions as completed for 5 children. Those beds are expected to be operational by the end of next week.

- New Hampshire Hospital staff will continue the outreach to all hospitals as the additional beds become available.

Online Support & Resources

While NAMI NH in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings are currently suspended through May 4th, there is a wealth of remote support and resources available. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.-lines/

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

- Community Mental Health Centers respond to COVID-19.

- WarmLines around NH are responding to COVID-19, with several increasing hours.

- Peer Support Agencies are moving their support online when possible.

Learn more about NAMI NH''s FB support groups.

NAMI NH''s online Parent Support Group meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday, 10:00 am - 11:00 am. To learn more, contact Carol Lemelin at 603-664-2116.

.NAMI NH Exec. Dir. Ken Norton Appears on NHPR''s The Exchange

On Monday, March 30th, NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Ken Norton was a featured guest on The Exchange, to discuss how the mental health system is adjusting to COVID-19. Listen to the program.

Public Policy Update

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COVID-19 Advocacy: Share your mental health story

The spread of coronavirus is impacting every person in this country, but people affected by mental health conditions face unique challenges during this time.

Have you had trouble getting or staying on your mental health treatment plan? Have you had challenges getting needed medication, accessing therapy or other supports during this emergency?

Tell us your story.

Help power NAMI''s national advocacy by sharing how you''ve been helped during this time by your local, state or federal government - or tell us about challenges you''ve experienced that have hurt your ability to get mental health care.

In the Granite State...

New Futures, the NH Children''s Behavioral Health Collaborative (of which NAMI New Hampshire is a partner organization), and NH Alliance for Healthy Aging are working together to advance responsible legislation in light of the #COVID19 impact on New Hampshire.

Your voice is needed to help identify trends and advocate for policy solutions.

Please take a few moments to share the impact that #COVID19 is having on you, and on your community.

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Activity at NH Legislature Suspended

The NH Legislature has currently suspended activity due to COVID-19.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track all of the mental health and suicide prevention bills we''re following this session, sign up for public policy alerts, and more. Questions? Don''t hesitate to contact us: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

.Mental Health Counts (in the 2020 Census)

NAMI (National) CEO, Daniel H. Gillison, talks about the importance of the census for people with mental health conditions and why #MentalHealthCounts.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

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The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

Save the Date: Friday, April 24th

VIRTUAL Evening of Unity to Benefit NAMI NH

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Save the date of Friday, April 24th for the 1st Annual GFWC NH Evening of Unity to benefit NAMI NH. Comedy by Linda Belt and 2020 Unity Award to be awarded.

Get your tickets today!

In the News

Mental health a concern during the pandemic

Mental health providers offer support, services and tips

We can''t leave those with mental illness, addiction disorders behind

How to Ease Children''s Anxiety About COVID-19

How to Help Teens Shelter in Place

Coronavirus Has Upended Our World. It''s OK to Grieve.

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

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5 adults and

0 children

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are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

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Family, Youth & Children Newsletter

The spring edition of the Family, Youth & Children Newsletter from the New Hampshire Family Network and NAMI New Hampshire is here!

Start reading.

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Happy National Social Work Month to Elaine, Bernie, & Ken!

Every day, the nation''s 700,000 social workers act as advocates, champions and leaders who make our society a better place to live. National Professional Social Work Month (March) is an opportunity for social workers across the country and their allies to turn the spotlight on the profession and highlight the important contributions they make to society.

Here at NAMI NH, we''re wishing a very Happy National Professional Social Work Month to the social workers on our team (pictured above L to R): Elaine de Mello, Bernie Seifert, and Ken Norton!

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Join Us Online in April...

Be sure to follow NAMI New Hampshire on Facebook to catch the latest updates on our April happenings. Looking forward to seeing you online!

ONLINE RALLY for NAMIWalks NH!

Wednesday, April 15th, 12 PM

We have a terrific program in store for those who join us online on Wednesday, April 15th at noon! Learn how to register for NAMIWalks NH, hear tips from some rockstar Team Captains, learn why NAMIWalks NH matters, and get ready to have more FUN than ever at NH''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event on October 4th.

More Rally details coming soon...

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR NAMIWalks NH 2020!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings are underway! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

Life Under Construction Contest!

We are looking for art pieces that reflect the current state of the world, and the positives that we can find in these changes. Whether it''s a reflection of the way we''ve adjusted our lives to keep others safe, a time we saw someone go out of the way to help someone else, or maybe how we''ve reconnected with people via social media, all positive actions and events matter. These pieces can be photography, poetry, music, paintings, drawings, etc.

We will post your art on the Life Under Construction Facebook page. The post with the most likes will win a $25 gas card! Once your piece is posted, be sure to share it with family and friends!

Rules:

? Submit your piece via our Twitter (@LUCNamiNH), Instagram (@lucnaminh), or Facebook (Life Under Construction) pages'' DMs, or email Michele Watson at mwatson@NAMINH.org

? Include a brief description to accompany your submission

? Submission piece must be your own work

? One entry per person

? All submissions are due by April 5th

? The piece with the most likes by April 12th wins!

? Ages 13-26, please include your age with your submission

? (1) Prize $25 gas card

We can''t wait to see and share your art!

About Life Under Construction

This group provides a place for youth whose lives are affected by mental illness to share ideas, concerns, and questions they have about planning their future. Learn how you can get involved in helping to create a better mental health system for youth and how to support others affected by mental illness. We look forward to getting to know you!

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings

All are welcome to attend the Monthly FEP/ESMI Stakeholder Meetings. These meetings typically take place on the 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm at NAMI New Hampshire. To learn more or to RSVP, please message Michelle Wagner .

Coming this Spring - Save the Date for Connection Facilitator Training!

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. These closed Facebook groups require an add from admins - click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Makin'' it Happens Online Forum: I''m okay, are you okay?

Wednesday, April 1st, 3:00 PM

On April 1st, Makin'' It Happen will be talking with educator Carol Garhart about "Pandemic Parenting!" Wondering how to balance homeschooling, working from home, and the warmer weather approaching, with stress, anxiety, and fear? Every day there is a "new normal" and everyone is feeling the pressure. There might not be concise answers during a time like this, but you''re not alone! Topics to be discussed:

Being okay with "messy"
When and how to take breaks
Talking to children about their feelings
Remembering we are all different
Managing and understanding expectations

You can post your questions and raise your concerns with Carol. This casual conversation about Pandemic Parenting is sure to be insightful and enlightening.

Click to join:https://zoom.us/j/137504891

About Carol Garhart: Carol Garhart has worked as a preschool teacher and college instructor for over thirty years. She most recently served as the child care services manager at Belknap-Merrimack Head Start and an instructor in early childhood education at Granite State College. She is the author of several books on the subject of early childhood education.

#MentalHealth Apps

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reviewed several #mentalhealth apps for research evidence, personalization, effectiveness, and more.

Check out their findings.

Telehealth for Mental Health Professionals

For a limited time, PESI is making their Telehealth for Mental Health Professionals: 2-Day Distance Therapy Training FREE!

(Enter the discount code TELEFREE at checkout - no CC info. required.)

Click here for registration or more information.

Wellness Breaks for Mental Health Staff

The New England Mental Health Technology Center is now offering virtual Wellness Breaks for all staff involved in providing mental health services in New England.

Wellness Breaks offer a way to connect, decompress, and share resiliency stories and resources in a peer-to-peer format during this pandemic. They will start Wellness Breaks with a short centering activity followed by an open forum for conversation. Sessions will be hosted by the New England Mental Health Technology Transfer Center staff members.

Wellness Breaks will be held online three times a week. Each will be 30 minutes in length. Individuals can attend as frequently as they like.

- Mondays from 12:00-12:30pm

- Wednesday from 12:00-12:30pm

- Fridays from 8:00-8:30pm (not a typo, yes, Friday evening)

Use this information to attend:

Join from computer: https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/6048169923

Development News

Update from the Trail

"My name is Erica (Spitfire), and this year I am taking on the incredible physical challenge of hiking the 7,000 mile Great Western Loop with a team called The Push Beyond. It is our goal to raise money for nonprofit organizations that hold an importance to each hiker on the team. My organization is NAMI New Hampshire. Mental health plays a huge factor in the happiness and well being of our communities, yet many still neglect it. Mental health issues are something we cannot see, and so they often get brushed aside and invalidated, making the problem worse. In my short life, I have had countless friends of all demographics who struggle with mental health. I have worked with teenagers who have attempted suicide. I have fought with my own mind, and often felt like I didn''t deserve to be happy. Thankfully, I found thruhiking. In 2017, I hiked the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. It was the hardest thing I''d ever done, but it was also the most valuable. Hiking taught me how to fight for myself, that I deserve every bit of happiness and love that comes my way, that I am worthy. When I hike the Great Western Loop this year, I want to do so in a way that I can help others manage their mental health. There is no better way to do this than by supporting NAMI NH. 100% of donations to this cause will go to NAMI NH so they can further fund programs to support and advocate for those with a mental illness..."

"Greetings from Gila National Park! The Gila Cliff Dwellings mark the end of my short warm up section hike of the Continental Divide Trail. When I come back through on the GWL, I will have completed all of the miles of this 3,100 mile long trail, in addition to completing the GWL.

Follow Along via Erica''s Blog | Donate to Erica''s Fundraiser for NAMI NH

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings are underway! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 72 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I''m biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Mark Your Calendar

Me2 Orchestra continues to connect (virtually for now)...

If you are interested in joining, please email Caroline at info@me2orchestra.org to receive more information. They''d love to have you check out a rehearsal or just jump right in!

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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Join us for the first event in the 2020 NAMIWalks NH season!

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**All attendees will be entered to win a $50 Visa g/c.**

(RSVP to Walks@NAMINH.org for the Zoom meeting link)

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2020 Incentives Unveiled. | Tips from Rock Star Team Captains.
Ken Norton Shares His Reasons to Walk. | Learn to Navigate the Walk Website.

April 14, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

A COVID-19 Update from Executive Director Ken Norton

Click to download Ken''s message.

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through May 4th. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, many support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.-lines/

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Learn more about NAMI NH''s FB groups.

The new ONLINE Family Support Group meets weekly on Wednesdays at 6 pm. To register, email Deb at NAMINHVirtual@gmail.com.

NAMI NH''s online Parent Support Group meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday, 10:00 am - 11:00 am. To learn more, contact Carol Lemelin at 603-664-2116.

Public Policy Update

The COVID-19 crisis is affecting everyone, causing more demand for mental health services. The NAMI community knows, even in the best of times, how hard it is to get mental health care.

Unfortunately, Congress'' response to this crisis hasn''t focused enough on mental health, leaving mental health providers struggling to offer services and keep their doors open.

In the coming weeks and months, we''re going to need more mental health care than ever. This is why Congress needs to act quickly to not only preserve our existing mental health system but to also increase our system''s capacity.

Members of Congress need to hear your voice now. As a constituent, you have power to ensure people with mental health conditions aren''t left behind in our nation''s response to this crisis.

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Activity at NH Legislature Suspended

The NH Legislature has currently suspended activity due to COVID-19.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track all of the mental health and suicide prevention bills we''re following this session, sign up for public policy alerts, and more. Questions? Don''t hesitate to contact us: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

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The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

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VIRTUAL Evening of Unity to Benefit NAMI NH

Friday, April 24th

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Folks who purchase tickets will have live access to exclusive material via Zoom, including remarks from Ken Norton, Executive Director of NAMI NH, a powerful In Our Own Voice speaker, and the presentation of the first GFWC-NH Unity Award.

Get your tickets today!

In the News

Amid litigation, milestone hit in ER boarding crisis

Arguments Heard In Lawsuit Alleging Lack of Due Process for N.H. Mental Health Patients

Emergency room care of mentally ill reduced, making way for COVID-19 patients

Mental health centers remain open and add remote services, brace for growing need

NH psychotherapist discusses effects of coronavirus crisis on anxiety levels

Mental health specialists are ramping up ''tele-therapy'' treatments for clients during pandemic

The Covid-19 crisis too few are talking about: health care workers'' mental health

The Mental-Health-Care System Isn''t Ready for Covid-19 Either

How To Get Therapy When You Can''t Leave The House

How teenagers can protect their mental health during coronavirus

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

.

10 adults and

0 children

.

are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

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Are You a Parent or Caregiver of a School-Aged Child?

If so, we are looking for your help!

The Bureau of Student Wellness at the New Hampshire Department of Education has tapped NAMI NH to connect with parents and caregivers to find out about the current engagement opportunities within your child''s school, challenges to engaging with the school, and suggestions for improvement.

The information gathered will be reviewed by a team of family representatives and professionals to develop a plan which schools/parent & youth organizations will utilize to help them increase meaningful family & youth engagement opportunities and allow diverse leadership roles (co-creators, supporters, advocates, models) for family members to engage.

How can you help?

Complete this electronic survey which contains two demographic questions and five main questions about school engagement. Estimated time to complete the survey is under 10 minutes.

Your answers will be held in strict confidence and will be used only for the purposes of this study. The results will be reported in aggregate form only and cannot be identified individually.

Questions? Please contact Sandy Alonzo at 603-545-2014 or salonzo@NAMINH.org.

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

NAMI NH''s Connect Program to Present on The Afternoon Bell

Thursday, April 16, 3 pm

The team from the Bureau of Student Wellness is presenting Facebook live sessions, dubbed The Afternoon Bell, most weekdays at 3 pm. The Afternoon Bell presents an opportunity to discuss issues with, and provide supports to, #NHEducators and #NHFamilies as #NHLearnsRemotely.

On Thursday, April 16th at 3 pm, "The Connect Program - Suicide Risk Response" will focus on risk and protective factors, warning signs for suicide and national, state and local resources.

The session is presented in partnership with NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program. Ann Duckless, MA is NAMI NH''s Community Educator and Prevention Specialist, and Kelley Caravona, MS, CPS is the Suicide Prevention Coordinator for the New Hampshire Nexus Project 2.0 GLS Program. Both Ann and Kelley have extensive experience in suicide prevention and postvention response.

Visit the Bureau of Student Wellness Facebook page on Thursday, April 16th at 3 pm to catch the presentation.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

.Save the Dates for NAMI NH Speakers!

In Our Own Voice (4/23) & Life Interrupted (4/30)

Tues. 4/23, 7 pm - In Our Own Voice (Kim LaMontagne)
Tues. 4/30, 7 pm - Life Interrupted (Shelly Lathrop)

RSVP for meeting links.

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For more information, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at 1-800-242-6264 (press 4) or info@NAMINH.org.

New ONLINE Weekly Family Support Group

To register, email Deb at NAMINHVirtual@gmail.com and include:

tel. # | zip code | relationship/age of your family member/friend of primary concern

.Parents Meeting the Challenge: ONLINE Live!

New session of this FREE 8-week educational program starts 4/21!

PMC Online Live! meets Tues. evenings:
4/28 - 6/16, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Virtual Meet & Greet: 4/21, 6:00 - 6:30 pm

Register Today!

Contact: Michele Watson 603-545-9569 or mwatson@NAMINH.org

.First Episode Psychosis (FEP)/Early Serious Mental Illness (ESMI)

ONLINE Stakeholder Work Group Meeting

Tuesday, April 21st, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

You are invited to bring your FEP/ESMI experiences to the (virtual) table at any, or all, of the Stakeholder Work Group meetings.

Please RSVP to mwagner@NAMINH.org in order to receive the remote access link.

Learn more about the FEP/ESMI initiative.

Virtual Meeting for Support Group Leaders & Teachers

Saturday, April 18, 10 am - 12 pm

RSVP to Liz Hodgkins for Zoom link

Many NAMI NH support group leaders and teachers are continuing to offer phone or technology based support. This virtual meeting will provide a check-in to see how these offerings are going, and to learn how NAMI NH can best support leaders and teachers amidst all the changes.

The agenda starts with a report from Ken Norton, Executive Director of NAMI NH, followed by check-ins and updates.

If you would like join the discussion, please reach out to Liz Hodgkins at lhodgkins@naminh.org for the Zoom link.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

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18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

** All Walkers registered by end of day on April 15th will receive a super cool NAMIWalks NH holographic decal. **

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings are underway! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

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Color This Cute Pug by 4/15 & Get a Cool NAMI NH Supporter Decal!

Break out the crayons, markers, colored pencils, paints, or pastels and color this pug by 4/15!

NAMIWalks NH is super dog-friendly, and NAMI NH''s Lyne Lillis is super artistic, so here''s a fun coloring contest. Email a photo of your colored pug to Walks@NAMINH.org by 4/15, 11:59 pm and we''ll send you a NAMI NH supporter decal sticker (dog sled ride not included).

Download a PDF of the coloring pug.

Did you know registration is OPEN for New Hampshire''s largest mental health awareness and suicide prevention event?

NAMIWalks NH 2020 returns on Sun. 10/4 - family-friendly, dog-friendly, free & fun - join us:

www.NAMIWalksNH.org

.Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire

The NAMI NH family and their furry friends are so happy to share a weekly storytime video for kids of all ages. Click below to watch the first episodes of Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire, and hop over to our Facebook page each Friday for a new story.

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. These closed Facebook groups require an add from admins - click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

.Coronavirus & Mental Health

.

It''s little surprise these days and weeks under the shadow of #COVID19 are negatively impacting the mental health of so many. NAMI NH is here to help connect Granite Staters with local resources & support - please reach out: info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

#WearBlueDay Flashback

On #WearBlueDay this year, we fondly remembered when the NAMI New Hampshire family was together in real life (pictured above). #WearBlueDay helps to spread awareness for the prevention of child abuse and neglect during National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Everyone plays a role in making #greatchildhoods happen - thank you to NH Children''s Trust for leading the way.

According to Children''s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, "Experts predict that child abuse cases in the U.S. will rise due to COVID-19, social isolation, and financial and other stressors, making awareness that much more crucial." Find out how you can help make #greatchildhoods happen.

.

NAMI NH Marks #WorldAutismAwarenessDay

On #WorldAutismAwarenessDay, NAMI NH wore blue for awareness and to honor our family and friends who do life with autism.
.
Kids with ASD may be at higher risk for developing mental health conditions. NAMI NH is here to support NH families: 1-800-242-6264 (press 4) or info@NAMINH.org.

Development News

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings are underway! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 72 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I''m biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

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NAMI NH ENews | November 30, 2020

#HopeStartsWithYou

Giving Tuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Over the past nine years, this idea has grown into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.

NAMI NH is proud to participate in Giving Tuesday on December 1, 2020. At a time when we are all experiencing the effects of the pandemic, Giving Tuesday emphasizes opportunities to give back to communities and causes in safe ways that allow for social connection and kindness even while practicing physical distancing.

To give to NAMI New Hampshire on Giving Tuesday, visit our website. Thank you for helping us provide support, education, and advocacy for Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Donate

Got Ideas? Let''s Hear Them!

Please share your ideas in this 3-question survey to help us plan the best possible NAMI NH Annual Conference: tinyurl.com/2021ConferenceSurvey

Due to COVID-19 concerns, the NAMI NH Annual Conference in March 2021 will be virtual, and once again available at no cost to participants.

Public Policy Update

What the Affordable Care Act Has Meant for People with Mental Health Conditions — And What Could Be Lost

The Affordable Care Act has had an enormous impact on people with mental illness. This issue brief from NAMI National, What the Affordable Care Act Has Meant for People with Mental Health Conditions — And What Could be Lost, highlights the importance of the ACA and illustrates why we can’t go back to a time when health coverage for millions of people with mental health conditions was inaccessible, inadequate and unaffordable.

NAMI NH is Nonpartisan

Like mental illness and suicide, NAMI New Hampshire is nonpartisan. We support policies that help people with mental health conditions and their families, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders on shared goals to improve the lives of individuals affected by mental illness and suicide.

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

7 children and 47 adults (46 in EDs, 1 in a correctional facility) are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI NH can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Learn more.

NAMI NH is very concerned by the rising number of individuals in mental health crisis being boarded while waiting for inpatient beds. We have been working with hospitals, mental health centers/providers, state leaders, and our congressional delegation to better understand the situation and to identify short- and long-term solutions.

COVID-19 has dramatically slowed the ability of hospitals to discharge individuals needing residential placements – especially youth. Locating appropriate housing for adults has also been challenging.

The NH Department of Health and Human Services opened the Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing (PATH) program with 16 beds in September 2020, and is working on a plan to increase beds at NH Hospital by June 2021.

If folks are experiencing anxiety, depression, or signs of other mental health conditions, it’s important to seek help now – from a primary care provider, local mental health center, or other provider. Please don’t wait until the situation escalates into a crisis.

NAMI NH will continue to post ED boarding data via social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will share additional information about this situation as it becomes available.

Find your local community mental health center:

https://www.naminh.org/find-support/mental-health-centers/

To connect with (non-crisis) resources & support in the Granite State, contact NAMI New Hampshire''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

For 24/7 crisis support, visit: https://www.naminh.org/resources-2/crisis-lines/

To learn about resources, supports, FAQs, alternatives, rights and what to expect in the ED, visit: http://www.naminh.org/find-support/erwait/

NAMI NH shares ED boarding posts to our social media on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the most recently available data.

NAMI NH continues to make ED boarding a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In The News

Numbers indicate pandemic stress wearing on NH youths'' mental health

(Valley News)

NH''s new ''Kid Governor'' focuses on children''s mental health

(Seacoast Online)

Nashua''s Mobile Crisis Response Team to Expand

(Union Leader)

Preventing teen suicide with Columbia risk assessment tool

(Seacoast Online)

Breaking through the stigma of mental illness

(Union Leader)

Pandemic puts added strain on LGBTQ mental health

(NBC News)

My Turn: The benefits of expressing gratitude

(Concord Monitor)

McKinsey report: 62% of workers worldwide consider mental health ‘a top challenge’

(CNBC)

Telehealth not enough to offset crushing demand for mental health services

(MedCity News)

New Hampshire Recovery Centers Struggle to Balance Dueling Epidemics

(NHPR)

Virtual Reality and the COVID Mental Health Crisis

(Scientific American)

Unemployed face additional mental health burdens as joblessness stretches on

(NBC News)

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the NH Department of Health & Human Services, and Governor Sununu, NAMI NH is extending the suspension of all in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings through December 31, 2020.

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming FREE virtual offerings include a Side by Side webinar series, Family-to-Family course, In Our Own Voice training, monthly webinar series on First Episode Psychosis/Early Serious Mental Illness, suicide prevention virtual training for the community, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, and much more.

Thanks for Sharing Your 603 Stories!

We are so very grateful to all of the folks who have already stepped up to crush stigma by sharing their stories! For a sneak peek, click on the images below. Also, be sure to check 603Stories.org regularly as we continue to add new content.

Interested in sharing your story? Please email JB Brackett to learn more.

Suicide Prevention

New Hampshire Suicide Prevention Annual Report (2019)

The newest edition of the NH Suicide Prevention Annual Report is now available. This covers calendar year 2019 and presents new data and narrative about activities that took place throughout the year.

To access the report, click on the image.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone.

Help is available 24/7:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Development News

Thank You, October Facebook Fundraisers!

October was truly an amazing month for Facebook Fundraisers! We are grateful to the 315 generous donors who gave an absolutely astounding $13,387.50 for 39 NAMIWalks NH Your Way fundraisers ($10,057.50) and 14 birthday and “just because” fundraisers ($3,330)! Because of you, and the kindness of those who gave in your honor, Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide will continue to receive help and hope.

It’s easy to get in on the Facebook fundraising fun – and, as an added bonus, there are no fees from Facebook to either the donor or to NAMI NH from these fundraisers! If you have questions or need guidance, please contact us at development@NAMINH.org.

Thank you for sharing your Facebook fundraiser contributions with NAMI NH and those we serve. We are honored to do this work alongside you and are grateful for your steadfast support.

Post-Walk Thanks

In this season of gratitude, we extend a tremendous thank you to the amazing participants, fabulous teams, and wonderful donors and supporters for making NAMIWalks NH Your Way a smashing success!

Click the video link for a gorgeous montage of gratitude, and check out the newly updated photo album below to see your fellow mental health advocates crushing stigma statewide. #HopeStartsWithYou

Post Walk Celebration Event Recording - November 18, 2020

View the Day of Hope Photo Album

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

Donate

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Resources

Webinar Recording of Dr. Ross Greene

We had a tremendous response to the first installment of NAMI NH''s Child and Youth Focused Virtual Series. More than 500 folks registered to attend the November 19th session with Dr. Ross Greene.

For those who were unable to attend the live webinar, the below video recording is available to watch at your convenience.

NAMI New Hampshire''s Children & Youth Programs Team supports kids, and their families, across the Granite State. To connect with NH resources & support, contact NAMI New Hampshire''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

A Community Conversation with Dr. Ross Greene - November 19, 2020

Watch Side by Side Webinars

If you missed a webinar in the Side by Side series, hop over to NAMI NH''s YouTube page to watch the recording. The below featured videos are Medical Care: Who Makes the Decisions and When? and Coping with Changing and Challenging Behaviors.

Side by Side - Medical Care: Who Makes the Decisions and When

Side by Side: Coping with Changing and Challenging Behaviors

"How is School Affecting Children''s and Families'' Mental Health During COVID-19?"

The National Federation of Families Wants to Hear from You!

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Family and Friends of Loved Ones Experiencing Early Psychosis

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

OnwardNH.org is home to a wealth of information, videos, resources, and personal stories about first episode psychosis (FEP) and early serious mental illness (ESMI) in the Granite State - from the perspectives of individuals, family members, educators, and practitioners. The website now also features an Education page, where you can access webinar videos, including those highlighted below.

Journey to Hope, Heart, and Healing

November 13, 2020

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through December 31st. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

Mark Your Calendar

Hope for the Holidays

(Riverbend Community Mental Health)

December 14th, 7:00 PM

Learn more and register.

A (virtual) Interfaith Service of hope and healing with readings, prayers, music, reflections, and short meditations from a variety of faith traditions.

A time to acknowledge our feelings of sadness and concern, to remember that we are not alone, and to find encouragement to live the days ahead.

NAMI NH Leader Quarterly Zoom

Save the Date: Thursday, December 17, 5:30 PM

All program leaders are invited to join us on December 17th, including family support, connection support, parent support group leaders and Family-to-Family and Peer-to-Peer teachers. Keep an eye on your inboxes for the official invitation, but in the meantime, please save the date!

Also, if you have agenda ideas - please contact Liz Hodgkins at lhodgkins@NAMINH.org with thoughts on what you''d like to discuss.

Webinar Series from American Public Health Association

APHA is hosting a webinar series to give an in-depth look at racism as a driving force of the social determinants of health and equity. The series will explore efforts to address systems, policies and practices designed to limit and shape opportunities for people of color. Presenters will highlight collective and individual actions we can take to advance racial equity and justice.

Learn more & register.

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

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NH Gives Ends TONIGHT at 6 PM!

We are so proud to be part of a movement that raised $2 MILLION for nonprofits throughout the Granite State overnight! With NH Gives wrapping up TODAY at 6PM, it''s not too late to participate.

Thank you to the donors who raised over $6,000 (and climbing!) for NAMI NH so far! If you''d like to give, click here and make a gift to support Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Thank you for your support of NAMI NH and so many other nonprofits doing great work in our state. We are honored to be among them.

Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the NH Department of Health & Human Services, and Governor Sununu, NAMI NH is extending the suspension of all in-person support group meetings, classes, presentations, and trainings through June 30, 2020.

During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Current and upcoming virtual offerings include the In Our Own Voice speaker series, Pride Month Zoom for Youth & Young Adults, additional offerings in the Side-by-Side Lunch & Learn series, a free webinar on First Episode Psychosis, twice weekly Yoga & Meditation, and much more.

June 10, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

We hope you can join us virtually for our 2020 Annual Meeting!

Please RSVP by June 16th at tinyurl.com/NAMINHAnnualMeeting.

NAMI NH members are eligible to vote on the slate of Board members. Not sure if your membership is current? Email us and we will check for you! Not yet a member? Becoming a member is easy and affordable! A household membership is $60 annually, and an individual membership is $40 each year. We thank you for your support!

June is Pride Month!

NAMI New Hampshire stands with the LGBTQ+ community year-round and will continue to examine how we can best offer support and advocacy within families, schools, government, workplaces, and larger communities.

Our community members who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a higher risk for mental health issues. Support from family members, friends, colleagues, and community members is critical.

NAMI New Hampshire support groups are open to all - learn more.

For information on mental health conditions and the LGBTQ+ community, along with local and national resources, click here.

Pride Month Zoom for Youth & Young Adults

Tuesday, June 30th, 5:30 pm

Pride Month Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire

The NAMI NH family is having a blast sharing a weekly storytime video for kids of all ages. Click below to watch the latest episodes of Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire, and hop over to our Facebook page each Friday for a new story.

In honor of Pride Month, all of our June books feature a wonderful cast of LGBTQ+ characters.

You can watch all episodes anytime on our YouTube playlist.

How You Can Help LGBTQ Youth Mental Health

Thursday, June 18, 2020; 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Register Now

Revolution and protest are daily parts of our lives. Fifty years ago, at Stonewall Inn, a revolution and protest would change the course of history when young LGBTQ people spoke up about their oppression. Twenty years ago, The Trevor Project would take the first frightened calls from LGBTQ youth who were no longer going to accept being silent. In this webinar, presenter Sam Brinton will discuss the latest data and research on the mental health of LGBTQ youth as well the ways both big and small that each and every one of us can save the lives of LGBTQ young people.

NAMI''s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ken Duckworth, will moderate a Q&A session at the end of the webinar. This webinar will be recorded.

Sam Brinton is the Vice President of Advocacy and Government Affairs at The Trevor Project. Sam is one of the world''s leading advocates for LGBTQ youth. They are the founder of the 50 Bill 50 States campaign at The Trevor Project to end the dangerous and discredited practice of conversion therapy, first in the United States and then around the globe.

Public Policy Update

On May 29, 2020, both NAMI National and NAMI New Hampshire released statements addressing systemic racism and its impact upon mental health.

Read the Statements.

Black Mental Health Resources from NAMI.

.

NH Legislative Update

The NH Legislature is scheduled to meet this week to address a few priority bills and bills related to COVID response. In order to maintain social distancing, the Senate will meet in Representatives Hall and the House will meet at UNH in the Whitemore Center. There are procedural/political issues that are still to be resolved that may actually prevent the House from meeting. In preparation for this, several virtual hearings were held during the past week which NAMI NH participated in. These included:

SB 295 (support) Which would broaden the oversight of the Office of Child Advocate to include among other areas mental health related issues.
HB 1280 (support) This now consolidated bill will include almost a half dozen different bills related to addressing the high cost of pharmaceuticals including possible importation from Canada.
SB 555 (support) a bill which would provide parity between payment for telehealth services and office-based services and make permanent some of the easements to telehealth regulations which occurred during COVID emergency.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track all of the mental health and suicide prevention bills we''re following this session, sign up for public policy alerts, and more. Questions? Don''t hesitate to contact us: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

.

The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In the News

Handgun ownership is a ''major risk factor'' for suicide

NAMI NH adapts in the midst of difficulty to provide continued community support

Opinion: Telehealth may be the pandemic''s silver lining

In a World ''So Upside Down,'' the Virus Is Taking a Toll on Young People''s Mental Health

Hassan, colleagues call for robust support for children''s mental health care

Talking to Kids about Racism Is a Duty-and Good for Their Mental Health

For Older People, Despair, as Well as Covid-19, Is Costing Lives

Yesterday in NH Emergency Departments...

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4 kids and 20 adults (18 in EDs, 2 in correctional facilities)

.

were waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

NAMI In Our Own Voice Zoom Speaker Series

NAMI In Our Own Voice presentations change attitudes, assumptions and ideas about people with mental health conditions. Presentations provide a personal perspective, as speakers talk openly about their lived experiences.

Register for upcoming presentations.

NAMI NH on NHPR''s The Exchange

Brian Huckins, Director of Children & Youth Programs at NAMI New Hampshire, was recently featured on New Hampshire Public Radio''s The Exchange. The conversation focused on children''s mental health, addressing kids'' concerns, and exploring potential long-term impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Listen to the episode: Helping Children Deal With Isolation And Uncertainty During Unrest And A Pandemic

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

Suicide Prevention and Postvention Training Goes Virtual with NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Program

The Connect Program is now working virtually in states around the country, providing prevention and postvention programs through Zoom and with online training programs. This month, the Connect team is conducting virtual and online trainings with Ohio and Oregon, and next month with Colorado and Connecticut. Last month, the Alaska Air National Guard had their medical and mental health providers complete the Connect Suicide Prevention training online during drill weekend as part of the ongoing initiatives that Alaska is implementing with NAMI New Hampshire and the Connect Program.

NAMI NH''s Ann Duckless and Kelley Caravona are conducting virtual trainings in New Hampshire for school personnel and social service providers around the state. Through the Garrett Lee Smith grant, training and planning sessions are also being scheduled for the fall.

Learn more about suicide prevention and postvention trainings with NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Program.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

Free Webinar on First Episode Psychosis

Thursday, June 18, 2:00 PM

Register for Zoom link!

The NAMI NH Annual Conference is Going Virtual!

Free learning series begins on July 23rd...

ONLINE Weekly Family Support Group

To register, email Deb at NAMINHVirtual@gmail.com and include:

tel. # | zip code | relationship/age of your family member/friend of primary concern

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through June 30th. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.-lines/

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Development News

Party with a Purpose: A Day of Hope!

"At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us."

(Albert Schweitzer)

Thank you for joining us for our virtual Party with a Purpose: A Day of Hope on May 30th. While we missed seeing you, hearing from you, and listening to you in person this year, we are grateful for the many ways in which you continue to support the mission of NAMI New Hampshire.

Together with other compassionate and committed donors, you raised over $14,000 to help provide support, education, and advocacy to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. Thank you to those who contributed to our Challenge Pledge (which we exceeded, thanks to you!), bid on or donated an item in the Day of Hope Online Auction sponsored by AmeriHealth Caritas, and shared our posts far and wide on social media. Your gifts will impact many lives in the months to come, and we are grateful.

Click here to watch the inspirational videos from NAMI NH Executive Director Ken Norton and Deputy Director Susan Stearns.

Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Janssen, for making this event possible.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health awareness and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings are underway! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking event, please contact Brittany Porter.

Thank You!

May 2020 Facebook Fundraisers

Thank you to the many generous folks who hosted Facebook Fundraisers for NAMI NH in May. You raised an astounding $4,888! Because of you, and the kindness of those who gave in your honor, Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide will continue to receive help and hope.

It''s easy to get in on the Facebook fundraising fun - and, as an added bonus, there are no fees from Facebook to either the donor or to NAMI NH from these fundraisers! If you have questions or need guidance, please contact us at development@naminh.org.

Thank you to the kind and generous folks who chose to share their Facebook fundraiser contributions with NAMI NH. We are honored to do this work alongside you and are grateful for your steadfast support.

Make an Impact

Despite the current situation, we want to share some key changes for the 2020 tax filing year that may be beneficial to you and your family during these difficult times.

The U.S. Congress has passed the CARES Act to provide economic assistance and there are some important changes that may make a difference for you this year.

Checks for individuals: If you had an income of less than $75K last year, you will receive a check of $1,200. Individuals who earned between $75K and $100K will also receive a check on a sliding scale based on their incomes. If you have a bank account on file with the IRS, you likely received a direct deposit in mid-April. Otherwise, the IRS will begin mailing checks in early May.

Additional Income Tax Charitable Deduction: You can deduct up to $300 above the standard deduction for individuals in charitable contributions. This is for everyone, even if you have no other itemizations.

No "RMDs" from your IRA, but Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are still a smarter way to give: For individuals with IRA accounts, there are no Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) this year. However, giving pre-tax funds out of your IRA will still lower your future tax burden compared to giving cash. If you are interested in this method of giving, please contact your IRA custodian for more information.

We hope you find this information useful as you make important decisions about how to best support NAMI NH and other charities this year. If you have any further questions about the CARES Act or just want to reach out, please contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development or call 603-225-5359 ext. 350.

We are grateful for your steadfast and generous support of NAMI NH.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Mark Your Calendar

Webinar Series from American Public Health Association

APHA is hosting a webinar series to give an in-depth look at racism as a driving force of the social determinants of health and equity. The series will explore efforts to address systems, policies and practices designed to limit and shape opportunities for people of color. Presenters will highlight collective and individual actions we can take to advance racial equity and justice.

Learn more & register.

NAMICon Goes Virtual for 2020

After thoughtful deliberation, NAMI National has made the difficult decision to transition NAMICon 2020 from an in-person meeting to a virtual experience. As you are aware, risks associated with large-scale live events this year remain unknown, and we are committed to the health and safety of all our attendees, staff, presenters, sponsors and exhibitors. We also recognize that many people and organizations now face tough budget decisions, especially related to travel and professional development opportunities, that may make the trip to Atlanta less feasible.

Learn more.

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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During this period of physical distancing, the NAMI NH team is working hard to stay socially connected to Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

To connect with resources & support, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at info@NAMINH.org or 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Support groups throughout the state have moved online - contact your local leader to learn more.

Upcoming virtual offerings include a Life Interrupted speaker presentation (April 30th), Family-to-Family educational program (starts May 5th), and a Side-by-Side Lunch & Learn on Understanding Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults (May 7th). Keep reading to learn more.

April 29, 2020

NAMI NH ENews

Thank You, NAMI NH Volunteers!

Throughout National Volunteer Week (April 19th - 25th), NAMI NH took the opportunity to share how much we appreciate all of our volunteers. These generous folks give NAMI NH statewide reach - bringing messages of hope and reassurance that people aren''t alone to every corner of the Granite State.

From teachers, support group facilitators, board members, NAMIWalks NH volunteers, and speakers, to folks who testify at legislative hearings, participate in committees, and cover resource tables at events around the state -

THANK YOU!

All NAMI NH volunteers are valued and serve integral roles in the NAMI NH family. Thank you to each and every volunteer for joining us in our mission to improve the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.

Kenneth Norton, LICSW

Executive Director

Online Support & Resources

The NAMI NH office is closed to the public and in-person support group meetings and trainings are suspended through May 4th. However, staff members continue their work remotely, and with the exceptional assistance of NAMI NH volunteers, most support groups and other activities have moved online. Please reach out, and take good care.

Crisis Support - if you, or someone you know, is struggling emotionally - you are not alone.

Help will always be available 24/7.-lines/

NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line continues to operate!

To connect with support, message info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 (press 4).

Get the latest COVID-19 updates and resources from NAMI NH and our partners.

Connect with your local support group leader to learn about online meeting options.

Learn about NAMI NH''s Facebook groups.

Public Policy Update

Congress'' missing COVID-19 response: Mental health

COVID-19 isn''t just affecting our physical health and daily life - it''s affecting our mental health. Whether it''s lack of access to mental health treatment, loneliness and depression from isolation, stress and anxiety from the danger of contagion, grief from losses, or despair from losing employment and trying to make ends meet, our country is in pain.

Nearly half of Americans report that COVID-19 has had a negative impact on their mental health.

Yet, despite trillions of dollars being spent to respond to this pandemic, little has gone to address the mental health emergency arising from this crisis.

This is unacceptable.

Our Congressional leaders need to step up and act to help people with mental health conditions and every single person trying to cope with uncertainty, isolation and grief.

Demand for mental health services has never been higher, but most mental health providers say they have been forced to cut back on their operations. Meanwhile, there has been an 891% jump in calls to the federal government''s crisis hotline.

We need Congress to provide funds to keep mental health providers afloat. Congress also needs to invest in crisis services, peer supports and other services to meet growing community mental health needs. And we need Congress to respond to the spread of this virus in our criminal justice system, which houses far too many people with mental illness.

We need Congress to act, and act quickly. Reach out to your members of Congress and tell them that mental health is still missing from our nation''s response to COVID-19.

Take action now.

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Activity at NH Legislature Suspended

The NH Legislature has currently suspended activity due to COVID-19.

Click here to see NAMI NH''s 2020 legislative priorities, read our testimony, track all of the mental health and suicide prevention bills we''re following this session, sign up for public policy alerts, and more. Questions? Don''t hesitate to contact us: advocacy@NAMINH.org.

NAMI NH Advocacy Sponsor:

General Federation of Women''s Clubs

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The General Federation of Women''s Clubs made a $10,000 donation to support NAMI NH''s advocacy efforts. This donation is part of the President''s Project to Nurture Good Mental Health Through Awareness, and made possible through the Candia Community Woman''s Club and their "In the Bag" fundraising. Throughout the next year, clubs around the state will work with NAMI NH to raise awareness and funds.

In the News

Local community mental health centers requesting additional money amid COVID-19 crisis

My Turn: New Hampshire Hospital steps up to respond to COVID-19

Organizations issue insurance guide

As pandemic time extends, so does use of telehealth

Coronavirus is causing a mental health crisis. Here''s how to fight it.

When Mental Distress Comes Home

Health Care Workers Fighting Pandemic Worry for Their Own Mental Health

Sleep, sunlight and self-care: A psychiatrist''s advice for pandemic mental health

Today in NH Emergency Departments...

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12 adults (11 in EDs, 1 in a correctional facility)

and 0 children

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are waiting for psychiatric hospital care.

NAMI New Hampshire can connect those impacted by long ED waits with information, resources and support. Click here to learn more.

NAMI NH continues to make the ED boarding crisis a top priority of advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide.

Suicide Prevention & Survivors of Suicide Loss

.Welcome Kelley Caravona!

NAMI NH welcomes Kelley Caravona (formerly Kelley Gaspa) as the Suicide Prevention Coordinator overseeing the five-year, SAMHSA-funded (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Garrett Lee Smith (GLS) Youth Suicide grant. In this role, Kelley is responsible for working with project partners to implement the grant activities, including building statewide and regional capacity through evidence-based strategies to reduce risk of suicide in youth up to the age of 24.

Kelley comes to NAMI NH with great passion and extensive experience in prevention and public health, having recently been the Assistant Director at Partnership for Public Health in the Winnipesaukee Public Health Region. During her time there, she was responsible for implementing a prior GLS grant in the region as part of broader prevention activities.

"I''m very excited join the team at NAMI NH as the Suicide Prevention Coordinator for the GLS NH Nexus Project 2.0.," says Kelley. "Having been part of a GLS grant in the Winnipesaukee Public Health Region, I was able to see the positive impact of these interventions in action. I look forward to being part of educating and empowering communities in New Hampshire to recognize and respond to suicide risk competently and confidently."

NAMI NH''s Ken Norton and Elaine de Mello Present at AAS20

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the American Association of Suicidology moved their annual international conference online this month. Featured virtual presenters included NAMI NH Executive Director Ken Norton and Director of Suicide Prevention Services Elaine de Mello. AAS20 brought a lens of health equity to the issues around suicide prevention.

Learn more about the American Association of Suicidology.

.Thank You & Best Wishes to Debbie Baird

NAMI NH wishes to thank Debbie Baird for her many years as an employee of NAMI NH. Debbie recently left her position as a Community Support and Education Specialist. During her time here, Deb worked to improve suicide prevention efforts in the state by provide training in suicide prevention and postvention and working with Regional Public Health Networks and others around the state. She also played a lead role in strengthening the loss survivor network including an expansion of suicide loss survivor support groups in NH. Many people benefited from her dedication to suicide prevention and those affected by suicide loss. We are grateful for her commitment to this field and wish her the best for the future.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you *or someone you know* is struggling emotionally, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 - please reach out for support:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ''1-800-273-TALK (8255)''

Veterans Crisis Line | Crisis Text Line

Trans Lifeline | Disaster Distress Helpline

The Trevor Project | LGBT National Help Center

Recognize the Warning Signs for Suicide to Save Lives.

NH Support Groups for Survivors of Suicide Loss

For additional resources, visit NAMI New Hampshire''s Connect Suicide Prevention Program.

Upcoming with NAMI NH

.NAMI NH April ONLINE Speaker Series

Life Interrupted with Shelley Lathrop (4/30)

RSVP for meeting link.

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For more information, contact NAMI NH''s Info & Resource Line at 1-800-242-6264 (press 4) or info@NAMINH.org.

New ONLINE Weekly Family Support Group

To register, email Deb at NAMINHVirtual@gmail.com and include:

tel. # | zip code | relationship/age of your family member/friend of primary concern

.Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire

The NAMI NH family is having a blast sharing a weekly storytime video for kids of all ages. Click below to watch the latest episodes of Storytime with NAMI New Hampshire, and hop over to our Facebook page each Friday for a new story. You can watch all episodes anytime on our YouTube playlist.

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Are You a Parent or Caregiver of a School-Aged Child?

If so, we are looking for your help!

The Bureau of Student Wellness at the New Hampshire Department of Education has tapped NAMI NH to connect with parents and caregivers to find out about the current engagement opportunities within your child''s school, challenges to engaging with the school, and suggestions for improvement.

The information gathered will be reviewed by a team of family representatives and professionals to develop a plan which schools/parent & youth organizations will utilize to help them increase meaningful family & youth engagement opportunities and allow diverse leadership roles (co-creators, supporters, advocates, models) for family members to engage.

How can you help?

Complete this electronic survey which contains two demographic questions and five main questions about school engagement. Estimated time to complete the survey is under 10 minutes.

Your answers will be held in strict confidence and will be used only for the purposes of this study. The results will be reported in aggregate form only and cannot be identified individually.

Questions? Please contact Sandy Alonzo at 603-545-2014 or salonzo@NAMINH.org.

ONLINE Live

Parent & Caregiver Group Monthly on 2nd Wed.

Online Live Parent & Caregiver Group
2nd Wednesday each month

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

For more information: rclemelin@metrocast.net

See a full listing of Parent & Caregiver Groups throughout NH.

Veteran & Military Families

Registration OPEN for NAMI Homefront Online!

NAMI Homefront is a free class designed to address the unique needs of family, caregivers and friends of those who have served or are currently serving our country.

NAMI Homefront Online classes meet weekly in a virtual classroom, so participants experience the same level of interaction and learning as traditional in-person classes.

Click for more information and to register.

Resources

.4-Week Tele-Yoga from IAGB, NIMHANS, and NICY

IAGB and the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) and its Integrated Centre for Yoga (NICY) located in Bangalore, India are collaborating to bring you a 4-week online yoga course (tele-yoga). This program is based on the initiative of NH State Representative Mrs. Latha Mangipudi and Mr. Krishna Mangipudi.

The Yoga sessions are specifically designed to help the feeling of well-being during this stressful time. This free online live yoga course will start from Monday, April 27th and it is planned for 5 days a week, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7.30 AM. The course will be presented by trained professionals who have had an extensive experience in the practice of Yoga. Please visit the website for more information.

Click to register to attend the Yoga course.

.NAMI NH Webinar Highlight:

Effective Crisis Planning: What Families Need to Know

A step-by-step guide for people with loved ones with mental illness to create a crisis plan. With details of what to include in the plan and which actions to take, this webinar offers a template for those in need.

NAMI NH''s Online Groups

NAMI New Hampshire offers four unique online groups - they''re places to find peer support, share experiences, offer encouragement, and pass along resources. Click each link below to learn more and request membership.

Don''t hesitate to contact info@NAMINH.org or call 1-800-242-6264 with any questions.

Life Under Construction

Family and Friends of Adult Loved Ones with Mental Illness

Parents and Loved Ones of Children with Social/Emotional Challenges

NH Veterans and Military Families Supporting Each Other

Development News

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GFWC NH Evening of Unity to Benefit NAMI New Hampshire

Thank you, GFWC-NH!

Evening of Unity

Thank you to the GFWC New Hampshire for hosting a wonderful virtual Evening of Unity on April 24, 2020 to benefit NAMI NH. We are so grateful for this simply amazing group of women. Their first Evening of Unity had to go virtual, but still raised over $3,700 for programs and services to benefit Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. In addition to being fabulous fundraisers, they are passionate advocates and have gone above and beyond to raise awareness of mental illness and suicide. As President Anne Engelhardt said during the event, "We care and we do something about it." It is this spirit upon which NAMI NH was founded, by Peggy Straw and other hurting families who were determined to raise awareness and bring hope to others. It has been a joy working with the GFWC-NH over the past two years, and we are grateful for their generous and steadfast support.

The evening featured In Our Own Voice speaker Cara Carter, who shared her moving and inspiring journey to recovery and hope. Chief Justice John Broderick received the first Unity Award, presented to an individual who advocates, educates, volunteers, and makes an impact in their community. Congratulations to Judge Broderick on this honor, and for his tireless efforts to change the perception of mental illness and inspire so many in New Hampshire and beyond with his family''s story of hope.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

18th Annual NAMIWalks NH

Sunday, October 4, 2020

Concord, NH

Make plans to join us at New Hampshire''s largest mental health and suicide prevention event!

Family-friendly, dog-friendly, free, and FUN - we look forward to seeing you at the 18th Annual NAMIWalks NH!

Walk Committee meetings are underway! If you''re interested in volunteering to help plan another record-breaking NAMIWalks NH, please contact Brittany Porter.

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Happy Birthday Facebook Fundraisers & Thank You!

NAMI NH likes to recognize our supporters who have hosted Facebook fundraisers for NAMI New Hampshire''s programs and services. In Q1 of 2020, twenty people set up birthday fundraisers on Facebook. Because of you, and the many generous donors who gave in your honor, Granite Staters will continue to receive help and hope.

It''s easy to get in on the Facebook fundraising fun - and, as an added bonus, there are no fees from Facebook to either the donor or to NAMI NH from these fundraisers!

If you have questions or need guidance, please contact us at development@naminh.org.

Thank you and happy birthday to the kind and generous folks who chose to share their Facebook fundraiser contributions with NAMI NH. We are honored to do this work alongside you and are grateful for your steadfast support.

Make an Impact

Did you know there are a variety of ways you can make a transformational gift to NAMI New Hampshire?

Join the NAMI New Hampshire Legacy Circle by including us in your estate planning, giving a lasting gift to help us continue providing support, education, and advocacy well into the future.

Consider giving a gift of stock and potentially avoid paying capital gains tax. Click here to learn more about the tax benefits of donating stock to a charity. Instructions for transferring a gift of stock to NAMI NH are available here.

If you are age 72 or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions each year from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket, and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. Making a pre-tax charitable donation directly to NAMI NH can eliminate or reduce the impact of this income.

Stacking your gift may help you exceed the new standard deduction. This method of giving allows you to combine several years of charitable contributions in a single year, maximizing your potential tax benefit.

NAMI New Hampshire was recently honored with a Nonprofit Impact Award from the NH Center for Nonprofits. As the former Executive Director of NAMI NH and a father of a daughter with mental illness, one might think I''m biased when I say that the award was definitely well deserved. However, it only confirmed our belief that regularly giving to NAMI NH through our retirement program and adding NAMI NH as a beneficiary into our will is the right thing to do. With our gifts, and those of others, NAMI NH can continue to be good stewards of its resources, putting them to work for individuals and families affected by mental illness and suicide. Giving is an honor, especially when we see that what NAMI NH does works. Yet, they have more to do. Together, our collective resources ensure NH has an accessible, quality mental health and suicide prevention delivery system for Granite Staters.

~ Michael and Saundy Cohen

For more information, or to discuss additional opportunities, please contact Kristen or call 603-225-5359 x350. Sample bequest language is available on our website.

NAMI NH Corporate Sponsor Partners

NAMI New Hampshire is grateful to our Corporate Sponsors and Members for their steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide. #hopestartswithyou

For information on Corporate Sponsorship, or to discuss additional partnership opportunities, contact Kristen Welch, CFRE, Director of Development, at kwelch@NAMINH.org or 603.235.5359 x350.

Visit Our Website

Donate to NAMI NH

The preparation of this newsletter was financed under an agreement with the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, with funds provided in part or in whole by the State of New Hampshire and/or the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

NAMI NH | 85 N. State St. | 603.225.5359 | info@NAMINH.org | www.NAMINH.org

NAMI NH, 85 North State Street, Concord, NH 03301

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NAMI NH ENews | July 31, 2020