Sarita Edwards’ Post

We are excited to announce the official launch of our new mental health course Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA). This 8-hour public education program equips participants with the knowledge to identify unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health issues in adolescents. Living with a rare diagnosis can significantly strain and stress patients and their caregivers, and siblings are often impacted as parents tend to dedicate more time to the child with a disability. YMHFA emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs and symptoms of potential mental health challenges and provides essential skills for early intervention. This program is designed for adults who regularly interact with adolescents and transition-age youth, ages 12-18, to help support and guide them during mental health challenges or crises. Our next course is scheduled for September 2024! Learn more at https://buff.ly/3zRIuZs

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month! We recognize the unique challenges faced by minority communities in accessing mental health care and the importance of culturally competent mental health services. Mental health knows no boundaries, and everyone deserves access to the support they need. Join us in breaking the stigma, raising awareness, and working toward a future where mental health care is accessible and inclusive for all. Learn about our efforts at https://buff.ly/41oqUVV #MinorityMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness

Our Peer 2 Peer program shared the following tips and activities with our peer families. We thought you might enjoy them too! Tips for 1:1 Conversations Shared Journaling: Start a shared journaling activity with your family. Each week, take turns writing about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This practice not only helps in expressing emotions but also deepens your connection as you learn more about each other’s thoughts and personal feelings. Tips for Caregivers and Couples Date Nights at Home: Schedule regular date nights at home. Whether it’s watching a movie, cooking a meal together, or simply talking without distractions, dedicating time to nurture your relationship is crucial to staying connected. Tips for Siblings Creative Expression: Let siblings choose an activity like painting, drawing, or another fun idea. Create a safe space for them to express their feelings through art and creative play. Add a little extra fun by allowing them to invite a friend! A Community of Support: Additional Tip Virtual/In-person Coffee Chats: Organize informal virtual coffee chats where community members can connect in a relaxed setting. These chats offer an opportunity for casual conversation and building friendships. These tips and activities aim to enhance peer support within each category, promoting self-care, mental health, and community building. Feel free to customize them to better suit your needs and goals! Visit https://buff.ly/3slcs4e to learn more!

There's still time to register for the 2024 LEAP into Advocacy Virtual Summit, happening tomorrow, Thursday, June 27, 10am CST. Learn more about the event and speakers at https://buff.ly/44e84ln. Register at https://buff.ly/3VPUqDo We hope to see you there!

We're one week away from our annual LEAP into Advocacy Virtual Summit! The theme this year is Innovation and Collaboration: Charting the Path Forward for Rare Disease Advocacy. Register today https://buff.ly/3VPUqDo Learn more about the summit and view the agenda https://buff.ly/4abn9XP Meet the speakers https://buff.ly/3RD5Jwe

Today and every day, we honor Dads and your incredible commitment to your children’s health and happiness. Thank you for your tireless advocacy and for making a difference in the lives of those you love. We see you! Happy Father's Day!

I am grateful to have been part of the recent Health Equity Summit hosted by the UAH College of Nursing. It was inspiring to engage in conversations with community stakeholders dedicated to driving change and improving health care for all. Together, we focused on enhancing accessibility, adoption, and affordability of health care by promoting health literacy and healthy behaviors. I am very excited to continue this journey! Together, we can advance health equity in Alabama.

The LEAP into Advocacy Virtual Summit brings together rare disease patients, caregivers, advocates, healthcare professionals, researchers, partners, and allies to discuss the latest rare disease innovations, patient advocacy, public policy, and actionable strategies to accelerate change. This event is approved for 3 CEUs. Learn more and register at https://buff.ly/44e84ln

We take a moment to honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage and dedication allow us to live in freedom, and their legacy inspires us to continue our mission with renewed purpose and determination. Thank you! ❤️

Me, the Hub, and the group that calls me Mom! Happy Mother's Day! ❤️