Friends of NAMI Central Iowa,  

482 Students, staff, community and family members heard us present the NAMI Ending the Silence presentation between July2018 through June 2019.  One year later . . . July 2019 through June 2020 we reached 1,567 students, staff, community and family members.

1,200  individuals shared their impression about this program by completing a survey.  

545 of those surveyed were students / youth ages 13 and older.  

Did we make an impact?  

84.04% of the students now feel comfortable talking about mental illness as a result of the Ending the Silence presentation.  95.96% of the students would recommend the Ending the Silence program to others.  96.51% of the students reported learning something new as a result of the Ending the Silence presentation.  100% of the students (as a result of this presentation) now know how to help themselves, a friend, a student or a family member if they notice any of the warning signs.  

545 out 545 students now know signs of mental illness

545 out 545 students now know warning signs of suicide

545 out 545 students now know how to help

100%

These outcomes are the reason our volunteer presenters step out of their comfort zone, talk about a personal illness that carries so much stigma, and authentically shares their journey with mental illness.  BRAVE, COURAGEOUS and BOLD are words that describe these volunteers.  IMPACTFUL, PERSONAL and LIFE-CHANGING are words that describe the message.  

100%

There is a great need to reach more students.

There is a great need to reach MORE families, MORE staff, and MORE members of our communities.  When the Ending the Silence message is presented, lives are changed, and help becomes known!  

100%

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.  If there is any way that YOU can help NAMI Central Iowa connect to schools, to youth groups, to civic organizations, to clubs where youth, parents, caregivers and staff gather, please help.  If you feel a call to help present Ending the Silence, now is the time to sign up to become a presenter (truly, if you can read a power-point, you can do this).  Two free trainings are scheduled this month! Choose the date that best works for you.   

If you have questions about Ending the Silence or other public educational presentations NAMI Central Iowa offers, we are just a phone call or email away.  Please know that together we make a difference.  

100% committed to sharing help and sharing hope,   

Angela Tharp 

UPCOMING VIRTUAL TRAININGS FOR YOU!  

SUPPORT:

NAMI Family Support Group Facilitator Training: Sept. 19-20  |  Register by Sept. 4

EDUCATE:  

NAMI Peer-to-Peer Teachers Training | October 24-25  | Register by Oct. 5

NAMI Family-to-Family Teachers Training | Oct. 31-Nov. 1  | Register by Oct. 5

ADVOCATE: 

NAMI Ending the Silence Presenter Training: 10:30a-12:30p September 10  |  Register by Sept. 5  

NAMI Ending the Silence Presenter Training : 2 - 4pm Sept. 26 | Register by Sept. 20

NAMI In Our Own Voice Presenter Training:  TBD October | Register ASAP

NAMI WALKS:  October 10th | REGISTER ASAP 

NOW SHOWING:  SUICIDE THE RIPPLE EFFECT 

Sunday, September 27,  1 PM

Wednesday, September 30, 6:30 PM

Capitol II Theatre, 116 1st St. N., Newton, IA

FREE mental health resource gift bags given to all attendees

Q&A discussion on the topic will follow the film

The refreshment stand will be OPEN!  

Reserve your tickets and track our status at https://www.capitol2.com/covidseatchoice

For more info contact: Angela Tharp – angela@namicentraliowa.org / (515)292.9400

This event will also serve as fundraiser for NAMI Central Iowa www.namicentraliowa.org

THANK YOU TO OUR SUICIDE THE RIPPLE EFFECT SPONSORS

SAVE THE DATE & SUPPORT A GREAT CAUSE! 

Every year, amazing individuals from NAMI Central Iowa join thousands at the NAMIWalks.  More than ever, this annual fundraising event is key to supporting mental health programming across Iowa.  More than ever, we must unite to be the voice for the voiceless. This year will be a bit different as you will walk your way, in your own space, yet, you will be walking with hundreds of thousands of others supporting NAMI's across the USA!  

FUNDRAISING KITS AVAILABLE . . . contact us today! 

Candidates' Forum on Disability Issues

Wednesday, September 16, at 6:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL

The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Central Iowa (NAMI-CI) and The Arc of Story County are both non-profit agencies providing support, information, and advocacy.  The Arc supports individuals and families affected by developmental and intellectual disabilities.  NAMI-CI works with individuals and families affected by mental illness. Our members are active in legislative issues on a local, state and national level.  We feel that elected officials need to have an understanding of their constituents, and we have found this format to provide a good means for communicating ideas and information.

Those attending (as of 8/25/2020): 
Theresa Greenfield
Senator Joni Ernst
Suzanne Herzog 
Rick Stewart
J.D. Scholten
Cindy Oppedal Paschen
Beth Wessel-Kroeschell
Ross Wilburn
Robert Bacon
Representative Dave Deyoe
Latifahl Faisal for Story County
 Steve O'Rourke-Story County Supervisor
Lisa Heddens

NAMI CI Members - please submit your questions for the candidates to info@namicentraliowa.org prior to September 10

MEET SHAINA SCHURKE, RN  

Hi Everyone!

My name is Shaina Schurke and I am a 32-year-old mother of 3 amazing and bright children. I am also a Registered Nurse (RN) currently in the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (BSN) program at Iowa State University. I will be graduating this fall 2020. Thus far, I have reached my career goals of earning my RN and now currently, my BSN. I plan to work in Ames and obtain 5 years of experience in a hospital, and then apply to graduate school and earn my Nurse Practitioner degree.

I chose to work with NAMI because I believe in educating and advocating for those who are living with a mental illness. Nearly 1 in 5 US adults live with a mental illness (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019). There  are people who live with untreated mental illness because of lack of education and awareness. Those who are living in the dark with their mental illness may not be able to live their best life because of the misconceptions that surround a diagnosis. Some people believe that to have a mental illness means they are damaged, weak, or that there is no hope.

Education, support and advocating for those who live with a mental illness is the best way to minimize any stigmas, shame or misconceptions. With NAMI I feel that I am able to share my perspective as a nurse who lives with a mental illness. I have had my own misconceptions about mental illness and can relate to those who experience this. Through my education, I have learned that mental illness is common, it is manageable with treatment, and it is not forever.

Shaina Schurke, RN- Iowa State University BSN Student 

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Hi there! I'm Amy Hutchinson. Originally a native of northwest Iowa, I moved to central Iowa in 2001. I live in Iowa Falls with my husband and two teenage children. I work at Iowa Falls-Alden High School as the student success coach where my goal is to equip and empower teens and provide opportunities for social-emotional education.  Not only am I passionate about education, I'm also passionate about helping others overcome obstacles and breaking the stigma associated with mental illness. 

After receiving my mental health diagnosis three years ago, I felt fearful and alone. As a professional, I struggled to find a confidential support system that I so badly needed. After finding the right balance with medication and therapy, I eventually began to thrive. I realized that there should be no shame in my diagnosis or my story, and I want others to share in that realization. In order to provide a supportive safe space for professionals to discuss their mental health conditions, struggles, and successes, I have partnered with NAMI Central Iowa to co-lead a NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group for Working Professionals. I am so grateful for the people who are already taking part in this community-building opportunity.

CHALLENGE:  

1. Click the I WALK BECAUSE…

2. PRINT

3. FILL OUT  WHY YOU WALK 

4.  POST YOUR PHOTO or VIDEO on our Facebook or Instagram page

COVID 19 can cause stress and anxiety in anyone but might amplify the symptoms in those who live with diagnosed anxiety. During these times of hypervigilance, it is important to stay informed and aware of the facts about COVID 19 and what we can do to stay safe and healthy.

Sources that can cause anxiety to increase are social media platforms. Social media can create channels of disinformation, increased feelings of fear and negativity which can ultimately worsen symptoms of anxiety and stress.

How do we know what is disinformation?

One way that we can stay informed with accurate information about COVID 19 is to check the source of the story. If the story is from a source that you have never heard of, look into it! Does the website end in a weird name? If it does, chances are it is fake news. Another question you can ask is whether or not the person giving information is an expert on the subject. If this person is not an expert on the subject, then chances are it’s not accurate information. Avoid conspiracy theory thinking about mainstream media. Not ALL mainstream media is fake. Look the story up on Snopes.com and see if this is a story that has been verified as real or fake.

In the end, a good rule of thumb is to develop a critical lens when reading a news story on social media. Stop obsessing over COVID 19 news and take a break from social media once in a while.

A second way we can care for ourselves is to stay in contact with our loved ones and friends. This doesn’t mean to break social distancing rules and throw a house party! This means to be creative in our contact and communication, and still respect social distancing. If you are able to, set up virtual visits every week with your family on the same day. Visit loved ones in an outside setting and maintain that 6 feet distance. Wear a mask when going to a friend’s house and ask your friend to wear one too. Neglecting that social connection that humans need can lead to feeling isolated and lonely.

Lastly, stick to a normal routine. There may be some things you have to cut out or adjust because of COVID 19 but try to maintain that normalcy for your own sanity and mental health. If you have children, this is especially important. Wake up and go to bed around the same time every day, eat healthy and drink plenty of water to maintain a healthy immune system. Avoid eating processed and high sugar foods, limit alcohol intake and remember to exercise daily.

Please seek professional help if you feel that your anxiety is too much to bear or has increased significantly since COVID 19. Remember we are all in this together!

Shaina Schurke, RN-BSN Student at Iowa State University 

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Be sure to open this newsletter completely!  

Click “VIEW ENTIRE MESSAGE” at the bottom of this email

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CLICK HERE to be directed to our newsletter on our website! 

Strength Over Silence

Stories Of Courage, Culture and Community

In this ongoing docuseries, NAMI highlights perspectives on mental health across backgrounds and communities. Through candid and courageous stories of lived experience, these mental health champions share their resilience and recovery, emphasizing the importance of culture and identity in the mental health movement. 

Tackling Mental Health Stigma

The latest installment features NAMI Ambassador Chris Hubbard, offensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns. Hubbard takes us on a journey back to his hometown of Columbus, Georgia, where he shares the unique challenges of playing competitive sports, encourages young athletes to take care of their mental health and relays the importance of asking for help.  

Wednesday | Sept. 2 | Hardin Co. Working Professionals Connections Support Group | Iowa Falls\Alden HS Library 

Thursday | Sept. 3 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM 

Thursday | September 3 | 7-8:30pm | Story County Family Support Group resumes

Saturday | Sept. 5 | NO NAMI CONNECTIONS DUE TO LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Monday | Sept. 7 | NO NAMI CONNECTIONS DUE TO LABOR DAY WEEKEND 

Wednesday | Sept. 9 | NAMI CI Board of Directors Meeting | 6pm 

NAMI Ending the Silence Training | Sept. 10 | 10:30a-12:30p | Register by Sept. 5 

Thursday | Sept. 10 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM 

Saturday | Sept. 12 | 5:15 - 6:45pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

NAMI Connection Support Group Facilitator Training: Sept. 12-13 | Registration Closed

Monday | Sept. 14 | 4:30-6pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

Monday | September 14 | Story County Mental Health Expo | Click for info

Tuesday | Sept.15 | 6:30-8pm | Hardin County Family Support Group | Iowa Falls 

Wednesday | September 16 | Story County Candidates Forum on Disability Issues | VIRTUAL | 6:30pm | REGISTER HERE 

Wednesday | Sept. 16 | Hardin Co. Working Professionals Connections Support Group | Iowa Falls\Alden HS Library 

Thursday | September 17 | 7-8:30pm | Story County Family Support Group 

Saturday | Sept. 19 | 5:15 - 6:45pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM 

Monday | Sept. 21 | 4:30-6pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

Thursday | Sept. 24 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

NAMI Ending the Silence Training | Sept. 26 | 2-4pm | Register by Sept. 20

Saturday | Sept. 26 | 5:15 - 6:45pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

Sunday | Sept. 27 | 1 - 3 pm | SUICIDE THE RIPPLE EFFECT | Capitol II Theatre | Newton | Get your tickets NOW 

Monday | Sept. 28 | 4:30-6pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Wed. | Sept. 30 | 6:30-8:30pm | SUICIDE THE RIPPLE EFFECT | Capitol II Theatre | Newton | Get your  tickets NOW 

Thursday | Oct. 1 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Thursday | Oct. 1 | 7-8:30pm | Story County Family Support Group 

Saturday | Oct. 3 | 5:15 - 6:45pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

Monday | Oct. 5 | 4:30-6pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Wednesday | Oct. 7 | Hardin Co. Working Professionals Connections Support Group | Iowa Falls\Alden HS Library 

Thursday | Oct. 8 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Saturday | October 10  | NAMIWalks | Click here for more info or to donate 

NAMI Peer-to-Peer Teacher VIRTUAL Training October 24-25  | Register by Oct. 5

NAMI Family-to-Family Teacher Training Oct. 31-Nov.1 | Register by Oct. 5

Monday | Oct.12  | 4:30-6pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Thursday | Oct. 15 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Thursday | Oct. 15 | 7-8:30pm | Story County Family Support Group 

Saturday | Oct. 17 | 5:15 - 6:45pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

Monday | Oct. 19 | 4:30-6pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Tuesday | Oct. 20 | 6:30-8pm | Hardin County Family Support Group | Iowa Falls 

Wednesday | Oct. 21 | Hardin Co. Working Professionals Connections Support Group | Iowa Falls\Alden HS Library 

Thursday | Oct. 22 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Saturday | Oct. 24 | 5:15 - 6:45pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

Monday | Oct. 26 | 4:30-6pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Thursday | Oct. 29 | 2-3:30pm | NAMI Connections @ NAMI CI and via ZOOM

Saturday | Oct. 31 | 5:15 - 6:45pm | NAMI Connections via ZOOM

NAMI Central Iowa Wellness Center | Open Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10:30am - 4:30pm 

NAMI Central Iowa Wellness Center | Open Monday & Wednesday Noon - 4:30pm

Intensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation (IPR) meets Monday & Wednesday 9a-Noon 

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or call 911 immediately.

Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

Every year thousands of individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family members to navigate the tragedy of loss. In many cases, friends and families affected by a suicide loss (often called “suicide loss survivors”) are left in the dark. Too often the feelings of shame and stigma prevent them from talking openly.

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 is here to help.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Every membership matters at the local, state and national level.  

Click on the 2020 MEMBERSHIP / DONATION FORM to 

read about your member benefits and why MEMBERSHIP MATTERS! 

Annual Memberships begin at $5 per person! 

THANK YOU TO OUR WALK SPONSORS

NAMI CENTRAL IOWA NEWSLETTER

The NAMI-CI Newsletter is e-published monthly printed as requested by NAMI Central Iowa. NAMI-CI is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Our mission is to provide them with support, education, and advocacy.  NAMICI is a United Way partner agency and is an affiliate of NAMI Iowa and NAMI, National. To make changes to your contact information, to receive your newsletter by email/mail, or if you no longer wish to receive the NAMI-CI newsletter you may unsubscribe below.  

SUPPORT US:  NAMI Central Iowa is a charity registered with Amazon Smile and the Hy-Vee Reusable Bag Giving Program.  NAMI Central Iowa is a Partner Agency of the United Way of Story County.  NAMI Central Iowa's Educational Endowment is with the Story County Community Foundation.  (Click on any of the names listed to learn more!) 

info@namicentraliowa.org    |    515.292.9400    |    www.namicentraliowa.org