This article is by an instructor who is in recovery from bipolar disorder and substance abuse. The instructor has a history of trauma and was homeless for periods during her transition age years. She has worked in the mental health field for eighteen years and is a National Yoga Alliance registered yoga teacher. Yoga was part […]
BioZen Smartphone App uses Biofeedback to Support Soldiers’ Mental Health
Biofeedback, a technique that uses electrical sensors to measure signals produced by the muscles, brain and other body parts, is often used to treat physical and psychological ailments. Now, a smartphone app is helping members of the military take advantage of biofeedback to combat stress. BioZen, available free for Android devices, works with six different […]
How Electronic Health Records Can Help Prevent Suicides
Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate immediate feedback to healthcare providers and offer ways to identify and track potentially suicidal patients. Using EHRs, with the involvement of primary care providers, in suicide assessment and prevention may significantly help identify suicidal patients who are not actively seeking mental health treatment and ultimately reduce overall suicide rates. Understanding […]
Using Telenovelas to Provide Health Education for Latinos
Objective: To raise awareness and knowledge about diseases, provide information about healthy lifestyles, and emphasize the availability of public health insurance programs. Description: The Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) partnered with Evolve Communications and the State’s most widely viewed Spanish language television station, Univision, to develop, produce and air “Encrucijada: Sin Salud no […]
Mental Health Outreach and Engagement at Fiestas and Cultural Events
Objective: Engaging with families where they naturally gather to commemorate special events to raise awareness of mental health. Description: As the community naturally comes together to mark special events and celebrate holidays, they present an opportunity that is organic. Outreach can be conducted in public places and at community events such as parades, parks, museums, and other […]
Faith-Based Outreach for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
Objective: Expansion of mental health and substance abuse services to Latinos. Description: Outreach on mental health and substance abuse services was done by peer specialists at places of worship in the community, often by local mental health agencies. Materials were available during Sunday church services and, depending on the congregation and its leadership, personnel were available to […]