ISSUE FOURTEEN | CENTERSTONE.ORG
A PUBLICATION OF CENTERSTONE
From Giving Up to Giving Back Meet Anna-Claire Daniels Unity Medical Clinic | Suicide Prevention | Mental Health and the Military
2
12
Cover Feature 2 From Giving Up to Giving Back Meet Anna-Claire Daniels
Health and Wellness 7 Sunny Months Bring Dark Times for Suicide Rates
14
8 Physician Spotlight 9 Foster Care: Changing Lives One Child at a Time 10 Philanthropy in Action 12 News and Notes
Features 14 Courage Beyond at Centerstone 15 Unity Medical Clinic 16 Dede Wallace Campus Grand Opening Scan these Quick Response codes to link directly with Centerstone.
Centerstone.org
facebook.com/Centerstone.org
twitter.com/Centerstone
youtube.com/CenterstoneVideos
ISSUE FOURTEEN
Editor in Chief Robert N. Vero, EdD Managing Editor David Schrader
Contributing Editors
Freya Potempa Karen H. Rhea, MD Jenny Carr Gwen Watts
Contributing Writers
Susan Gillpatrick Jeney Slusser Ian Skotte Natalie Stone Gino DeSalvatore
From the Editor in Chief
Graphic Design Michael Rivera Centerstone of Tennessee Board of Directors Mark Faulkner, Chair R. Parker Griffith, Vice Chair Albert Menefee III, Secretary Janet Ayers, Immediate Past Chair Kelly Crockett Crook Father Fred Dettwiller Vincent W. Durnan, Jr. Christa N. Holleman Orville Kronk Dana Oman Dr. Carmen Reagan Steve Saliba Joan Sivley Sperry Bell Stadler Jim Sweeten Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate Dr. Robert N. Vero, CEO
ABOUT CENTERSTONE Centerstone, a not-for-profit organization, has provided a wide range of mental health and addiction services to people of all ages for more than 55 years. Through more than 50 facilities and 160 partnership locations across Middle Tennessee, Centerstone serves nearly 50,000 children, adolescents, adults and seniors each year. Centerstone is accredited by CARF International and a member organization of the National Football League’s NFL Life Line. For more information about Centerstone, please call 888-291-4357 or visit www.centerstone.org 4,500-0614
Did you know that one of every five adult Americans experienced mental illness last year? That’s 43.7 million people. The heart of Centerstone’s mission is to prevent and cure mental illness and addiction, yet there is more to be done. Today we must begin transforming the way healthcare is delivered. As behavioral health providers we have treated you from the neck up, while primary care treated you from the neck down. We have referred you and encouraged you to seek the primary care and other medical specialty services you needed. That’s because we know a serious mental illness accompanied by a co-morbid health condition such as diabetes or cardiac disease shortens the lifespan by an average of 20-25 years. However, that connection is often overlooked. Here and now, Centerstone wants to be your “whole person” healthcare provider. To do that, we have teamed with Unity Physician Partners to create Unity Medical Clinic at several Centerstone locations. It’s an exciting integrated approach to healthcare for your mind and your body. Please see page 16 for an example of what your healthcare home can be. I also invite you to read the cover story about AnnaClaire Daniels. Her journey into addiction and the resulting encounter with Centerstone’s Intervention Services brings unforgettable meaning to the advice she shares today: “Never be afraid to ask for help.”
Robert N. Vero, EdD Chief Executive Officer
COVER FEATURE
from
givingup to
giving back Meet Anne-Claire Daniels Preparing to graduate with a degree in Social Work from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 28-year-old Anna-Claire Daniels has her mind set on moving forward. She speaks confidently about what’s next: a post-graduation certificate in Veterinary Social Work as well as certification in Trauma Treatment. But it wasn’t too long ago she was being treated for her own type of trauma, a serious addiction to opiates that would put her life in danger and require an emotional staged intervention. While it’s hard to imagine this petite young woman strung out and defiantly rejecting a room full of concerned friends and family, what happened was all too real, and Centerstone was there to help Daniels go from giving up to ultimately giving back. As an only child, Anna-Claire’s upbringing was defined by order. Her loving parents had their baby’s birth planned ten years in advance and encouraged hobbies. From ages four to thirteen she was a competitive gymnast, winning gold medals in the Junior Olympics and traveling beyond the Daniels family’s Oak Ridge home. Golf came next, her dad’s favorite sport and one she excelled at enough to earn a full-ride scholarship to Florida Atlantic University. continues on page 4 2
ISSUE FOURTEEN
CENTERSTONE.ORG
3
“
I was high all the time.
I was out of control, but I didn’t see it.”
“Growing up was okay. I had accomplishments, but it was a very set plan” Anna-Claire recalls. “There wasn’t a lot of time for me and what I wanted to do; I was given the agenda, but I was happy. I didn’t know any other way.” Another way of life crept in just after high school graduation. That summer Anna-Claire dated Jim,* a guy who used and sold marijuana. She didn’t partake at first, knowing the terms of her scholarship meant she could be drug tested any time by the NCAA. “I knew what he was doing wasn’t what I wanted to do with my future,” she says. “But I was rebelling. Dating him felt like getting to do what I wanted even though my parents didn’t agree. I thought when I moved 800 miles away the relationship would be done anyway, but it wasn’t. It became very unhealthy and abusive.” Hanging out with the Wrong People Anna-Claire’s boyfriend made several trips to visit that freshman year and would smoke weed with her roommate while she stayed clean. But upon returning to Tennessee for the summer Daniels gave the drug a fateful chance. “No one really pushed it on me. I was just hanging out with the wrong people—a lot of addicts doing the wrong thing,” she says. “Smoking weed felt like heaven at first. It was kind 4
of another chance for me to do what I wanted and a way to escape any problems in my life. But from there it just went downhill.” With the wheels of addiction turning, Anna-Claire went back to school for sophomore year. She smoked cigarettes and tried ecstasy pills while Jim—who had also moved to Florida—kept smoking pot. When a back injury got Daniels redshirted, anxiety and depression set in. She saw a therapist, rarely got out of bed and felt her relationship with Jim getting worse. Together, they decided to return to Oak Ridge for good. “My parents were really ticked off when I left the scholarship behind,” Anna-Claire says. “When I was little they could keep me in a shell and stop me from making decisions. I’d never had the chance to make a bad decision and correct it.” There was no shortage of bad decisions at this point. Living back in Tennessee with Jim and his dad, Daniels smoked marijuana regularly and added psychedelic mushrooms to the recreational drug mix. She got a job at a veterinary clinic and enrolled in the Agriculture program at UT, but neither of those things were her priority. “I was high all the time. All the time,” emphasizes AnnaClaire. “I smoked weed before and after class, like it was normal. If I wasn’t high, that felt weird. And I didn’t really feel out of control at the time. I was, but I didn’t see it.” * indicates name changed for privacy purposes
ISSUE FOURTEEN
Chaos Felt Normal
“
I just shoved
my life to the back of my
mind and didn’t think about it anymore.”
Although things would get worse, the first wakeup call for Anna-Claire began with a literal wakeup call. Still dating Jim, she dropped him off one night to meet two friends headed out for a high stakes drug deal. Back home she took more than enough Xanax tablets (another developing habit) and fell asleep. Hours later the phone rang. “His friends called asking for a ride,” she says. “When I showed up Jim wasn’t with them, and they wouldn’t say why. Then one of the guys had me stop the car, and he burned his shoes on the side of the road. That’s when I was like: What is going on?” The drug deal had gone bad. The two friends shot and killed the other two dealers. Jim, the lookout, escaped on foot but was caught that night. Anna-Claire reached out to her dad whose disappointment and fear confirmed her life was out of control. Together they went to the police. Daniels had to testify in court the same day her grandmother died. All three young men went to prison. Despite such chaos, this way of life now felt normal. She says her troubled relationships were like another addiction. And they would lead to one more ruthless addiction. Giving Up “I quit school when Jim went to jail,” she remembers. “I kept smoking weed and met another guy, Joseph,* who was fullblown addicted to opiates. The first time I tried them, that was it—a whole different euphoria but then straight-up physical addiction. Any kind of opiate—Roxicodone, Opana, Oxycontin—I did them every day and built up a resistance. I needed more and more to get the same effect.” The daily habit of crushing and snorting pills led Anna-Claire into isolation from the people who cared about her. She lived with Joseph in a relationship that was all about drugs. She dropped to 85 pounds, dealt pills
herself to make money, and only saw her parents when she needed to steal their cash. “I had no conscience left. You are controlled by the drugs at that point. I was doing things that could have gotten me locked up for a long time, but I did not care. All that mattered was the next high. It was a hell I did not know existed. I was living in a drug house where people would drive by and shoot into the windows because we had ripped them off. I just shoved my life to the back of my mind and didn’t think about it anymore.” A Ticket out of Hell Fortunately, someone was thinking about Anna-Claire’s life. Her mom and a family friend named Debbie contacted Centerstone to learn more about Intervention Services. The program involves a master’s-level interventionist bringing an addict’s loved ones together to clearly assess the situation. Then, with the right approach and information, they confront the individual and encourage him or her to accept the treatment needed for recovery. Debbie invited Anna-Claire to lunch at a hotel where family and friends, along with Centerstone interventionist Sheila Nickell, were waiting in a conference room. Upon seeing her parents, two best friends from childhood, and other close relatives, Daniels knew what was happening. “I said Nope, not doing it. I had to be somewhat helped into the room. Everyone cried and read letters they had written me. Sheila moderated the discussion, and I was given the chance to have treatment at one of three rehab centers across the country. The flights were set up and everything. But I had the worst attitude. I basically said: Forget this. Y’all don’t know what you’re talking about. All I do is smoke weed, and I will do that the rest of my life! I was in such denial. I didn’t have a car there, so I called a ride to come get me, then left and got high. continues on page 6 CENTERSTONE.ORG
5
cocaine to get kicked out of the program, moved back in with Joseph and took up an old habit. “I thought I could start smoking weed again without any problems, but it took me right back to pills—just like everyone told me it would. I got addicted worse than before but knew I didn’t want to live like this anymore. So I asked my parents for help this time.” It would take two more rounds of detox—one at a facility and another in her family’s care—and extensive outpatient treatment before Daniels would stay clean. She has not used drugs since September 25, 2011. Anna-Claire at her college graduation. Each family member shown was also at Daniels’ intervention years before.
An Intervention Is About Love Nickell remembers Anna-Claire’s as the most emotionallycharged intervention in her experience. But she wasn’t completely surprised at the initial response. “This was her first real confrontation with the problem, and she had a lot of anger to process,” says Sheila. “Soon enough she realized this was really about love. I always tell people taking part in an intervention to communicate love and compassion, but also to stop any enabling. That puts the power on the team. If we can get the addict to sit down in that room and have the first conversation, then we’ve got the process going. It’s a room full of people who love you; hear them out, and they’ll hear you out.” About a month after the intervention, Daniels knocked on her parents’ door and said, “I’m ready.” “The intervention through Centerstone was the first time I realized I could get out of the hell I was in,” she says. “Even though I was defensive in that moment and continued to do what I’d been doing, just knowing there was another option was a key turning point for me.” Within days of changing her mind, Anna-Claire was on a plane to Utah for a three-month inpatient rehab program followed by a stay at a women’s halfway house for continued recovery. But the struggle wasn’t over. Missing home, she used Family Resources Nancy Daniels, Anna-Claire’s mom, was overwhelmed by a lack of easy-to-find support resources for families touched by addiction. Out of their journey she developed an app—You Are Linked to Resources for Families of People with Substance Use Disorder—that quickly gathers local education and self-care information for families with someone in recovery. It is available online for Android and Apple devices. 6
ISSUE FOURTEEN
Giving Back With a clear mind and a clean slate, Anna-Claire is giving back now to those still caught in the world of addiction she escaped. Helping others is part of her healing, education and future work. Passionate about supporting other addicts, she is very active in a local 12-step group. For her studies abroad, Daniels traveled to Uganda to help coordinate the translation of alcohol and substance abuse literature into the Luo language. In years to come, she wants to train therapy dogs for social work involving PTSD sufferers and children in trauma. “They say service work keeps you clean—getting outside yourself and doing something for someone else. My counselor tells me, people at Centerstone will tell you, and I tell those who are just now getting clean: You have to do the work. It’s a daily deal. You don’t get clean by osmosis. You have to stay busy, do something positive, and have regular contact with a network of people who have what you want.” Anna-Claire Daniels saw the beginnings of that network through Centerstone’s Intervention Services and the family and friends who were willing to confront her addiction. “Surround yourself with those who love and who care, and never be afraid to ask for help,” she concludes. “My dad and I have a relationship like we never did before. My mom and I are friends again. I am close to my family in Tennessee and Georgia. I am able to be a friend again. I have a life again.” a
Centerstone’s Intervention Services help individuals in the throes of addiction face their destructive behaviors and recognize their impact on those around them. For more information, please call 615.714.9240.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
SUNNY MONTHS
DARKTIMES
BRING
FOR SUICIDE RATES
Suicide is a harsh reality that can affect anyone’s life. Suicide rates across a variety of populations have risen in the last few years, including suicide attempts by military service members, teens and Tennesseans in general. Even though this is a year-round epidemic, the brighter months of spring and summer bring with them an increase in suicide rates of 4% - 6% over the rest of the year. A cry for help can take many forms, including withdrawal from family or friends, loss of interest, drastic changes in behavior, easy agitation or substance abuse. Many myths exists surrounding suicide and the warning symptoms, but there is little truth in these. Common misconceptions include: Myth: “People who commit suicide don’t
warn others about it.” Fact: On average, eight out of ten people
who kill themselves give definite clues to their intentions, although some may be nonverbal or difficult to detect. Myth: “People who talk about suicide
are only trying to get attention but won’t really do it.” Fact: Few people commit suicide without first letting someone else know how they feel. Most seek out someone to rescue them. Over 70% who do threaten to carry out a suicide either make an attempt or complete the act. Myth: “Once someone’s emotional state improves, their risk of suicide goes away.”
Fact: The highest rate of suicide occurs within about three months of an apparent improvement in a severely depressed state. An improvement in emotional state doesn’t mean a lessened risk. Myth: “After a person has attempted suicide, they probably won’t try again.” Fact: People who have attempted suicide are very likely to try again. Approximately 80% of the people who die from suicide have made at least one previous attempt.
Most people who are suicidal don’t really want to end their lives – they just want to end their pain. The understanding, support and hope that you offer can be their most precious lifeline. Regardless of age, gender, race or socioeconomic status, suicide can easily affect us and the ones we love. It is crucial for us to be aware of the emotional state of those we care about, so we can recognize when to intervene before it is too late. Centerstone understands the urgency of suicide prevention. As a result, we have set an organization-wide goal of reducing suicides to zero among our clients, calling for a team effort from all employees and supporters. This plan includes using the Columbia Severity Suicide Rating Scale. The Columbia scale is an evidence based way to assess if a client is suicidal. While ambitious, our hope is that this initiative will help reduce the number of suicides by Centerstone patients each year, because one life lost is one life too many. a
Call to Action It is possible to help prevent the tragedy of suicide. If you are concerned that a loved one may be having suicidal thoughts—or you have been plagued with feelings of harming yourself— seek help. Centerstone’s Crisis Line offers 24-hour support (800-681-7444) as does the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-TALK). You can also reach us through our online Crisis Chat service at Centerstone.org/get-help-now.
• According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for all Americans. • Suicide is the second-leading cause of death within adults ages 24-34 and the thirdleading cause of death among youth ages 15-24, according to the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN). • Today, veterans die by suicide at more than double the rate of the civilian population. An average 22 veterans kill themselves each day – one every 65 minutes. • A survey from the CDC reflects that 1 in 12 high school students have attempted to take their own life.
CENTERSTONE.ORG
7
PHYSICIAN SPOTLIGHT
What is the most significant advancement you have witnessed in mental health since you began practicing?
Dr. Faisal Siddiqui, MD Dr. Faisal Siddiqui, “Dr. Sidd,” a native of Pakistan, has been a psychiatrist at Centerstone since 2008. He serves patients of all ages, splitting his time between Centerstone’s offices in Lewisburg, Hohenwald and the Ella Hayes Center in Nashville. Dr. Sidd earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degree from Dow Medical College in Karachi, Pakistan in 1987. After completing his internship, he served as Medical Officer in Karachi’s Sindh Government Hospital until 1991 when he transitioned into the Department of Psychiatry at the Civil Hospital in Karachi. While at Sindh, Dr. Sidd realized that many patients’ chronic physical illnesses had psychiatric roots. Individuals were put through unnecessary medical tests as doctors attempted to discover the cause of patients’ physical problems. “This is what pushed me toward psychiatry,” said Dr. Sidd. “I realized that this was my dream all along—to help people recover mentally as well as physically.” In 1996, Dr. Sidd moved to the United States and completed postgraduate training in psychiatry at Mt. Sinai University in New York, N.Y. He pursued his career in private practice and at Western State Hospital in Hopkinsville, Ky. Why do you choose to work at Centerstone? Unlike my work at the hospital, here I have the opportunity to establish trusting relationships with my patients and their families, and work closely with their community support specialists and therapists to provide the best possible care. It is very rewarding to see patients improve and be able to guide and help them. I enjoy working in the different outpatient offices of Centerstone. The issues people face in urban, suburban and rural areas are different, making my work very interesting. 8
ISSUE FOURTEEN
Vast improvements have been made in the medications we use to treat psychiatric illnesses. They are safer, more effective and have fewer side effects. In addition, we now have monthly injectable neuroleptics for patients with schizophrenia, which helps ensure patient compliance and decreases hospitalization. What future advances in the delivery of care excite you the most? I am very excited about the advent of personalized medicine, which allows us to identify genetic markers with a simple saliva test and choose the best medications and dosages for patients, especially those with difficultto-treat, resistant illnesses like depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Genetic markers show how a drug will affect the body and mind, enabling doctors to design optimal drug treatment plans for patients. Genetic markers help us minimize the time and cost of finding an effective treatment by eliminating the trial-and-error approach, which was so frustrating for doctors and patients alike. Tell me about your family. I really enjoy spending time with my wife, Hina, and our three children: Nabia, Arsal and Anzel. The simple things, like helping with homework, playing out in the yard, and bedtime routines bring me great pleasure. I even do some cooking while Hina is in class at MTSU. She graduated this spring and would like to become a dentist. Hina and I are like the two wheels of a cart—we support each other. What do you do in your spare time? Every two to three months I join a group of doctors to offer a free clinic at our religious center. We offer medical services and distribute food. What would people be surprised to learn about you? I am a very social person; I love parties! My wife is a very good cook and is always trying something new. Just about every weekend, we invite neighbors to our home. a
Foster Care: Changing Lives One Child at a Time by Gino DeSalvatore, Director of Residential and Academy Services at Centerstone
To any adult looking to make an exciting change in his or her life, how about changing a child’s life by becoming a foster parent? In my work at Centerstone, I’m often reminded of just how important it is to reclaim, re-educate and reintegrate foster care children back into their families and communities so they may, in due time, live a healthy and prosperous adult life. Childhood is a very tender time, one in which boys and girls need to feel loved, supported and cared for. We can all make a real and lasting difference – and change a life – by opening our hearts and homes to children in need. Foster parents can positively impact children of any age and set them on a path toward a bright future by following these three steps: Reclaim Foster parents can encourage a sense of belonging, mastery and generosity among youth. In essence, “reclaiming kids” means transitioning them from the streets, abusive situations or negative home environments to a place where there are supportive adults and positive influences. Teaching children about making good choices and empowering them by showing love and support can help them reclaim their lives and undo years – or even a lifetime – of emotional distress. Re-educate Foster parents also can help re-educate children by teaching them helpful conflict
resolution strategies, reinforcing good behavior and equipping them with healthy life skills. It is imperative that they unlearn bad habits from settings where drugs or violence were present. For example, by demonstrating that the use of words is encouraged rather than striking out at someone, foster parents help children learn to develop effective communication skills instead of drinking alcohol, using drugs or turning to violence to solve problems. Reintegrate Reintegration is the ultimate goal of the foster care system. It involves placing kids back into their school systems, communities and families so they can move on from their troubled pasts and lead healthy lives. Regardless of an individual’s background, we all have a desire to belong, to learn, to love and be loved, and to be a contributing member of society. Reintegration bridges the gap between a child’s past and present and is the key to a promising future. Foster parents don’t have to go the path alone. Centerstone can help teach individuals how to be effective at each of these steps and ensure they have the support they need to be the best influence on the children in their care. a For more information on how you can get involved and have a lasting impact on a child, call 615.604.9163 or email fostercare@centerstone.org website: centerstonefcs.org CENTERSTONE.ORG
9
PHILANTHROPY IN ACTION
Board of Directors, Ambassadors Circle Host Annual Dinner
Boat Parade Lights Up Percy Priest Lake for Children
Pictured: (l-r) David C. Guth, Jr. (Centerstone of America CEO); Dr. Bob Vero (Centerstone of Tennessee CEO); Debbie Cagle (Advantage Behavioral Health CEO); Michael Bailey (Unity Physician Partners Chairman/CEO)
Centerstone’s Board of Directors and Ambassadors Circle recently brought together community leaders, friends and guests to learn about the innovative strides Centerstone has taken toward integrated treatment of the mind and body. Hosted by Theresa and Albert Menefee at their home in Brentwood, guests enjoyed dinner by candlelight and an informative program that introduced Centerstone’s joint venture with Unity Physician Partners to create Unity Medical Clinic. Centerstone CEO Dr. Bob Vero discussed preventable physical ailments that contribute to the shortened lifespan of those with behavioral health disorders, who die an estimated 25 years earlier than those without such issues. Michael Bailey, President and CEO of Unity Medical Clinic, spoke about why his organization chose to partner with Centerstone after witnessing the continued passion from staff members and supporters for the overall wellbeing for clients. Marie Williams, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services’ Deputy Commissioner, also addressed those present about the state’s support of Centerstone’s integrated care initiatives. Several Unity Medical Clinic offices are now complete and operational within existing Centerstone of Tennessee locations, including ones in Nashville, Clarksville, Madison and Shelbyville as well as two Indiana facilities. Further expansion at other existing and newly constructed sites is also anticipated. 10
ISSUE FOURTEEN
Shipwreck Cove at Elm Hill Marina hosted its annual Harbor of Lights Boat Parade and named Centerstone as the charity event’s beneficiary. Cash donations were collected at the door, two wheelbarrows full of brand new toys were given and a lively auction of donated items riled up the crowd—all for a wonderful cause. All proceeds from the evening helped children enrolled in Centerstone’s Early Childhood Services have a very merry holiday season. By the end of the night, more than $7,000 in donations and gifts were collected. The parade’s theme, Light Up the Lake, added sparkle to the waters of Percy Priest Lake. Boats were decorated with lights, inflatable Santas, and even a Harley Davidson motorcycle, providing a show for all to enjoy.
Centerstone’s Ambassadors Circle works to advance our mission to prevent and cure mental illness and addiction and raise awareness of Centerstone’s programs and initiatives. Through a membership of local leaders and supporters, we encourage members to provide time, talent and resources to develop a network of active businesses, agencies and individuals. For more about Ambassadors Circle or Centerstone’s Healing Garden pavers (page 11) or to request or host an Ambassadors Circle program on a particular topic or in your area, contact Jeney Slusser at 615.460.4181 or jeney.slusser@centerstone.org.
Gray Goodies Bake Sale Benefits Centerstone
Help Centerstone Pave the Way for Future Healing Centerstone’s new Dede Wallace Campus outpatient facility (see page 16) includes a peaceful outdoor area for staff, patients and neighbors to enjoy. A winding walkway throughout the natural setting is outfitted with brick pavers that can be engraved to honor someone special in your life. The Centerstone of Tennessee Board of Directors generously purchased a paver for each Centerstone employee based in the state. Who can you pay tribute to with one of these enduring steps toward a better life? All proceeds from the engraved pavers go to fund the Centerstone mission. Please see the order form below. a
Pictured: (l) Choz Cunningham and his son enjoy their “Rainy Day Cupcakes” from bakeitinacake.com; (r) “Stormy Weather” vegan Earl Grey cake courtesy of Bagel Face Bakery
Sweet! The Depressed Cake Shop sale held in Nashville raised more than $800 for Centerstone. Locals gathered at The Stone Fox eatery to purchase specially made graycolored cakes, pastries and baked goods from nearby bakers and bakeries, raising awareness about depression and mental health issues. Why gray desserts? According to DepressedCakeShop.com, “Because the color represents what depression does: It coats a beautiful life in gray.” These charitable pop-up bake sales are now appearing all over the world from Los Angeles to London.
Help us build the Centerstone Healing Garden
!
q In Honor of
(check one)
q In Memory of
Loved One’s Name (20 characters) *If additional spacing is needed please contact Centerstone’s Foundation Office at 615.463.6645
Your First and Last Name (or Family Name) (20 characters)
Your Name________________________________________________________________
Centerstone’s outdoor areas at the Dede Wallace Campus provide a park-like setting with winding trails, archeological remnants of the old hospital footprint, shaded terraces and garden areas for staff, patients and neighbors to explore and enjoy. You can add to this special place by purchasing an engraved brick in your own name or in honor or memory of someone else. With your purchase of an engraved brick, you will help pave the way for future recovery and healing.
4” x 8” brick is $50 8” x 8” brick is $100
Your Address______________________________________________________________ Your Phone #______________________________________________ q Check Enclosed Credit Card #__________________________ Exp. Date___________ Security Code_____ *_ *Mailing Address For Notification ______________________________________________________________________ Please Send To: Centerstone, ATTN: Foundation Office, 1101 6th Avenue North Nashville, TN. Make checks payable to Centerstone CENTERSTONE.ORG
11
NEWS&NOTES Centerstone staffers awoke early one recent Saturday for the 2014 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Davidson County Walk and 5K Run. People and pets gathered to celebrate mental wellness at a fun and stigma-free event that featured music, door prizes and more.
Karen H. Rhea, MD, recently named a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association
Women to Watch Class of 2014 member Beth Hail (l) invited her mother Shirley Jones (r) to the Nashville Medical News event. Beth chose a career in social work based on her mom’s years of compassionate service managing a retirement home.
Karen H. Rhea Named Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association Karen H. Rhea, MD, Centerstone’s Chief Medical Officer, was recently named a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA). This honorary designation recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to the ongoing work of the Association. Dr. Rhea, a psychiatrist and pediatrician, was recognized at the Convocation of Distinguished Fellows during the APA Annual Meeting in San Francisco. 12
ISSUE FOURTEEN
Centerstone’s Beth Hail among 2014 Women to Watch Nashville Medical News has recognized Beth Hail, Centerstone’s Director of School-Based Services and Child & Adolescent Services, as a member of its Women to Watch Class of 2014. The noted publication is Middle Tennessee’s primary source for professional healthcare news and stated, “The Class of 2014 clearly epitomizes the original vision we had to honor those who make a difference in the healthcare industry . . . and more importantly . . . to the patients the industry serves.”
BlueCross BlueShield Grant Expands Centerstone’s Crisis Services Centerstone has received a $200,000 grant from the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation to expand Centerstone’s current crisis services. Funding will create the “Crisis Services High-Risk Follow-Up Project,” an extended outreach service to assist people in suicidal crisis by improving access to life-saving support, resources and treatment. Callers accessing Centerstone’s 24-hour crisis line (800681-7444), who are assessed as being at
Centerstone of America CEO, David C. Guth, Jr., has decided to share his experience in leading multistate not-for-profit mergers in a recently published book, Strategic Unions: A Marriage Guide for Healthy Not-For-Profit Mergers. With three decades of experience, Guth was able to provide a step-by-step guide to mergers, highlight the challenges and opportunities they face, and identify the most common reasons mergers fail. Published by the National Council for Behavioral Healthcare, the book can be ordered at www.StrategicUnions.com or on Amazon.com in Kindle format.
Centerstone has received a $200,000 grant from the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation to expand current Centerstone crisis services. Pictured at the check presentation are (l-r): Jennifer Armstrong (Centerstone Director of Crisis Care Services), Dawn Weber (BCBST Manager Community Relations and Foundations), Dr. Andrea Willis (BCBST Chief Medical Officer and Vice President), Dr. Bob Vero (Centerstone of Tennessee CEO), Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate (Centerstone of Tennessee and Centerstone Research Institute Board Member), and Becky Stoll (Centerstone Vice President for Crisis and Disaster Management).
Centerstone Offers Foster Care Services to Upper Cumberland Region
high-risk for suicide, will receive followup calls for continued risk assessment and follow-up plan development. Ongoing check-ins will occur within 24 hours of the original call and subsequent check-ins at seven days, 14 days and 30 days, based on acuity and need of the caller. Similar outreach will be available for individuals hospitalized after being referred from one of Centerstone’s Crisis Services professionals and veterans who are at high-risk for acute psychiatric crises. The program is an extension of Centertone’s overarching suicide prevention initiative.
Centerstone has expanded its foster care service to include the entire Upper Cumberland region. Residents of Cannon, Clay, Cumberland, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Smith, Van Buren, Warren and White counties will have to the opportunity to open their homes and make a difference in the lives of children in need by providing foster parent services on either a short- or long-term basis. The program is available to children and teens, typically between 12-18 years old, who have been placed in state custody. Centerstone is offering the four-week PATH (Parents as Tender Healers) certification course classes to the newly eligible participants.
Centerstone Expands Healthy Families Services Centerstone has expanded its Healthy Families program from Maury County to include residents of Coffee, Dickson and Lawrence counties. When a family needs assistance with a developing pregnancy or young baby, Healthy Families is there to ensure support and provide resources for a healthy future. Services include education about the importance of a healthy pregnancy, the impact of healthy influences during your baby’s early years of life, how to protect your baby’s developing brain and information on postpartum depression. Healthy Families is provided free of charge through funding from the State of Tennessee Department of Health through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program. a
CENTERSTONE.ORG
13
FEATURE
Courage Beyond at Centerstone: Life After War • Online support groups: We have several weekly virtual support groups: – 7 Lives of Military Wives: This group for military spouses and caregivers of warriors is moderated by certified life coaches and counselors. – Trench Talk: This group is run by military spouses for military spouses and offers friendship and connection with women and men facing common challenges and concerns. Today, a veteran is 12 times more likely to die by suicide after leaving military service than to be killed in action by an enemy combatant. Since 2001, more than 340,000 current and former service members have entered the Veterans Affairs health system for potential or provisional post-traumatic stress disorder. Estimates show that as many as 75% of those who suffer from combat trauma do not receive adequate treatment. Our military men and women deserve a chance at a normal life when they return home: Courage Beyond at Centerstone was created to help. Courage Beyond at Centerstone exists to empower service members, veterans and their families by providing confidential, no-cost or low-cost programs and services to help them face the challenges of life and war. Courage Beyond’s staff includes former service members, spouses and clinical experts. Combining Centerstone’s expertise in mental health treatment with the wisdom of staff members who are a part of the military community, we are able to offer a community of support to those facing post-traumatic stress disorder and other invisible wounds of military service. What we do Courage Beyond offers a variety of services, programs and support including: • In-person counseling: We have a national network of licensed clinical therapists who have been specially trained in military culture. Confidential counseling services are provided free or low-cost to those who qualify. • In-person support groups: We host several weekly support groups for military spouses across the United States. 14
ISSUE FOURTEEN
– Mindful Mothering: From “calm to chaos,” this group uses meditation and journaling to re-center parents in military families. – Healthy Relationships: This is a class that teaches men and women to overcome maladaptive relationship patterns. • Retreats: We offer many therapeutic rehabilitative events and coping skills retreats throughout the year. These retreats foster healing and support for both family members and warriors. • A crisis care line: Available nationwide 24/7 at 866.781.8010 or counseling@couragebeyond.org, our crisis line offers immediate help for those thinking about harming themselves and those concerned about a friend or family member. We strive to reach service members and their loved ones wherever, whenever and however they need help – in person, online, and on the phone. Who we serve Courage Beyond serves everyone whose lives are impacted by military service including veterans from all branches of service and components – regardless of discharge status, time of service, or length of service. We also offer specialized programs and services to family members and loved ones of those who have served. How to learn more For more information, email jenny.carr@couragebeyond.org or visit CourageBeyond.org. a
FEATURE
Unique Partnership Connects Primary and Mental Health Care Centerstone Health Partners, a subsidiary of Centerstone, and Unity Physician Partners have joined forces to enhance and improve the quality of patient care, especially for medically underserved patients with physical and behavioral healthcare needs. In this new venture, both primary care and behavioral health providers are co-located in Centerstone outpatient offices creating the opportunity for much needed collaboration and care coordination. Research indicates that 50% of frequent healthcare clients have an existing mental health condition. Similarly, the National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that individuals with serious mental illness have an increased risk of chronic but treatable medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Bringing both types of providers together under one roof enables us to better address the mental health concerns that may be exacerbating patients’ physical health problems and the physical health issues that may be preventing clients’ optimal mental health. The joint venture is now establishing primary care physician offices in various existing Centerstone locations: the Dede Wallace Campus (see pp. 16-17) and the Frank Luton Center in Nashville, the Harriet Cohn Center in Clarksville, the Gallatin Road Office in Madison, the South Wall Street Office in Shelbyville; and in two Indiana offices. Centerstone and Unity anticipate further growth in other existing sites, as well as newly constructed sites in these states. Linking physical and mental healthcare will enable communication among providers and ensure better care and faster, more accurate diagnoses for clients with complex co-occurring physical and mental health conditions. In addition, the collaboration brings together Centerstone’s and Unity’s collective research, operations and technology expertise to better serve all Unity and Centerstone clients. a
CENTERSTONE.ORG
15
FEATURE
Centerstone Opens New Outpatient Facility on Dede Wallace Campus
Dr. Bob Vero, Janet Ayers, Mayor Karl Dean and David C. Guth, Jr.
Jack Wallace (Centerstone Foundation Board of Directors Chair) and Centerstone’s John Page.
Centerstone’s Kim Baldwin and Senator Thelma Harper.
Centerstone recently celebrated the grand opening of its brand new outpatient facility on the Dede Wallace Campus located at 2400 White Avenue in Nashville. Approximately 250 guests braved the cold February wind and rain with bright spirits to commemorate the end result of Centerstone’s first Capital Campaign, which began more than six years ago. Centerstone CEO Dr. Bob Vero shared with guests the significant history of the campus, one that began a longstanding commitment to mental healthcare, with the Nashville Junior League’s creation of the Home for Crippled Children nine decades ago. “Being able to continue our legacy on this important property that is deeply rooted in Nashville’s history is incredibly inspiring,” said Dr. Vero. “We look forward to advancing the treatment and prevention of mental illness and addiction from this new location, and working to ensure the health and wellbeing of our clients’ minds and bodies.” Additional speakers of the evening included Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, who expressed how the progress Centerstone has made in creating an integrated model of care is a leading example for Nashville and aligns with his initiative for promoting the city’s overall health. 16
ISSUE FOURTEEN
Jean and Connie Summers.
Commissioner Doug Varney and Dr. Bob Vero.
Patti Smallwood, Janet Ayers and Brian Smallwood.
Chris Holmes, Judge Dan Eisenstein and David C. Guth, Jr.
Commissioner Doug Varney from the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services expressed both his personal support, and that of the state, for Centerstone’s leadership in the field of behavioral health. Centerstone of Tennessee Board Chair Janet Ayers closed the presentation, thanking the many dedicated leaders, professionals, supporters and friends for making this dream come true. “This beautiful building is a direct result of our hard work and dedication. And while the bricks and mortar are most certainly stunning, it’s what happens within these walls that means the most.” The ceremonial ribbon was then cut, and doors were opened for guests to tour the new $6 million, 18,090 square-foot facility - designed by Brian Smallwood of InForm Smallwood + Nickle, LLC of Nashville and constructed by Orion Building Corporation. The new facility is well-equipped to meet the mental and physical health needs of individuals across the lifespan, with care and comfort at every turn. A children’s play therapy and observation room features chalkboard walls for added creative expression. Adult offices have wall-mounted flat screen monitors and wireless capability, giving clients greater access to personalized health plans and progress reports. There are even community meeting rooms and an outdoor park on site. a CENTERSTONE.ORG
17
CENTERSTONE
1101 Sixth Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37208-2650 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED If you would like to be removed from our mailing list, please call (615) 463-6645 or email us at foundation@centerstone.org
WhoYouWant2Be Helps Teens Stay Safe on Prom Night Beautiful dresses, handsome tuxes and fragrant flowers weren’t the only items on display among Middle Tennessee high school kids during this year’s prom season. Thanks to Centerstone and the prevention program, WhoYouWant2Be, educational posters were distributed to prom-related businesses where high school students would see them as they planned for the big event. Colorful cards that listed tips for a drama-free prom night were also available. Do-and-don’t advice offered in the “A Night to Remember” campaign included: DO know your personal boundaries and know that you can and should say “no” to something you don’t want to do. DON’T drink or use drugs. It can lower your inhibitions, and you may find yourself in situations you’d avoid if you were sober. DO leave a situation if it makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. DON’T have sex just because you think you’re “supposed to” or feel pressured. Not everyone is doing it. Students were also directed to WhoYouWant2Be.org, where they can always find additional information on healthy decision making. a
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage
PAID
Nashville, TN Permit # 2397