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Mental unblock
REDUCING THE STIGMA OF SEEKING HELP FOR MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES
BY DR. STEPHANIE JAMISON-VOID
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The statistics surrounding the prevalence of mental health issues both throughout the country and throughout South Carolina remain startling – and have only gotten more alarming as a result of the pandemic. With one in five adults suffering from mental illness in any given year, there are as many people living with mental illness in the United States as those diagnosed with cancer – and about one in 25 adults suffer illness severe enough to interfere with their daily activities.
Most alarming of all? According to 2022 findings from Mental Health America (mhanational.org), more than half of adults with mental illness do not receive treatment (totaling over 27 million adults in the U.S. who are going untreated) – and more than 60 percent of youth with major depression do not receive any mental health treatment.
While it’s known that there has been a growing mental health crisis in the years prior to the pandemic – particularly among teens and children — it is clear that things have gotten significantly worse for many families both nationwide and right here in the Lowcountry. With so many individuals still not seeking help for their mental illness, the impact of unchecked and untreated mental illness (especially depression) is more than alarming – with suicide the second leading cause of death of youth ages 15-24, and the tenth leading cause of death for all Americans.
When it comes to why so many people still aren’t seeking help for mental health, one of the biggest issues is the stigma that still exists surrounding mental illness. Too many people don’t seek help because they either think they can do it on their own or are embarrassed and concerned about what other people will think (or worried that they may appear weak or “crazy”) if they go to therapy. Others may dismiss the problem – mistakenly thinking that their problems “aren’t big enough” to seek help. And many simply don’t know how to take the first steps – or what to do/where to go to get help.
With the mental health crisis showing no signs of slowing down, it’s more important than ever to end the stigma about getting help for mental illness. Here are some important things to remember about the importance of seeking help for any and all types of mental health concerns – and how to not only end the stigma surrounding mental health, but ensure that you and your family seek, and receive, the help you need. • Recognize that seeking counseling and therapy is a form of self-care. It’s important to understand that mental health services are not only for people in crisis – they are for anyone to help manage a wide range of issues. • Realize that seeking therapy is a sign of strength, not of weakness. It takes more courage to seek help from a professional and go to therapy than it does to simply ignore or dismiss your problem. • Don’t wait to talk to your kids about their mental health. Although talking to your children and teens about mental health topics may be difficult, these conversations are critical. Talking with them openly — and validating their emotions and concerns – is an important way to decrease the stigma of mental health issues and let them know they can always come to you for help. Car rides with your child are always a great way to engage in these conversations and keep a check on any mental health concerns. If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, help is out there. Now more than ever, it’s important to take that first step and reach out to a mental health professional, get rid of the stigma of asking for help and get the resources you need to help you and those you love to live a happier, healthier and more balanced life. ■you and those you love to live a happier, healthier and more balanced life.
Dr. Stephanie Jamison-Void is the CEO of Jamison Consultants Integrated HealthCare Services, is the CEO of Jamison Consultants Integrated HealthCare Services, which is dedicated to providing clients with a wide spectrum of mental health services that have helped so many children, adolescents, teens and adults enhance their quality of life. Throughout her career, Dr. Jamison-Void has played an instrumental role in helping many local individuals and families as well as human services professionals throughout South Carolina obtain health services for a wide variety of behavioral health concerns. She has a background in organizational leadership and behavioral health management, having worked as a human resource director, case manager, social worker and trainer of mental health professionals. She holds a PhD in organizational psychology. Jamisonconsultants.com She holds a PhD in organizational psychology. Jamisonconsultants.com
I can ring in sales; isn’t that enough?
HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT IS NOT ENOUGH
BY TAMARA BREAM
Tamara Bream is a partner at Equity Payment Solutions.
A
A recent visit to a client who had been using various models of a cash register for the past 30 years revealed the cash register ‘technology” was paired with a standalone credit card machine that was still using a dialup connection to process payments. Clearly an outdated, slow and a very manual process. A discussion ensued about a cash register versus a point-of-sale (POS) system.
We often tell our clients that if they are looking for an intuitive POS with great hardware options and tremendous reporting resources, Clover can be a great fit for their businesses. However, there are many POS systems with a range of capabilities from which to choose, and the best one for your business depends on your needs – both your needs today and in the future.
VS.
CASH REGISTER
Ring up and process transactions
Complete rudimentary calculations like tax and change
Print receipts
Hold cash
Compile end-of-day reports
POS SYSTEM
Perform cash register functions
Access data remotely in real-time with system on the cloud
Use smart inventory management with automations and notifications
Identify trends and improvements with advanced analytics and reporting
Prevent theft with security features
Integrate with other software for accounting, CRM, marketing, loyalty, eCommerce and more
Offer stationary and mobile technology options
Track overall sales
Pay attention Not all POS systems are created equal. One that works for one type of business might not work for another. Retail companies should invest in a system that is specifically geared towards the retail sector.
The client wanted an updated POS system that would work both via ethernet/Wi-Fi or with a cellular connection, or all of the next-generation processing connections that increase the speed of a transaction and security. When the topic of changing to a POS system comes up, the most common concerns are about downtime, a fear of technology, cost or just not enough time to make a change. Therefore, before the installation of the POS system and, in this case a Clover, a review of the client’s current business practices should be completed. This ensures that the POS system functions as the client needs it to now and in the future. Clover POS was installed, including a Flex, which gave the client maximum mobility.
As with most things, there is no time like the present, and the good news is that changing systems is much easier than people expect, and the rewards far outweigh the time invested in transition. By upgrading the client’s technology to process payments, a POS system also availed them numerous reports that were performed manually for years. Thus, they saved time and resources, which all contributed to “paying” for the new POS system.
While needs vary, this comparison might help you in deciding if it’s time for an upgrade. ■
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Findingjoy in makingcoffee
HOW I FOUND JOY IN AN EVERYDAY TASK
BY DON HARKEY
A
A couple of years ago, I got some news from my doctor that I needed to make some changes. My cholesterol levels were too high, and I to make some changes. My cholesterol levels were too high, and I would need to make some lifestyle changes or go on medication. would need to make some lifestyle changes or go on medication. I elected to try the lifestyle changes first and have been I elected to try the lifestyle changes first and have been successful in lowering my cholesterol levels through diet and exercise. successful in lowering my cholesterol levels through diet and exercise.
But in that process I learned something else. I’ve learned to find joy in But in that process I learned something else. I’ve learned to find joy in making coffee.
I love a nice, hot cup of coffee in the morning. However, as a busy person with lots to do, I looked for the easiest ways I could get my coffee. I originally landed on a Keurig machine because it is so fast and easy. I also would frequent one of the many locally owned coffee shops in downtown Springfield for a mid-day cup.
One of the dietary changes my doctor recommended was intermittent fasting. Essentially I have been skipping breakfast and only eating during an 8-hour window each day. This shifted my morning routine. I had been in the habit of making myself a hot breakfast every morning. To help me with the shift, I decided to up my coffee game.
I started by purchasing a French press and a coffee grinder. I searched for the best coffee beans, trying several brands before landing on a few of my favorites. I learned what coffee beans, trying several brands before landing on a few of my favorites. I learned what I liked, and I learned how to make it the way I liked it. Over time I upgraded my process to include I liked, and I learned how to make it the way I liked it. Over time I upgraded my process to include a temperature-controlled kettle and a better grinder. This year I even added an espresso machine. I a temperature-controlled kettle and a better grinder. This year I even added an espresso machine. I purposely chose a good machine, but one that is manually operated. I’ve even expanded into coldpurposely chose a good machine, but one that is manually operated. I’ve even expanded into coldbrew coffee in the summer.
I have learned a lot about making coffee, and I have surprisingly found that I enjoy the process and the result. The result is easy to like. I drink the best coffee I can make every morning and that is a nice benefit. However, the surprising outcome is that I also enjoy the process. Something is fulfilling about doing something the right way, every day.
When I decide to make espresso, I follow the process I have learned from the machine directions and by watching online videos. I preheat the filter. I grind the coffee and carefully dose it into the filter, tapping the sides as it grinds to help the grounds settle in. I tamp the grind with the right amount of pressure so that I get the right extraction that I like. I run the machine before I add the filter to get the temperature perfect. When I’m done, I flush the system out, empty my drain pan and wipe down everything.
It’s quite a process and it seems like it could be a lot of work, but the process gives me joy. Doing something well gives joy. In a world where shortcuts are plentiful, it is easy to get through a day without something well gives joy. In a world where shortcuts are plentiful, it is easy to get through a day without doing some things really well. As humans we are hardwired to want to impact the world around us, even doing some things really well. As humans we are hardwired to want to impact the world around us, even in small ways such as making coffee in the morning.
If you are looking for a little more joy in your life, maybe it’s not a big change that you should be If you are looking for a little more joy in your life, maybe it’s not a big change that you should be making. Find something that you can do really well, and do it. Maybe it's making your bed every making. Find something that you can do really well, and do it. Maybe it's making your bed every morning. Maybe it's packing a gourmet lunch. Maybe it’s sending a handwritten note to morning. Maybe it's packing a gourmet lunch. Maybe it’s sending a handwritten note to someone every day. Maybe it’s making something.
Whatever it is, there are opportunities all around you to find joy in the everyday tasks that Whatever it is, there are opportunities all around you to find joy in the everyday tasks that can be done well. ■
Don Harkey His first responsibility as CEO is to his team. He also spends time speaking at conferences and associations across the country, evangelizing the idea that organizations that create empowerment and alignment end up being much more successful. If you’d like to learn more about what it means to become People Centric, contact Don Harkey at PeopleCentric.com.
Parks and recreation
HARGRAY’S TECH ELEVATES ISLAND REC
Soule
CASE STUDY
BY LESLIE T. SNADOWSKY PHOTOS BY ISLAND RECREATION CENTER
Rec your life Amenities at the Island Rec Center include basketball, fencing, karate, kickboxing, pickleball, tennis and volleyball. There also are indoor walking tracks, locker rooms with restrooms and showers and a pool. On right: Hilton Head Island Recreation Association’s Wingfest celebrated its 25th annual festival on Saturday, March 19, 2022. The 26th annual event will take place on Saturday, March 18, 2023.
In January 2019 the Hilton Head Island Recreation
IAssociation completed its renovation and expansion of the Island Recreation Center on 20 Wilborn Road, more than doubling its footprint with a new gymnasium and playground, classrooms, fitness equipment, basketball courts, indoor walking track, renovated restrooms, pool, restroom facilities and more.
Staying true to its mission to improve the quality of life for people of all ages and to produce, provide and coordinate public recreation programs, wellness activities and community events, the local nonprofit turned to Hargray to ensure new technology was installed to support the recreational needs of the community.
“Without Hargray’s longstanding support, we wouldn’t be able to provide such quality service, at least in the technology sector, here at our new facility on Hilton Head,” said Frank Soule, executive director of the Hilton Head Island Recreation Association.
HIGH TECH WORKOUT
When the Hilton Head Island Recreation Association renovated its facilities, it purchased state-of-the-art equipment in need of technology to match.
“Our relationship with Hargray goes back more than 30 years,” Soule said. “When the original Island Rec Center was built decades ago, Hargray was there to install our phone lines. But four years ago we needed Hargray to give us a total technology makeover so our new equipment would work and those who came to use our facility would have access to fast and reliable internet connections and wireless network services for their smartphones and headphones.”
Hargray assessed the needs of the Island Rec Center expansion and determined it needed a better and stronger infrastructure to deliver the proper tech services to the community. It provided and installed fiber internet circuits for network optimization and security and provided Wi-Fi for both the facility’s interior and exterior spaces and for “audiofetch” to connect handheld devices to TV sound. It also updated the Island Rec Center’s servers and phone systems.
“Working with Hargray, I learned how much we could do within our facility based on its upgrades that allowed us to keep up with today’s technology needs and challenges,” Soule said. “Having Hargray as a partner continues to improve what we’re able to offer within our facility.”
THE FINISH LINE
“It’s been smooth sailing, and it’s been a great partnership,” Soule said. “The long-term benefit of our partnership with Hargray is having a first-class company that’s been in our community for years be our partner, allowing us the opportunity to feature the latest and greatest in technology.”
Soule said Hargray makes it possible for the community to learn more about the Island Rec Center’s variety of activities from fitness, to childcare programs, to senior programs. When people go to the center and access its Wi-Fi, they can go to www.islandreccenter.org to learn about all the center’s programs and amenities that are being offered.
Be in shape Fitness classrooms include various cardio equipment, such as stationary bikes, treadmills, rowers, ellipticals, adaptive cardio machines, free weights and strength equipment.
RESULTS ARE IN
Hargray has been a title sponsor for the Hilton Head Island Recreation Association’s Wingfest, which celebrated its 25th year last March. It’s a family-friendly festival that features up to 25 restaurants cooking more than 6,500 pounds of chicken wings and offers fun recreational opportunities, including a rock-climbing wall, a bungee jump, live entertainment, an adult wingeating contest and a cooking competition.
“Without Hargray’s title sponsorship and community support, we wouldn’t have been able to produce this popular festival that helps raise money for our scholarships,” Soule said.
Proceeds raised at Wingfest go toward the Carmines Family Recreation Scholarship Fund to ensure no child is denied recreation. The association gives more than $250,000 worth of scholarships annually to families so they have the opportunity to participate in recreation programs. The association offers scholarships to fit every individual’s financial situation and strives not to turn anyone away due to financial limitations.
“Being a nonprofit and having the support of local businesses like Hargray allows us the opportunity to help hundreds , if not thousands of families a year, and that partnership’s been critical to our success,” Soule said. ■
Five tips from a successful businesswoman
BERKELEY HALL’S MARSHA LEVIN, OWNER OF CROWN CLOTHING COMPANY, SHARES GOOD BUSINESS ADVICE
BY EDDY HOYLE
Marsha Levin is the owner and M president of Crown Clothing Company in Vineland, N.J., which celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. This family-owned company was founded by her husband’s father and grandfather. Upon her fatherin-law’s death, it passed to her husband, Howard, and in 2013 it passed to her upon his death. She had worked at the company for 10 years previously, and she had 35 years of experience in human resources to bring to bear in her new role.
Levin said that when she and Howard took over in the mid '80s, the company made men’s suit jackets, sport coats and ladies’ blazers. They made for high-end names in the civilian clothing market, but business was down because most manufacturing was going overseas. However, a fortuitous scandal presented an opportunity when the Philadelphia Inquirer broke a story about companies that made military uniforms. They were charged with taking bribes for contract awards and they were debarred from bidding on future contracts.
Local since 1991
Marsha Levin lives in Berkeley Hall. She is an avid golfer and has five holes-in-one. She also loves to cook and entertain in her beautiful new home, built in 2015.
“We got lucky when others broke the law,” Levin stated. “In 1987 we got an Army contract, and we persevered. Then in 1989 we got a five-year Marine Corps contract to make the dress-green coats and went on to get another contract for dress-blue coats. Since then we have had only one customer: the U.S. government.”
It was 1989 when the Levins first came to the Lowcountry on vacation and were invited to play golf at Haig Point on Daufuskie Island. They loved it so much, they bought a condo there in 1991 and were part-time residents until 1998, when they bought a permanent home on the mainland. Levin now lives in Berkeley Hall and is an avid golfer. She and Howard each have had five holes-in-one, and it’s her goal to get one more so she will top his record. She added that she was privileged to play in the Heritage golf tournament three times. “Over the years I’ve believed in the importance of giving back, supporting our veterans, educational scholarships and local non-profits in our community.”
HERE ARE HER TIPS FOR SUCCESS
1. Be prepared. “We should all understand that our personal and business lives are entwined,” Levin explained. “Whatever you do in your personal life, do in your business life. Never overextend yourself, and put money away for the unexpected. Save for a rainy day. To me Covid has taught us that you never know what’s coming. You’ve got to have money ready for these situations.”
2. People first. Levin said, “Hire the very best people, and always think about them – keep them in the forefront of your mind, and treat them very well. They come first. With Covid in mind, we must provide whatever they need to be safe. Pay them a fair wage, and ensure a healthy work environment. Hire people who trust and share your goals. My goal is for my business to keep going long after I’m gone, so the people I hire must have the same goals.” 3. Never forget. “Never forget where you came from and how you got where you are,” Levin advised. “We all have to work our way up. We can’t ever forget what those before us did to keep a business afloat. And we should be thankful every day.” 4. Good choices. “Make good choices about your business,” Levin said. “Look for new contracts, address capital needs, and recognize that equipment will have to be replaced, for example. Put money aside so that when you strive to make good choices personally and in business, you can succeed.” 5. Quality counts. Levin emphasized how important it is to turn out a good product. “When you work for the government,” she explained, “you’re under a microscope. So if you do what’s right for your people and what’s right in your business, being under such scrutiny shouldn’t matter.” ■
