Author Archives for Ashley Vactor

In Texas, People With Mental Illness Are Finding Work Helping Peers

Peer support groups, much like the Alcoholics Anonymous programs, are becoming more prevalent in the mental health community. In places like Texas, paid-peer support counselors are helping to improve the lives of individuals living with mental illness while filling the supply gap among mental health professionals. Many of these counselors live with mental illness themselves…. View Article Published on - July 12, 2017 4:39 pm Published by -

The transition between college-based therapy and life post-graduation

“If you’re here, you’re receiving the great, free resources that the university provides—basically, that’s all you know.” Studies show college students with access to a licensed therapist on campus have benefited both personally and academically. But the growing issue colleges need to address is preparing their students how to lose these resources and move forward… View Article Published on - June 27, 2017 2:32 pm Published by - Leave your thoughts

MHA-NYC’s 25th Annual Gala raises awareness for mental health

“The Mental Health Association of New York City (MHA-NYC) raised over half a million dollars to support programs and services that improve the lives of people impacted by mental health challenges in New York City and across the United States. The organization’s 25th Anniversary Gala, which was held at Gotham Hall and themed “Just Talk About… View Article Published on - June 21, 2017 4:12 pm Published by -

Leading the Way in Innovation

On June 14, 2017, MHA-NYC was awarded Mental Health America’s 2017 Innovation in Programming award at the Mental Health America Conference in Washington, D.C. The award recognizes MHA-NYC’s groundbreaking efforts to offer internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy with live telephone, text, and chat support. The programs can be accessed by computer, tablet, or phone. In collaboration… View Article Published on - June 20, 2017 9:37 pm Published by - Leave your thoughts

Changing the Conversation with Music

On April 28, 2017, rap artist Logic released his suicide prevention anthem, “1-800-273-8255,” ahead of the release of his album Everybody.  The song is named after the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s national phone number, and encourages individuals in crisis to reach out. The song, which features Alessia Cara and Khalid, details the story of a… View Article Published on - June 20, 2017 9:35 pm Published by - Leave your thoughts

“Just Talk About It” for Mental Health

On June 7, 2017, MHA-NYC hosted its 25th Annual Gala celebration, “Just Talk About It: Stories of Recovery and Success” at Gotham Hall in Manhattan. The benefit focused on the power of ‘just talking about’ mental health and celebrated those who, through public words and deeds, have helped thousands find hope and care. The gala… View Article Published on - June 20, 2017 9:30 pm Published by - Leave your thoughts

U.S. Drug Overdose on the Rise

“Drug overdose deaths in 2016 most likely exceeded 59,000, the largest annual jump ever recorded in the United States, according to preliminary data compiled by The New York Times.” The drug overdose epidemic has been on the rise since the early 2000’s but is now classified as the leading cause of death among Americans under 50. Further… View Article Published on - June 7, 2017 3:48 pm Published by - Leave your thoughts

The Millennial Divide in Self Care Practices

“Why is there a generational divide in taking care of yourself?” It is important to not only practice self care, but self awareness as well. “Self-care plus self-awareness equals self-love.” With the internet being one of the biggest social influences in the world, it’s clear why millennials are leading the way in self-care practices such… View Article Published on - June 5, 2017 7:04 pm Published by - Leave your thoughts