In the Children's Mental Health Network Friday Update Email today, it was announced that I will be promoting the Network as their Spokesperson! I am very excited to have this opportunity to reach more and more people about the importance of diagnosis, treatment, and support for children with mental health challenges. If you would like to receive the Friday Update Email each week, you can sign up on their website at http://www.cmhnetwork.org/sign-up and I highly recommend it, as they cover a wealth of topics for everyone in regards to mental health. As stated in their announcement below, you can also find a page on their website to request me as a featured speaker at your upcoming event http://www.cmhnetwork.org/speaking-engagements. The text below is only a snippit of the entire Friday Update, so be sure to visit the website!
As to Scott Bryant-Comstock, President & CEO of CMH Network, and Brittany Smith, Director of Community Management for CMH Network, I can't thank you both enough for all of the support and friendship you have provided me. The picture to the right is of Brittany and me at the Be a Green Queen Event, when she came all the way from Portland, Oregon, to Norris City, Illinois, to provide support for the event from the Network! I definitely can tell you it is a huge honor to be able to help promote this incredible organization with the most incredible people at my side!
Friday update – 6-1-12
Greetings faithful readers. Here is what's new on the Children's Mental Health Network website. We are knee deep in planning for the future this week and are excited about the possibilities ahead. In the words of Alan Kay – "The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” So grab a skinny latte, settle in and imagine the possibilities with the entries below.
Kristin Melton goes for the title!This July, Kristin Melton
will compete for the title of Mrs. International 2012 in Chicago. She
will promote the Network as our Spokesperson with the goal of creating
interest in children's mental health awareness, sharing information
about our work, and promoting our mission. Kristin is eager to engage in
advocacy events everywhere, and is available as a featured speaker.
Would you like to have Kristin Melton as a guest speaker at your next
event? Let us know! Good luck Kristin and thanks for being an ambassador for children's mental health.
As a parent, I think it is a pretty tough issue to deal with! I don't know about you, but if my children are hurting, my momma bear instinct kicks in rather quickly and I'll do anything to make sure they are safe and protected. However, that doesn't mean that I always know what to do when those situations come up. That's especially true when my emotions get in the way.
I've been provisionally certified as an Olweus Bullying Prevention Program Trainer for almost a year now, but that doesn't mean that I have all of the answers to prevention or safety. What it does mean though is that I have committed to helping communities to recognize what bullying really is and how to feel empowered to intervene in bullying situations. You'd be amazed at how those two things make all the difference in the world even if you don't have the solutions to eliminating it completely.
The elementary and middle schools in Eldorado, Illinois effectively implemented the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program this past school year, and I had the priviledge to be involved with training their bullying prevention committee. I loved being a part of this transformation of their schools and am so impressed with the hard work the staff and students did throughout the year to start making their school grounds into safer places.
With Jim Mayer, creator of IM4Ublog.com
On May 2nd, as a celebration for all of the great work they did, we were able to invite Uncle Jim Mayer to come and perform his bullying prevention education program for students K-8 called IM4U, and they loved it! Don't know who Jim Mayer is? He's definitely worth a google search and so is his IM4U blog. I was so honored to meet a man who is using his huge celebrity status to reach the children of the US. He's personable, he's fun, he cares about kids, and he definitely has my endorsement! Not only did he perform, but he stayed around the schools the remainder of the day and the next morning just to hang around with the students and get to know them. He is truly committed to the cause!
I feel very fortunate to be able to have spent some time talking with Jim. He is a phenomenal person with a admirable goal in helping children everywhere to overcome bullying. He really empathizes with them about how it feels to be a target. He also wrote a song called "Show Me the Light" that was about a girl who took her life as a result of bullying. Here is the video that Jim posted in response to Jonah Mowery which plays the song "Show Me the Light." It's a very powerful and moving video.
Of course, Jim's blog is an excellent source of support for bullying prevention, as is the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. But, I would like to also share one of the resources that I consistently use for myself and when educating parents. It's from the Child Mind Institute called "How to Arm Your Child Against Bullying" and includes 5 tips for parents about supporting your child.
I highly recommend contacting Jim Mayer through Deb Grisham Entertainment if you are in need of a bullying prevention presentation for your school or organization. You won't be disappointed.
A great resource from NAMI Queens/Nassau is available to teach others about the stigma surrounding mental illness. I'll be sharing their curriculum "Breaking the Silence - Teaching the Next Generation About Mental Illness" at the Eldorado Middle School for their Eagle Pride Day on Thursday, April 26, 2012. The curriculum is so impressive that I thought their 10 question quiz regarding general knowledge about mental illness was worth sharing to my blog readers. Use it for yourself or use it with your children so that we can share correct information about mental health diagnosis and treatment.
True or False?
1. Serious mental illness can happen to any family.
2. The suicide rate for people who suffer from mental illness is 10 percent.
3. Psychopath and psychotic mean the same thing.
4. The great majority of people with mental illness are not violent.
5. Abuse of drugs and alcohol may be a way people with mental illness medicate themselves to relieve their symptoms.
6. Mental illness and mental retardation are the same thing.
7. People with mental illness can really pull themselves together and be normal if they try hard enough.
8. Mental illness strikes one in five people at some point in their lives.
9. Mental illness is a physical illness affecting the brain.
10. All people with mental illness live in their own world and are out of contact with reality all of the time.
So, how did you do?
Answers: 1T 2T 3F 4T 5T 6F 7F 8T 9T 10F
Social change about mental health views take investment by everyone. How can you and your family commit to helping change how the world sees diagnosis and treatment?
Today Paul and I celebrate fifteen years of marriage together. The time has flown by and I can still feel as giddy about him sometimes as I did when he first called me in May of 1995. I feel very blessed to be able to say that.
Given that our anniversary is the day after Valentines day, and this year it falls in the middle of the week, it's hard to find time to celebrate between work, children, their sports/school activities, and life in general. In fact, he's off to Omaha, Nebraska for work this morning as I write this! But, he makes so many other days feel just as special...like the message he sent to me not too long ago through Linked In:
LinkedIn
Paul Melton has sent you a message.
Date: 11/23/2011
Subject: Job Offer
Dear Kristin,
I would like to extend to you an offer for the position of Wonderful Incredible Fantastic Executive (W.I.F.E.). Based on your experience and education you are overqualified for this position, but I feel I can make an exception in your case. Benefits include 2 kids, a moody husband and tons of responsibilities. I know this sounds like your dream job so before you accept please consider thoroughly. I will be anxiously awaiting your decision.
Sincerely,
Paul Melton
CEO
Melton & Melton, INC.
Isn't that fabulous...and creative too! I just hope that I also do things that make him feel the same way about me. I guess that's what makes marriages strong. The willingness to want to continually be respectful to the person you love and in turn also respected by them.
We were able to have a celebration early in January when we took a cruise to the Bahamas and we had a fabulous time together. We rode scooters around Nassau and Key West, relaxed in hammock together on the beach at Coco Cay, did Karaoke for the first time, were chosen to participate in the Love & Marriage game show (which by the way, was an experience I will never forget), and met some of the most fabulous people from all over the US.
As February 1st signals the beginning of American Heart Month, so many across the nation are anticipating the celebration of Wear Red Day on Friday, February 3rd. You can bet I'll be doing my part and volunteering my efforts to share the message, and of course it is motivated by the care that I have for those close to me -- wanting them to know how important it is to pay attention to their
heart health.
Sometimes the mission and efforts of many organizations go without notice to those who have not had the experience of someone close having difficulties -- a very sad idea, but true. However, that's the shining light behind the mission of Go RED for Women, don't wait until it's too late -- learn and be aware before it can happen. As with anything, education is always key. I am happy to have helped promote Go Red for Women through the International Pageant System for several years.
But here's where my interaction with promoting heart health becomes real.
Meet my good friend Camille.
Camille and I work together at Egyptian Health Department, and like the other ladies in the office, we enjoy Camille's calm and yet spunky attitude while she dedicates her time to intervening with community crisis calls. Just like the rest of us working and taking care of our families, she felt tired a lot, but was also realizing that she was short of breath very easily with tasks that should not be causing that feeling. Taking charge of her health, she went to her doctor who diagnosed her with mild aortic stenosis. Still taking charge (and thank goodness she did) she pushed her doctor to perform a stress test which then showed a possible blockage. She was scheduled for a heart cath, and when she went we were all very concerned for her and awaited the results. The test showed that she had a 90% blockage in two places of her main artery -- a condition that is termed as "the widow maker"-- as in if she had a heart attack, she would not have made it to the hospital in time to save her life. The next day she was scheduled for an immediate double by-pass.
I am happy to say that this past January 3rd, Camille joined us back at the office. Tragedy averted, but only because she took charge of something that she felt was not right about her body. I hope that I can be like that. Too many times, like many other women, I have too many things to do and don't take care of myself as I should -- again the message of Go RED -- take the time to be sure your heart is healthy because it is not something to dismiss until later. Stress, anxiety, eating on the run, and sacrificing sleep hours to catch up can take a toll on anyone and I definitely fit that part. How about you? How about someone close to you? Take action for yourself or a loved one and share the message of Go Red and the American Heart Association. It's easy to do and here is the link to prove it...
Stigma has just become a “fancy” word for believing negative ideas about something and then discriminating against people for being or having a part of that idea.So goes the stigma of mental illness. Many people believe that this illness is untreatable and that it renders those afflicted in a way that makes them unproductive and unvaluable to society. But, for those who have mental illness, live with someone with mental illness, or work in the mental health field, we know how untrue those beliefs are, and we are doing our best to change negative ideas.
Everyday pro-mental health organizations share the message that mental illness is treatable and manageable. Those behind this movement try our best to find the strengths that each and every person has in spite of any illness with which they are labeled. In fact, the strengths a person has can be in direct correlation with the illness — as it has developed in order to compensate for the brain not functioning as needed. And to prove it, think of all of the talented people in our history who are considered the “greats” in the arts or intellectual field. The fact that they also have a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other disorder means they embraced their strengths and were appreciated for them despite the illness.
So how do we unite to stop stigma?It starts with YOU. Yes, you, reading this right now! Changing the social idea about mental illness is an individual choice that belongs to everyone. However, when you show your support, and no fear of mental illness, it creates a chain reaction. All it takes is one person telling a story of their struggle with anxiety, or their child’s story of depression, and on, and on. It’s amazing how contagious it can be and I have seen it in action. YOU are the bridge to unite the work being done all over the world. Can I count on you to help?
I'm a Green Ribbon Advocate for Children's Mental Health
Mental health advocacy is a passion for me and I actively promote reducing stigma so that more families receive support and treatment for their mental health needs. I believe that no family should think they are excluded from mental health challenges -- including me and my own family, because mental health concerns affect everyone regardless of race, religion, culture, economic status, or educational background. As a therapist and a mother, I share the message that being diagnosed with a disorder is not a result of bad parenting or something that should be shameful. Being fully aware of your mental health strengths, limitations, and daily coping strategies empowers your abilities to be the best YOU possible. -- Kristin
FFCMH Board of Directors Member
I'm proud to be a Board of Directors Member and Executive Committee Treasurer of the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health. The Federation is the number one advocacy group in the nation for children and families with mental health needs.
Sandra Spencer, Executive Director of FFCMH
“I am thrilled that Kristin Melton, in her role as Mrs. Midwest International, is shining a bright light on children’s mental health and giving it the international attention it deserves for making a difference in the lives of children and their families. I know that if she is crowned Mrs. International, she will continue the marvelous work she is doing to create awareness around children’s mental health issues.”
Add a CMH Twibbon to your Facebook or Twitter Profile
Why Green for CMH?
In the 1800's the color green was used to brand people who were labeled "insane". The children's mental health community decided to continue using the color green, but with a completely different focus. Green signifies new life, new growth, and new beginnings. Therefore, green ribbons are worn to raise public awareness to better the lives of children and youth with serious emotional disorders. Please show your support of these children and their families.
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Looking for support as a parent of a child with a mental health challenge?
The Federation of Families can help! With over 120 chapters in the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, and Canada, there is one that is close to you. Visit the FFCMH website to see the list of the current active chapters and state organizations that help to advocate and support children and families with mental health needs. Click Here.
Gary M. Blau, PhD, Chief of Child, Adolescent, & Family Branch of SAMHSA
As Mrs. Midwest International, Kristin has created visibility and highlighted the importance of children's mental health. She has demonstrated amazing dedication and leadership, and if crowned Mrs. International she will have an even greater opportunity to share this critical message." Gary M. Blau, PhD
Scott Bryant-Comstock, Children's Mental Health Network CEO & President
"I am so proud to have Kristin Melton, Mrs. Midwest International, as our Official Spokesperson for the Children's Mental Health Network. We are counting on Kristin to be a positive ambassador of hope and support for youth and families addressing the stigma of mental health challenges."
Olweus Bullying Prevention Certified Trainer
Are you looking for an Olweus Certified Trainer to help implement the program in your local school? Olweus is the number one program to help transform the school climate into one that promotes respect and empowers everyone to stop bullying now. I'd love to be able to help your school become bully free.
Use your life experiences to earn a certification as a Parent Support Provider
Do you mean that I can get an official certification just for having navigated the mental health system for my own family? YES! Becoming a Certified Parent Support Provider is a great career choice when we are talking about helping families grow stronger. Use your family life experiences to help support others who may be having difficulties with mental health challenges. Find out more by clicking here.
The Facts: 1 in 5 children have a mental health challenge.
One in five might not sound like a lot to some people. Think of it as 20% of all children. Still not making an impact? How about this... In an average classroom of 25 children, that means that 5 children are affected. In other words, every classroom in America has at least 5 students with a mental health challenge that is most likely not being addressed. What's the big deal? Untreated mental health disorders can lead to school failure, personal victimization, substance abuse, violent/criminal behavior, and even suicide. What's worse? It can be avoided simply by diagnosis and treatment. It seems a shame that we are sentencing 5 children per classroom to the fates listed above. Be a green ribbon advocate because of the facts.
Project Connect
As the Social Marketing Coordinator at Egyptian Health Department, I keep the Project Connect Facebook Page full of information and events in Southeastern Illinois regarding children's mental health. It's a great resource even if you don't live in our area. Be sure to LIKE US!
Macy's Shop for A Cause
Show your support for FFCMH by purchasing a Macy's Shopping Pass!
As to Scott Bryant-Comstock, President & CEO of CMH Network, and Brittany Smith, Director of Community Management for CMH Network, I can't thank you both enough for all of the support and friendship you have provided me. The picture to the right is of Brittany and me at the Be a Green Queen Event, when she came all the way from Portland, Oregon, to Norris City, Illinois, to provide support for the event from the Network! I definitely can tell you it is a huge honor to be able to help promote this incredible organization with the most incredible people at my side!
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