90Works is committed to offering essential information and resources to address the health and well-being of our Veteran community.
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This month, as we observe Minority Mental Health Awareness, our focus will be on highlighting the mental health challenges facing the BIPOC Veteran community, and feature interviews with the 90Works Suicide Prevention Program Managers to shed light on important health programs and initiatives.
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In-Depth Interview: Lisa Finchio & Elizabeth Barbour, 90Works Program Managers of SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant |
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is a Veteran who is now dedicated to specializing in Veteran care. Lisa served in the United States Navy from 1994 to 2000. She was stationed at Navel Air Warfare Center, Lakehurst New Jersey after that she served on sea duty on the USS Seattle (AOE-3) a Sacramento-class fast combat support ship, which was stationed out of Earl New Jersey. She ended her service in Portsmouth Virginia at the Naval Medical Center. "It was an incredible ride and would do it all over again." She is very appreciative for the sacrifices and dedication of the men and women who have served and are serving. After honorable discharge she decided to further her education. Lisa obtained a Master of Science in Psychology.
“I am blessed to be able to work with Veterans and their families. Our Veterans have served their country with honor, courage, and commitment. Veterans deserve their basic needs to be met to include but not limited to nutritional meals, secure housing, substance abuse care and aftercare, mental health challenges care and aftercare, physical health care.”
The Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant with 90Works lets Lisa assist Veterans and their families with provisions of suicide prevention services to eligible individuals and their families that are necessary for improving the mental health status and wellbeing and reducing the suicide risk of eligible individuals and their families.
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is a public health professional with a background in community education, research, and service. Elizabeth attended Georgia Southern University, where she obtained her Master of Public Health in Community Health Education along with a Graduate Certificate in Teaching. Elizabeth has additional certifications in Mental Health First Aid, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, and Mindful Self-Compassion. Elizabeth has facilitated various community mental health efforts, including but not limited to: mindful self-compassion workshops, program evaluation and grant writing for suicide prevention nonprofits, mental health resource fairs, gatekeeper trainings, emotional intelligence leadership workshops, and published research on depression. Elizabeth is an active participant of the Lowndes County Mental Health Coalition and is acting chair of the Lowndes County Service Members, Veterans, and Families Task Force. Elizabeth is also a family member of several military Veterans and Active Duty Service Members.
“I love being a part of the forefront of change in the mental health industry. Between the launch of the 988 crisis hotline and new federal efforts such as SSG Fox SPGP and the COMPACT Act, it appears that mental health and suicide prevention efforts are finally receiving some much needed attention.”
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Challenges our Minority Veterans are Experiencing |
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| Individual& Collective Traumas |
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Discrimination & Systematic Racism |
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Strategies to Help Minority Veterans At-Risk |
Connection with culture and community, and feeling a sense of belonging, is vital for well-being and the mental health of all people. For BIPOC individuals, making deep connections with people a of similar background or lived experience not only provides a sense of belonging and solidarity, but is also a necessary means for thriving. Through the power of community connection, BIPOC individuals can realize their full potential and sustain their cultural values.
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Tips on supporting your community and creating healthy spaces. |
● Educate others: Talk to your friends and family about why it’s important to create spaces that are welcoming and inclusive for people.
● Start conversations: Speak openly about your mental health, which may encourage others to share their own experiences and concerns.
● Organize wellness events: Work with community organizations, leaders, and mental health professionals to organize events and activities that promote connection and cultural expression.
● Advocate for the creation of safer spaces: Consider how you might support making your community center, spiritual gathering place, or educational facility a safer space for people to feel comfortable to talk about their mental health challenges without fear of judgment or stigma.
● Seek support: Connect with mental health professionals and community resources to get the support you need in your neighborhood or community.
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SSG FOX Suicide Prevention Grant Impact |
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Mark your calendars with these upcoming events designed to support Veteran health. |
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| Pensacola Out of the Darkness Community Walk |
On-Site Registration Starts at 9:00am. The Program Starts at 10:00am at Maritime park, Pensacola FL Contact Roberta Welch at 850-776-3631 or email rwelch.afsp@gmail.com
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| World Mental Health Day Resource Fair |
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Veterans: You're Not Alone.
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Tap into a supportive network designed just for you. Connect with community programs and resources to find strength and support. Don't Wait. Reach out today and take the first step towards empowerment and healing. Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1
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Mental Health Resources & Support |
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EscaRosa Suicide Prevention Coalition |
| Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration |
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| | Lakeview Center 24/7 Mental Health Services |
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211/United Way of west/Northwest Florida |
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