CalABLE and Mental Health

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, CalABLE asked our Ambassadors how having a CalABLE account has impacted their mental health.

Below are their responses!

Miguel says “Losing your vision and navigating our world visually impaired is a very stressful thing. But thanks to my CalABLE account I can save, invest, and plan for qualified disability expenses without concern that it may impact access to benefits and resources. CalABLE is a tool that helps me prepare and plan for my future. Building a nest egg for disability expenses and knowing my savings won't count against me gives me peace of mind and is definitely a positive to my mental health.”

Jennifer says “CalABLE has certainly helped my mental health. After college and graduation and several jobs, my health fell apart--and I had no savings or a way to store any money for food, clothes, medical items without being penalized. I don't have to be frightened anymore because this program exists without constant penalties, and I can finally save money for a rainy day!”

Raymond says “My CalABLE account gives me peace of mind that I can have hopes and dreams that will come to fruition.”

Bradley says “My CalABLE account reminds me that my future and my fun are within my control.”

Curtis says “CalABLE has given me peace of mind and the weight off of my chest to use the account for my finances.”

Hector says “Did you know that I use my CalABLE account to help with my mental health? Well, LA is pretty big and transportation is a big, big cost. So I use it to help with my transportation, my gas, my Metrolink, definitely my LA Metrocard. That’s what I use to get around. It helps me to really feel better.”

You can also find Héctor's video response on X

Tianni says “By being a CalABLE account holder it allows individuals to find joy, fulfillment, and purpose despite the physical challenges they face. By prioritizing mental health, individuals can engage in meaningful activities, pursue their passions, and lead a fulfilling life. By prioritizing mental health, individuals can enhance their overall well-being, resilience, and quality of life.”

Tianni says ''Dealing with a spinal cord injury (SCI) can be emotionally challenging. It may involve grief, frustration, anger, or sadness due to the significant life changes and physical limitations. Prioritizing mental health helps individuals navigate these emotions, cope with the psychological impact, and maintain a positive outlook on life. Living with a SCI often requires individuals to adapt to new circumstances, such as changes in mobility, independence, and daily routines. Mental health support provides tools and strategies to cope with these challenges, fostering resilience and helping individuals develop effective problem-solving skills. Mental well-being plays a vital role in the rehabilitation and recovery process after a SCI. It can positively impact motivation, adherence to therapy, and overall physical health outcomes. A strong focus on mental health can enhance the individual's engagement in rehabilitation, leading to better physical and functional outcomes.

Tianni says ''A SCI can affect an individual's self-esteem and body image due to changes in physical appearance or abilities. Prioritizing mental health helps individuals develop a positive self-image, accept their new reality, and build self-confidence. It encourages self-acceptance and focuses on inner strengths rather than solely relying on physical appearance. Mental health plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy relationships and seeking social support. It enables individuals to communicate their emotional needs effectively, establish strong support networks, and have open conversations with loved ones. Nurturing mental well-being helps individuals maintain fulfilling relationships and foster a sense of belonging. Mental health significantly impacts an individual's overall quality of life after a SCI.”

CalABLE 2024 Ambassadors Compilation

CalABLE is excited to launch our 2024 Ambassadors Compilation Video! This year's class of Ambassadors features Miguel, Curtis, Tianni, Adrienne, Charles, Steven, Raymond, and Otto. This 7-minute Compilation Video has new quotes and parts of their stories that you may not have heard before, so be sure to check it out!

And if you haven't already, be sure to visit our 2024 Ambassadors Playlist to watch their individual videos. The CalABLE Ambassadors are all amazing people with their own CalABLE stories to share!

Investment Videos

CalABLE has recently released two short videos focused on investing. These two videos can help you better understand risk, potential return, and CalABLE's 8 investment portfolios.

Basics of Saving and Investing

Want to learn more about investing? This 2-minute video will give you an overview of potential risk vs return.

CalABLE's Savings and Investment Options

This 4-minute video covers the 8 different savings and investment portfolios that CalABLE offers. Learn how you can use your savings goals and risk tolerance to make informed decisions regarding your investment choices.

Register for our June Webinar

Hands protectively covering a model of a house with family out front. Text says CalABLE and Social Security on June 12, 2024 from 2 - 3:30 PM PT. In this webinar, we will explore CalABLE basics; SSI, SSDI, and CalABLE; and Social Security Resources.

This webinar will be recorded. Please register to be notified when the recording is available.

Detalles del Seminario Web:

CalABLE y Seguro Social

12 de Junio de 2024

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM PT

En este seminario web exploraremos:

Fundamentos Básicos de CalABLE
Ingreso de Seguro Suplementario (SSI), Seguro de Discapacidad del Seguro Social (SSDI), y CalABLE
Recursos del Seguro Social

CalABLE and Medi-Cal

Join the conversation on social media

Screenshot of sixteen smiling people in a Zoom meeting. Caption says May CalABLE Ambassador Meeting.

Group picture from CalABLE's May Zoom Meeting with our Ambassadors

Anne and Thomas standing behind a CalABLE information table.

Thomas and Anne had a great time at the Statewide Self-Advocacy Conference hosted by Supported Life in Sacramento!

Madeline, Ashley, Dylan, and service dog sitting at a CalABLE information table.

Thank you to CalABLE Ambassador Ashley and Dylan for helping Madeline with the CalABLE booth at the Butte County SELPA Resource Fair!

Maria holding Spanish CalABLE brochures at a CalABLE information table.

Maria had a fantastic time at the Community Partner Fair in Ramona!

Upcoming CalABLE Events

9th Annual Carnival & Resource Fair: June 1 in Long Beach
Special Kids Family Picnic at Fairytale Town: June 1 in Sacramento
San Diego People First Conference: June 7 in San Diego
CalABLE Board Meeting: June 18 in Sacramento

And have a happy June, from the CalABLE team

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