Kathy was her Name

Kathy’s 26th Birthday

On April 9th, we celebrated Kathy on her 26th birthday. We went to the cemetery with candles and a cupcake surrounded by some of her favorite candies on behalf of her brother. Kathy’s dad made a bouquet with her favorite flowers, and I knitted a hat for her.

Kathy loved knitting. She taught me how to knit, and one of our last photos together is of her teaching me how to crochet. On the night of her birthday, I completed the hat and placed it on her picture (pic above).

Our last Christmas with Kathy was in 2021, and I hand-knitted a blanket for her as a Christmas gift. She said the blanket felt like a warm hug, and she would wrap herself in it every night. She loved the blanket, and it is with her where she lays…still wrapping her like a warm hug. I know she cannot use the hat I made for her, but I hope she somehow knows it’s her birthday present and loves it as much as her blanket.

One Year Later

April 14th, five days after Kathy's birthday, was the one-year mark since she passed away. In remembrance of Kathy, I pick flowers from the garden and around the house for her every week. Before Kathy passed, I always took tons of pictures of her and continued to do so when I got her fresh flowers. These are some of the images from the last year.

What do you do to honor your loved ones who passed away? 

If you want to share your stories, please email michelle@inhernamekp.org

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

May is mental health awareness month, a time to reflect on ways to help others struggling with their mental health. It is essential to prioritize mental health support and make resources readily available. This includes improving access to affordable mental healthcare and increasing funding for mental health programs. It also includes ensuring that schools, workplaces, and communities have comprehensive mental health services and support systems. Early intervention, counseling services, helplines, and crisis intervention programs can all play a crucial role in preventing suicides.

What is a Sensory Self-Soothing Kit?

A sensory self-soothing kit provides a range of tools and resources that engage the senses and offer comfort and relaxation. The kit can include the following: 

1. Fidget toys

2. Stress balls or squishy toys

3. Aromatherapy items 

4. Calming visual aids

5. Noise-canceling headphones

6. Guided meditation or relaxation recordings

By using the items in the kit, you can develop self-regulation skills. Also, you can redirect your focus and find a sense of calm during challenging moments or when feeling overwhelmed. 

You can create a kit based on personal preferences and individual needs or email info@inhernamkp.org for a free kit. Free kits will be sent to individuals in the US only. All other requests will receive step-by-step instructions on how to make a kit. 

Males Make Up 80% of Suicides

According to the CDC, the US suicide rate among males in 2021 was approximately four times higher than the rate among females. Males make up 50% of the population but nearly 80% of suicides.

If you are suffering from mental health issues, please say something to your loved ones and seek help from a mental health professional. Hiding depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues is not the solution; help and support are available.

Click here to read more.

Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation

The US Surgeon General's Advisory released a report on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community titled "Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation." The report highlighted the alarming increase in loneliness and isolation in modern society and the negative effects on physical and mental health. 

According to the US Surgeon General, people feel isolated, invisible, and insignificant. Even when they couldn't put their finger on the word "lonely." People of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds in the US stated, "If I disappear tomorrow, no one will even notice."

Click to read the full report.

Click to read our key take-aways from the report.

School Bus Bullying Prevention

Bullying can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or social status. Its impact can extend far beyond feelings of fear and humiliation, leading to severe consequences such as depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

It is vital to take action and address bullying head-on. Here are a few steps to prevent and stop bullying: 

• Speak up

• Support the victim

• Encourage others to speak up

• Educate others

• Get involved

• Hold bullies accountable

  
  

Click here to learn about how to prevent school bus bullying. Shout-out to Joey and his teacher Ms. Danica for sharing this resource page at Transfinder.com.

Talking about Mental Illness

Mental illness is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects many people worldwide. It is important to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage individuals to seek treatment when needed.

Let’s start normalizing conversations about mental illness so people suffering in silence can feel safe and comfortable to ask for help. We also need to learn how to actively listen to the ones asking for help. Pay attention to their words, and let them feel heard. They will tell you where and how it hurts. Let’s start talking about mental illness, so suicide is no longer an option.

Depression Can Lead to Suicide

People with depression tend to feel ashamed or scared to ask for help. They  pretend to smile, laugh, listen, etc. Everything might look great on the outside, but they are slowly slipping away on the inside.

The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person. However, common signs include a persistent sad or empty mood and feelings of hopelessness. They might also feel a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. In some cases, depression can also lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Learn the warning signs and symptoms and check on your loved ones before it’s too late.

You Are Enough

Understanding the depth of someone's pain can be challenging without knowing what's happening inside their head. However, being kind and understanding can be priceless to someone suffering in secret.

If you suspect your child is struggling with their mental health, it's crucial to approach them with compassion and understanding. Ask how they feel, listen to their responses, let them know you care, and, more importantly, seek help from a mental health professional.