Gratiot Integrated Health Network

10/24/2025

Versatility, adaptability, and compassion — three words that perfectly describe GIHN Medical Assistants Jo Anna and Lorinda. 💙 During Medical Assistant Recognition Week, we want to celebrate this dynamic duo and the dedication, skill, and heart they bring every day. Thank you for all that you do! WE APPRECIATE YOU!

10/24/2025

GIHN is proud to provide county-based mental health services built by and for the communities we serve. Local control means local accountability, trust, and care that puts people before profit. If you want these services to remain locally managed rather than turned over to private health plans, please contact your legislators and Governor Whitmer and make your voice heard.

10/24/2025

With the recent MDHHS announcement of a potential temporary pause in the issuance of November SNAP benefits, GIHN recognizes the very real hardship this may create for families and individuals throughout our community.

To help ease the burden, we are sharing a link that contains local food pantries for anyone affected by this government decision. If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity during this time, please know that support is available.

We stand with our community — no one should have to face this alone. 💙

10/23/2025

It’s 💚

Did you know that 1 in 6 people experience depression, yet only about 60% ever seek help?

If you are struggling, please know you are not alone — and you deserve support, compassion, and care. Hope is real. Healing is real. Reaching out is a powerful first step. 💚

GIHN Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 989-463-4971.

Let this month be a reminder: there is no shame in asking for help, and brighter days can be ahead.

10/22/2025

🌟 Transitioning out of school can feel overwhelming for young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities — and for their families, too.

At GIHN, we understand how big this step can be. Our team is here to walk alongside you, helping you explore community resources, supports, and opportunities that empower a strong start into adulthood. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone — we’re here to help every step of the way. 💙

If you’re beginning to plan for life after high school and aren’t sure where to start, give us a call — we’re here to support you and your family as you take the next step forward.

📞 Contact GIHN at 989-463-4971 to learn more.

📸 Pictured: Fiona Woodrow, Case Manager, and Cheri Ramirez, Autism Program Supervisor, at the 5th Annual Transition Expo hosted by the Gratiot Isabella RESD.

10/22/2025

💜 October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month! 💜

Every person with Rett Syndrome is unique — and so are their symptoms. Some may experience repetitive hand movements, seizures, scoliosis, digestive challenges, or breathing difficulties.

Signs often begin between 6 and 18 months, when a child may lose skills they had previously developed, such as speech or coordination.

While Rett Syndrome isn’t degenerative, it does require lifelong care and support. With proper medical attention, many individuals with Rett live well into adulthood and beyond. 💜

This month, let’s raise awareness, show support, and celebrate the strength of those living with Rett Syndrome and the families who care for them. 💜

10/16/2025

🚨 New Partnership Announcement! 🚨

Through a collaboration with the Alma Police Department, Gratiot Integrated Health Network (GIHN) is pleased to announce the launch of a Crisis Co-Responder program! 💙

This partnership pairs law enforcement officers with a trained behavioral health clinician who can respond directly to crises in real time—providing on-scene support and follow-up care when it’s needed most.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more supportive community—one response at a time. 💪💙

Pictured from left: Mark Williams, Alma Director of Public Safety; Casey Mueller, Alma Police Department Officer; Michelle Stillwagon, GIHN Chief Executive Officer; Isaiah Delgado, GIHN Co-Responder; Taylor Hirschman, GIHN Director of Quality Improvement; Joe Yourchock, GIHN Access/Crisis Program Supervisor; and Kendra Overla, Alma Chief of Police.

10/14/2025

💜 October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month! 💜

But what is Rett Syndrome? 🤔

It’s a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that affects girls almost exclusively. Fewer than 1,000 girls in the U.S. are diagnosed each year, and globally it happens in about 1 in 10,000 female births. 🌍

Rett Syndrome is caused by a mutation in the MECP2 gene on the X chromosome — a gene that controls many others. It was first identified by Dr. Andreas Rett in 1966. 🧬

Girls with Rett Syndrome may:
✨ Lose purposeful use of their hands
✨ Develop repetitive motions like hand-wringing, clapping, or washing gestures
✨ Experience challenges with speech, coordination, breathing, sleep, or seizures

💜 This month, GIHN honors those living with Rett Syndrome and the families, caregivers, and researchers supporting them. 💜

Let’s raise awareness together! 💜

10/12/2025

🌟 GIHN Community Highlight 🌟

RAD (R**e Aggression Defense) is a national self-defense program designed primarily for women, focusing on awareness, prevention, risk reduction, and physical defense techniques.

We’re proud to share that Sarah Bowman, our Clinical Director, is a trained instructor in this important program! 👏

Her ongoing involvement reflects GIHN’s commitment to supporting our community beyond behavioral health—empowering individuals with knowledge, safety, and confidence.

Thank you, Sarah, for your continued dedication and leadership! 💪💙

RAD Training was a success.
Thank you to the class participants for their dedication and to our area instructors: Ofc Mueller APD, Sarah Bowman GIHN, and Sara Krebs Child Advocacy for their commitment to personal safety education.

10/10/2025

💗 Supporting Our Community, Inside and Out 💗

At GIHN, our commitment to the community goes beyond behavioral health. This October, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our staff will be wearing pink every Friday to show support for those currently battling this disease and to honor the memory of those we’ve lost.

We understand that physical health and behavioral health go hand in hand—both are equally important to overall well-being.

Let’s stand together in hope, strength, and awareness. 💕

10/02/2025

🤔 Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at Gratiot Integrated Health Network?

Here’s your chance to find out!

Join us for our Board Meeting—a place where ideas turn into action for our community.

📅 Thursday, October 9, 2025
🕠 5:30 PM

Come see what we’re up to, ask questions, and get a closer look at how we’re working to make a difference. 💡✨

10/02/2025

🌟 Are you the parent or guardian of a transition-aged student with disabilities?

Looking to learn more about what resources and opportunities your community has to offer?

Join Gratiot Isabella RESD and a wide range of community exhibitors – including Gratiot Integrated Health Network – at the 5th Annual Transition Expo!

📅 Tuesday, October 21, 2025
🕠 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
📍 Winding Brooks Conference Centre

This is a great chance to connect with local organizations, explore services, and gather helpful information to support your child’s transition into adulthood. Don’t miss it!