Mezamé (2025)

17/07/2024

Life can throw us unexpected challenges, and we might not always have the best "hand." But remember, it's not about the cards we're dealt, but how we play them. Embrace resilience, practice self-care, and focus on your mental health. You have the strength to navigate through tough times and come out stronger.

15/07/2024

Get outside and enjoy the summer weather! Staying active boosts your physical and mental health. Here are some tips and activities for everyone, including both able-bodied and disabled individuals:

Walking or Rolling: Take a walk or roll in a wheelchair-friendly park. Fresh air and nature can improve your mood and energy levels.

Swimming: Swimming is a great low-impact exercise. Many pools have accessible options for people with disabilities.

Yoga or Stretching: Yoga can be adapted for all abilities. Try chair yoga or simple stretching exercises to stay flexible and relaxed.

Gardening: Gardening can be therapeutic and a good physical activity. Raised garden beds can make this activity accessible for those with mobility issues.

Dance: Put on your favorite music and dance! There are adaptive dance classes available online for different abilities.

Mindfulness Walks: Combine physical activity with mental health benefits by practicing mindfulness while you walk or roll, focusing on your surroundings and breathing.

Did you know that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise can improve mental health? Exercise releases endorphins, which help reduce stress and anxiety. Whether you're able-bodied or have a disability, there are plenty of ways to stay active and healthy this summer.

Stay active, stay healthy, and enjoy the summer! ☀

12/07/2024

Celebrating Disability Pride Month!

This month, we honor the diversity and achievements of people with disabilities. Fun fact: The first Disability Pride Parade was held in Boston in 1990. We recognize that not all of us are free and able, and those who are have the privilege and responsibility to support those who do not have the same advantages.

Let's come together to celebrate and support our friends, family, and community members with disabilities. Here are some meaningful ways you can get involved:

Educate Yourself: Learn about the history and significance of Disability Pride Month and the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

Amplify Voices: Share stories, posts, and content from disabled creators and activists. Give their voices the platform they deserve.

Advocate for Accessibility: Promote and support initiatives that improve accessibility in public spaces, workplaces, and online.

Volunteer: Offer your time to organizations that support people with disabilities.

Be Inclusive: Ensure your actions, language, and attitudes are inclusive and respectful of everyone’s abilities.

Donate: Support charities and non-profits that work towards disability rights and support services.

Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world

10/07/2024

Life's journey is a blend of highs and lows, but the truest happiness isn't found in having everything perfect—it's in cherishing every twist and turn along the way.

Amidst life's challenges, we have the power to shape our joy by embracing each moment with gratitude and resilience.

Let's prioritize mental wellness by making the most of what we have, finding beauty in the simplest of things, and fostering a mindset of abundance. Together, let's navigate this journey with courage and grace!

08/07/2024

July is BIPOC Mental Health Month!

In July 2008, journalist and advocate Bebe Moore Campbell brought national attention to the mental health needs of Black, Latinx, and other communities of color. Now known as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, this time is for reflecting on progress and ongoing challenges.

NAMI is leading the conversation with two revamped programs: Sharing Hope for the Black community and Compartiendo Esperanza for the Latinx population. NAMI Illinois is proud to help launch these programs, starting with Sharing Hope.

The new Sharing Hope video series covers:

Challenges faced by Black youth
How Black community leaders define hope
Healing within Black families
Each video, 9-11 minutes long, is paired with community-led discussions to address personal, family, and social issues, aiming to connect underserved areas with mental health resources.

Compartiendo Esperanza also offers updated resources for Latinx communities, available soon via nami.org. For more information on becoming a facilitator or hosting a presentation, contact Laura Martinez at lauramartinez@namiillinois.org.

Support mental health equity!

04/07/2024

Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸

Let's celebrate our freedom and unity with family, friends, and fireworks while still recognizing we have a lot of work to continue to do as a country to allow everyone to have the freedom to be who they are.

Stay safe and have fun!

Please note that in observance of Independence Day, we will be closed today

01/07/2024

These words serve as a powerful reminder that happiness is not determined by external circumstances, but by our mindset and outlook on life.

No matter what challenges or obstacles we may face, there is always an opportunity to find joy, gratitude, and fulfillment in the present moment. It's about embracing life with open arms, making the most of every experience, and finding beauty in the simple things.

Let's strive to cultivate a mindset of positivity and resilience, focusing on what we can control and finding silver linings in every situation. By doing so, we can unlock the key to true happiness and fulfillment, regardless of our circumstances.

Today, let's choose to make the most of everything that comes our way, and let happiness be our guiding light.

27/06/2024

As PTSD Awareness Month comes to a close, we want to shine a light on a powerful therapy: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that has been proven effective in treating trauma and PTSD. By reprocessing distressing memories and experiences, EMDR helps individuals reduce the emotional distress associated with traumatic events and create new, more adaptive beliefs about themselves and their experiences.

As we wrap up this month of awareness, let's remember that healing is possible, and support is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD or trauma-related symptoms, consider reaching out to a trained EMDR therapist for support.

Together, let's continue to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and advocate for access to effective treatments like EMDR. Every step we take brings us closer to a world where trauma survivors can find the support and healing they deserve.

25/06/2024

These words remind us that happiness is not something to be pursued as an end in itself, but rather a natural consequence of living a fulfilling and meaningful life.

When we focus on pursuing our passions, nurturing our relationships, and aligning our actions with our values, happiness naturally follows. It's found in the simple moments of joy, the connections we make with others, and the sense of purpose that drives us forward.

So, rather than chasing after happiness as an elusive goal, let's focus on living authentically, embracing each moment with gratitude and intention. By cultivating a life rich in purpose and meaning, we create the conditions for happiness to flourish.

Today, let's choose to live wholeheartedly, knowing that happiness is not something we seek, but something we create along the way.

21/06/2024

Happy National Yoga Day!

Today, we celebrate the ancient practice of yoga and its profound benefits for the mind, body, and soul. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, remember: if you can breathe, you can do yoga.

At the heart of yoga is the breath—the simple act of inhaling and exhaling. By focusing on your breath, you can cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and find inner peace, both on and off the mat.

Yoga teaches us to connect with our breath, to ground ourselves in the present moment, and to listen to our bodies with compassion and kindness. It's a practice that meets you where you are, offering a path to self-discovery, strength, and resilience.

So, today and every day, take a moment to breathe deeply, to center yourself, and to honor your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you're practicing yoga poses, meditation, or simply focusing on your breath, know that you're nourishing your well-being from the inside out.

Happy National Yoga Day!

19/06/2024

Today, we celebrate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and honor the resilience, strength, and perseverance of those who fought for freedom. While Juneteenth marks a significant milestone in our history, it's essential to recognize that our journey towards equality and justice is far from over.

As we commemorate this day, let's also reflect on the work that still needs to be done. Let's commit to fighting against systemic racism, advocating for equality, and creating a more inclusive society for all.

Here are some ways we can celebrate Juneteenth year-round:

- Educate yourself and others about the significance of Juneteenth and its impact on American history.
- Support Black-owned businesses and organizations in your community.
- Engage in conversations about race, privilege, and social justice with friends, family, and colleagues.
- Volunteer or donate to organizations working towards racial equity and justice.
- Advocate for policy changes that address systemic racism and promote equality for all.

Please note that in observance of Juneteenth, we will be closed today. Let's use this time to reflect, learn, and continue our commitment to creating a more just and equitable world.

16/06/2024

Today, we celebrate the strength, love, and guidance that you provide each and every day. Your wisdom and support shape the lives of those around you, and we're grateful for everything you do.

However, we also acknowledge that Father's Day can be a difficult time for some. To those who have lost their fathers, those who have strained relationships with their fathers, and those who yearn to be fathers themselves, we see you. Your feelings are valid, and you're not alone.

Let's use today as an opportunity to spread love and kindness to all, regardless of their circumstances. Whether you're celebrating with your dad, honoring his memory, or simply taking care of yourself, know that you are cherished and appreciated.

To every father and father figure, thank you for the impact you make in our lives. Your presence is a gift, and we're grateful to have you.

14/06/2024

We want to introduce our team of dedicated EMDR therapists, ready to support you on your journey towards mental wellness!

Meet our team of compassionate professionals, each bringing their unique expertise and passion to the table. If you're in Illinois and seeking therapy, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help!

Don't wait to take the first step towards healing. Reach out today to schedule your appointment and embark on a path towards a brighter tomorrow.

12/06/2024

These words remind us of the profound wisdom found in embracing life's contrasts. Even in the depths of darkness or amidst the silence, there are wonders to be discovered and lessons to be learned.

In moments of struggle or uncertainty, finding contentment can seem like an insurmountable challenge. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that we have the opportunity to cultivate resilience, gratitude, and inner peace.

Let's strive to find beauty in the midst of chaos, to seek solace in moments of silence, and to embrace the full spectrum of human experience with open hearts and minds.

Today, let's practice contentment, knowing that within every state of being, there is the potential for growth, understanding, and profound moments of wonder.

10/06/2024

June is Men's Health Month, and here's a reminder: mental health is health!

This month, we're highlighting the importance of mental well-being for men. Mental Health America has put together an insightful infographic outlining the 5 major mental health problems that could be impacting men. If you resonate with any of these, know that help is available.

Check out the infographic here: https://www.mhanational.org/infographic-mental-health-men

Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether it's talking to a therapist, reaching out to a friend, or exploring self-care strategies, prioritize your mental health journey.

Together, let's break the stigma and create a culture where men feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.

07/06/2024

June marks PTSD Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the challenges faced by those living with post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced trauma, from veterans to survivors of abuse or natural disasters. Let's come together to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide support to those in need. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels understood, accepted, and supported on their journey to healing.

31/05/2024

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end, remember: your mental health matters today and always.

Every day won't be sunshine and rainbows, and that's okay. What's important is that you prioritize your well-being and use the supports and coping skills available to you.

Whether it's reaching out to a friend, practicing mindfulness, or seeking professional help, there are countless ways to take care of your mental health. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and don't underestimate the power of self-care.

As we bid farewell to Mental Health Awareness Month, let's carry the message of awareness, understanding, and support with us every day. Together, we can create a world where mental health is recognized, valued, and prioritized.

Remember, you are not alone, and your journey to wellness is worth it.

29/05/2024

These words offer a profound insight into the impact of our actions on our mental well-being. Sometimes, it's not the action itself that weighs heavy on our hearts, but the ripple effect it creates within us.

As we navigate life's challenges, let's remember to pay attention to the person we're becoming in the process. Are our actions aligned with our values and beliefs? Are we nurturing our mental health and prioritizing self-care?

It's okay to stumble along the way, to make mistakes, and to learn from them. What's important is that we remain mindful of the consequences of our actions and take proactive steps to cultivate a positive and healthy mindset.

Today, let's reflect on the person we aspire to be and take intentional steps towards that vision. Let's choose kindness, empathy, and compassion for ourselves and others, knowing that each action shapes the person we become.

Mezamé