IDMH: The Institute for Disaster Mental Health

IDMH: The Institute for Disaster Mental Health "Helping in a Time of Crisis"

The Institute for Disaster Mental Health (IDMH) seeks to address the diversity of disaster mental health demands in the region, state, nation, and the global community so that all those impacted by disaster and trauma have access to the mental health support they need. To accomplish this goal, IDMH provides leadership to advance the field of disaster mental health and trauma response through train

ing, research, consultation, and service. IDMH works to establish and disseminate best practices in order to ensure that all disaster mental health services are evidence-supported and culturally sensitive.

📰 IDMH in the News!We’re proud to share that Dr. Robin Jacobowitz, Interim Director of the Institute for Disaster Mental...
07/10/2025

đź“° IDMH in the News!
We’re proud to share that Dr. Robin Jacobowitz, Interim Director of the Institute for Disaster Mental Health, was interviewed for this article exploring the mental health impact of disasters on first responders—highlighted by the recent floods in Texas.

Dr. Jacobowitz shares valuable insights on the importance of sustained mental health support for those on the front lines.

Read the full article here 👉
https://apnews.com/article/texas-floods-search-first-responders-mental-health-33fc7cb66093694d380e5d95a9b72d98



Join us today for the Safety and Wellness Expo from 11-4
06/11/2025

Join us today for the Safety and Wellness Expo from 11-4

The New York State Bridge Authority and the Institute for Disaster Mental Health, warmly invites you to the  Stronger To...
06/10/2025

The New York State Bridge Authority and the Institute for Disaster Mental Health, warmly invites you to the Stronger Together: Hudson Valley Public Safety & Wellness Expo on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

This energizing and essential gathering will bring together public safety professionals and community members from across the region for a day of learning, connection and shared purpose. Join us as we explore key topics that shape our collective well-being—mental wellness, security innovation, and community resilience.

Event Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2025 11am-4pm
Location: SUNY New Paltz
Address: West Parking Lot 37
1 Hawk Drive
New Paltz NY 12561

Together, we are stronger. We look forward to seeing you there.

The New York State Bridge Authority and the Institute for Disaster Mental Health, warmly invites you to the  Stronger To...
06/03/2025

The New York State Bridge Authority and the Institute for Disaster Mental Health, warmly invites you to the Stronger Together: Hudson Valley Public Safety & Wellness Expo on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

This energizing and essential gathering will bring together public safety professionals and community members from across the region for a day of learning, connection and shared purpose. Join us as we explore key topics that shape our collective well-being—mental wellness, security innovation, and community resilience.

Engage with Leaders: Hear from and interact with top voices in public safety, mental health and emergency response.

Experience Interactive Exhibits: Explore cutting-edge tools, programs and resources designed to strengthen safety and wellness.

Build Meaningful Connections: Network with dedicated professionals, first responders, advocates and community members dedicated to creating safer, healthier communities.

Exchange Best Practices: Participate in conversations that spark innovation and promote effective, compassionate strategies for fostering resilience and well-being in our communities.

Explore Career Opportunities: Meet with representatives from local and state agencies and discover paths to meaningful service.

đź“… Event Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2025 11am-4pm
📍 Location: SUNY New Paltz
Address: West Parking Lot 37
1 Hawk Drive
New Paltz NY 12561

Together, we are stronger. We look forward to seeing you there.

Ulster County Mental Health ResourcesIf you or someone you know is seeking mental health support in Ulster County, NY, h...
05/08/2025

Ulster County Mental Health Resources

If you or someone you know is seeking mental health support in Ulster County, NY, here are some available resources:

Crisis Support:
✨Ulster County Mobile Mental Health Team: Provides telephone support, in-person outreach, and crisis intervention. (844) 277-4820 (10am-10pm 7 days a week)
✨Family of Woodstock: Offers confidential 24/7 hotline service. Call or text 845-679-2485
✨HealthAlliance Hospital Psychiatric Emergency Department: For immediate psychiatric emergencies. 845-338-2500

General Mental Health Services:
✨Ulster County Department of Mental Health: Offers various mental health services and can guide you to appropriate resources. 845-340-4110 https://ulstercountyny.gov/mental-health
✨Mental Health Association in Ulster County: Provides educational, advocacy, and service programs, including adult residential services and support groups. https://www.mhainulster.com/ 845-336-4747
✨Access: Supports for Living: Offers developmental disabilities and behavioral health services, including the Mobile Mental Health Team and Mental Health & Substance Use Urgent Care. https://accesssupports.org/ 888-750-2266

Support for Children and Families:
✨Astor Services for Children & Families: Provides mental health services tailored for children and families. https://www.astorservices.org/ 845-871-1000
✨Coordinated Children’s Services (Ulster County DSS): A free program serving children and youth up to age 17, working collaboratively to support families and reduce at-risk behavior. 845-334-5050 https://ulstercountyny.gov/social-services/coordinated-childrens-services

Support Groups and Additional Resources:
✨NAMI Mid-Hudson: Offers support groups and resources for individuals and families affected by mental illness. https://namimidhudson.org/support-and-education/support-groups/ 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. If you or someone you know is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to these resources. Your mental well-being matters. đź’™

Save the Date! 🌟 On October 14, 2025, the Institute for Disaster Mental Health and NYS Division of Homeland Security and...
05/02/2025

Save the Date! 🌟 On October 14, 2025, the Institute for Disaster Mental Health and NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will host the 20th Annual IDMH Conference: The Winding Road – Sustaining Recovery and Resilience in Disaster-Affected Communities.

This one-day event continues a proud tradition of bringing together world-class speakers and experts from across disciplines to explore the often-overlooked challenges of long-term disaster recovery. From mental health professionals to first responders and community leaders, attendees will gain practical tools and insights to support sustainable resilience efforts.

Recovery doesn’t end when the news cycle moves on—it’s a winding road of rebuilding lives, well-being, and community strength. Join us as we dive deep into what it really takes to recover and thrive.

May is almost here, and we’re gearing up to share resources, practical tips, and meaningful conversations to support men...
04/29/2025

May is almost here, and we’re gearing up to share resources, practical tips, and meaningful conversations to support mental well-being. But mental health isn’t just for one month—it’s a year-round priority!

Follow us now so you don’t miss out on ways to build resilience, practice self-care, and support those around you. Let’s break the stigma together! 💚

🌿 How IDMH Staff Find Calm & Stay Present 🌿At the Institute for Disaster Mental Health, we know how important it is to t...
04/24/2025

🌿 How IDMH Staff Find Calm & Stay Present 🌿

At the Institute for Disaster Mental Health, we know how important it is to take a pause and care for our mental well-being. Here’s how some of our team members like to recharge:

✨ “I start each day with movement to ground myself and turn to word games when I need a mental reset. I rely on small moments of care that help me stay centered and clear through the day.” -Robin Jacobowitz

✨ “I enjoy getting into nature and savoring the local beauty of the Catskill Mountains with my partner and dogs. While at home, I spend time cooking and experimenting with new recipes, as well as doing woodworking and amateur watch repair to engage in some creative activities.” -Andrew O’Meara

✨ “When stress hits, I find calm by staying present—one card at a time. Weekly board games and card nights with my kids = my happy place.” -Anastasia Shown

✨ “I almost always have jazz music playing softly at work and home—it keeps me calm and focused. On particularly stressful days, I go for a short walk with my husband and dogs. Feeling the fresh air and soaking in the natural beauty around me always helps regulate my system and lift my mood.” -Chrissy Lawlor

How do you stay present and find calm during the day? Let us know in the comments below.

Introducing Happy Headspace!✨Free subscription boxes full of fun surprises for SUNY New Paltz students!Whether you’re in...
04/17/2025

Introducing Happy Headspace!✨

Free subscription boxes full of fun surprises for SUNY New Paltz students!

Whether you’re in a residence hall, club, Greek life, or just a group of friends—everyone’s welcome! It's a creative way to connect, de-stress, and enjoy some happy vibes. 💛

Sponsored by the Student Health Center & the Institute for Disaster Mental Health.

Use this link to order your kit!
https://newpaltz.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e9SJPKGLqvaytGC?Q_CHL=qr

Leadership Update at IDMH!!We want to express our deepest gratitude to Dr. Amy Nitza for her dedication and leadership a...
04/15/2025

Leadership Update at IDMH!!

We want to express our deepest gratitude to Dr. Amy Nitza for her dedication and leadership at the IDMH. Her impact on the field and our community has been invaluable, and we wish her all the best in her next chapter!

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Robin Jacobowitz has stepped in as Interim Director. With her experience and commitment to our mission, IDMH will continue its important work in disaster mental health, resilience, and preparedness.

Stay tuned for updates as we move forward in this transition! đź’™

This week is  ! KINSHIP creates a bridge between survivors, between advocates, between organizations and the people they...
04/07/2025

This week is ! KINSHIP creates a bridge between survivors, between advocates, between organizations and the people they serve, and between community members working to create safe spaces for victims of crime. Learn how you and your community can embrace KINSHIP to ensure no one walks their healing path alone.

www.ovc.ojp.gov/ncvrw2025

Last week, IDMH trained six professionals from Puerto Rico and one colleague from Buffalo to become Psychological First ...
04/01/2025

Last week, IDMH trained six professionals from Puerto Rico and one colleague from Buffalo to become Psychological First Aid (PFA) trainers, equipping them to provide critical support in their communities. Their work will expand access to PFA across Puerto Rico, strengthening local resilience and mental health response efforts.

This initiative builds on the important work IDMH has been doing in Puerto Rico through the SAMHSA Grant, to provide sustainable, community-led support for disaster-affected communities.

We’re honored to be part of this effort and inspired by these future trainers who are stepping up to make a difference! 💙

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New Paltz, NY

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