| From | MCF <[email protected]> |
| Subject | MCF Newsletter: Special Ed Resources, Calming Apps and More |
| Date | May 18, 2020 11:49 AM |
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Connecting, Supporting and Empowering Maryland Families
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Volume 15 Issue 8
May 2020
This month we share:
Online Support Groups to Connect Maryland Families
When to Worry About Children's Screen Time
Special Education During School Closures
Family Resources for Substance Use Disorder During COVID-19
Enjoy the Great Outdoors, But Do It Safely
Top Free Apps to Help You Stay Calm, Mindful and Focused
Four Things You Need to Know About Maryland's Good Samaritan Law
Open Enrollment for Health Coverage Has Been Extended
Also included: upcoming trainings and events, employment opportunities, and links to Support Groups around the state.
MCF Offers Online Support Groups for Maryland Families
MCF now offers many online support groups
[link removed]
to provide a safe space for you to learn, share and receive compassionate help. All are facilitated by trained Family Peer Support Specialists who heave dealt with similar challenges in their own families. Current groups are available for:
Parents and caregivers of children with mental health challenges
Young adults ages 18-26 struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges
Anyone who cares for a person struggling with substance use (alcohol or drugs)
Parents who have lost a child to overdose
Anyone who cares about a person struggling with problem gambling
Groups are free for all participants and are held on different days of the week and different times of day.
Find one or more that can work for you and join us soon!
When to Worry About Children's Screen Time
With parents and children working and learning remotely, screen time is on the rise and many parents have relaxed the usual limits on activities like online gaming and using communication apps. During this time of parental multitasking, this is a reasonable compromise and each family needs to find what works for them. Given this, what should parents be concerned about and how can we protect our children from dangerous or inappropriate content, or even from developing an online gambling problem? There are some great ways to assess the risks and make sound decisions for your family.
Read More
[link removed]
Special Education During School Closures
On March 30th the Maryland State Department of Education issued guidance on the provision of special education services during school closures due to COVID-19. The guidelines state:
Schools should contact families with a child on an IEP to arrange a plan for services during school closure
Schools still need to provide a Free, Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to students with disabilities during school closure
Students remain entitled to related services on their IEP (such as speech therapy or counselling)
Read More
[link removed]
Family Resources for Substance Use Disorder During COVID-19
Families that struggle with substance use disorder are experiencing unique and increased challenges caused by the COVID-19 public health crisis. An additional concern is that the resources usually available to support these families are not available in the same way now. There are, however, many very effective online and remote alternatives to receive support.
Maryland Coalition of Families offers family peer support to any loved one caring for someone with a substance use disorder (alcohol or drugs) or a problem gambling issue.
Read More
[link removed]
Enjoy the Great Outdoors, But Do It Safely
During this time when many of us are stuck at home, remember that the great outdoors is still open! Spending time outside in nature is a perfect to de-stress, relax, and get some physical activity. As of May 7, Governor Hogan has loosened restrictions on many outdoor recreational activities, allowing sports such as golfing and tennis, fishing, hunting, boating, and horseback riding. Hiking, biking, and camping are also allowed in many of Maryland’s state parks, although social distancing guidelines must be strictly followed. While most state parks are open, some remain closed or have restricted areas. To enjoy them safely, choose a park nearest your home to limit travel and be sure to check the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website
[link removed]
before you leave for the park and read the guidelines for social distancing
[link removed]
in state parks.
Top Free Apps to Help You Stay Calm, Mindful and Focused
Here are three top-reviewed, free apps to boost your emotional well-being during these uncertain (but certainly stressful) times. Just remember that apps should be used as a supplement to mental health treatment-- not as a replacement. If you are having difficulty managing your thoughts or behaviors, seek the support of a professional.
For Meditation—Insight Timer
Insight Timer features guided meditations, music and talks posted by contributing experts. The app features the most extensive free library of guided meditations with over 27,000 titles provided by experts such as neuroscientists, psychologists, mindfulness teachers, as well as lecturers from Stanford University, Harvard University, and the University of Oxford. Find it in the Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]
For Anxiety—Breathe 2 Relax
Breathe2Relax is a stress management tool that teaches diaphragmatic breathing, a technique that's been shown to lower the heart rate, lower blood pressure, and help relieve stress. This type of breathing can help people who are experiencing panic, anxiety, PTSD, or anger. The app features videos, reading materials, and ways for users to track their progress.
Find it in the Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]
For Mindfulness—MyLife
The MyLife app recommends the activities that are right for you, whether you are anxious, sleepless, hopeful, or angry. Over 400 activities including meditation, breathing, yoga, guided journaling and more help you reduce stress, get more sleep and find your calm.
Find it in the Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]
.
Four Things You Need to Know About Maryland's Good Samaritan Law
Higher levels of stress and lack of recovery supports during COVID-19 can mean an increased risk of overdose for family and friends struggling with substance use issues. When the unthinkable happens and a drug or alcohol overdose is suspected, Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law provides a safety net for those seeking assistance for the victim.
Here are four essential things to know about the law:
The law is meant to encourage an observer to seek medical attention without fear of arrest or prosecution.
The law protects against prosecution for certain crimes, including: possessing or using a controlled dangerous substance, possessing or using drug paraphernalia, or providing alcohol to minors.
The law also applies to the victims of drug or alcohol overdose, when they receive medical assistance because someone else sought it for them.
The law does NOT cover persons witnessing the medical emergency if they are not helping with the emergency.
For more information about Maryland’s Good Samaritan law, click here
[link removed]
Open Enrollment for Health Coverage Has Been Extended
The Maryland Health Connection has established a Special Enrollment Period open to uninsured Marylanders who need health coverage. The open enrollment period will end on Wednesday, June 15. Visit MarylandHealthConnection.gov
[link removed]
or download the free Enroll MHC mobile app (from Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]), and select 'Coronavirus Emergency Special Enrollment Period' when applying. Free help is available by calling 1-855-642-8572 from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays.
For more information on Maryland Health Connection along with a list of frequently asked questions, visit the Maryland Insurance Administration’s website:
[link removed]
Also online:
Michael Phelps Foundation Expands Children's Mental Health Program
[link removed]
Policy Changes Could Bolster Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs
[link removed]
Are Video Games the Problem?
[link removed]
Strategies to Support Teens and Young Adults with ASD
[link removed]
Upcoming Trainings & Events:
Online Substance Use Workshop
This virtual training series will educate families and loved ones about substance use disorders. .
When: Thursdays, May 21 and May 28, 2020, 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Where: Online
Read More and Register
[link removed]
Family Fun and Games
Leave your struggles behind for a little while to have fun, laugh and play games. Children of all ages are welcome.
When: Every Friday, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Online
Read More and RSVP
[link removed]
Click here for further information on employment opportunities
[link removed]
Maryland Coalition of Families (MCF) helps families who care for someone with behavioral health needs. Using personal experience as parents, caregivers, youth and other loved ones, we connect, support and empower Maryland’s families. Our staff provide one-to-one support to parents and caregivers of young people with mental health issues and to any loved one who cares for someone with a substance use or gambling issue.
10632 Little Patuxent Pkwy Suite 234 | Columbia, MD 21044
Toll Free: (888) 607-3637 | Fax: (410) 730-8331
www.mdcoalition.org
[link removed]
| Connect on Facebook
[link removed]
Twitter
[link removed]
or LinkedIn
[link removed]
Join the Mailing List
[link removed]
DONATE TODAY
[link removed]
Copyright © 2018, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
Maryland Coalition of Families
10632 Little Patuxent Parkway
Suite 234
Columbia, MD 21044
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Volume 15 Issue 8
May 2020
This month we share:
Online Support Groups to Connect Maryland Families
When to Worry About Children's Screen Time
Special Education During School Closures
Family Resources for Substance Use Disorder During COVID-19
Enjoy the Great Outdoors, But Do It Safely
Top Free Apps to Help You Stay Calm, Mindful and Focused
Four Things You Need to Know About Maryland's Good Samaritan Law
Open Enrollment for Health Coverage Has Been Extended
Also included: upcoming trainings and events, employment opportunities, and links to Support Groups around the state.
MCF Offers Online Support Groups for Maryland Families
MCF now offers many online support groups
[link removed]
to provide a safe space for you to learn, share and receive compassionate help. All are facilitated by trained Family Peer Support Specialists who heave dealt with similar challenges in their own families. Current groups are available for:
Parents and caregivers of children with mental health challenges
Young adults ages 18-26 struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges
Anyone who cares for a person struggling with substance use (alcohol or drugs)
Parents who have lost a child to overdose
Anyone who cares about a person struggling with problem gambling
Groups are free for all participants and are held on different days of the week and different times of day.
Find one or more that can work for you and join us soon!
When to Worry About Children's Screen Time
With parents and children working and learning remotely, screen time is on the rise and many parents have relaxed the usual limits on activities like online gaming and using communication apps. During this time of parental multitasking, this is a reasonable compromise and each family needs to find what works for them. Given this, what should parents be concerned about and how can we protect our children from dangerous or inappropriate content, or even from developing an online gambling problem? There are some great ways to assess the risks and make sound decisions for your family.
Read More
[link removed]
Special Education During School Closures
On March 30th the Maryland State Department of Education issued guidance on the provision of special education services during school closures due to COVID-19. The guidelines state:
Schools should contact families with a child on an IEP to arrange a plan for services during school closure
Schools still need to provide a Free, Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to students with disabilities during school closure
Students remain entitled to related services on their IEP (such as speech therapy or counselling)
Read More
[link removed]
Family Resources for Substance Use Disorder During COVID-19
Families that struggle with substance use disorder are experiencing unique and increased challenges caused by the COVID-19 public health crisis. An additional concern is that the resources usually available to support these families are not available in the same way now. There are, however, many very effective online and remote alternatives to receive support.
Maryland Coalition of Families offers family peer support to any loved one caring for someone with a substance use disorder (alcohol or drugs) or a problem gambling issue.
Read More
[link removed]
Enjoy the Great Outdoors, But Do It Safely
During this time when many of us are stuck at home, remember that the great outdoors is still open! Spending time outside in nature is a perfect to de-stress, relax, and get some physical activity. As of May 7, Governor Hogan has loosened restrictions on many outdoor recreational activities, allowing sports such as golfing and tennis, fishing, hunting, boating, and horseback riding. Hiking, biking, and camping are also allowed in many of Maryland’s state parks, although social distancing guidelines must be strictly followed. While most state parks are open, some remain closed or have restricted areas. To enjoy them safely, choose a park nearest your home to limit travel and be sure to check the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website
[link removed]
before you leave for the park and read the guidelines for social distancing
[link removed]
in state parks.
Top Free Apps to Help You Stay Calm, Mindful and Focused
Here are three top-reviewed, free apps to boost your emotional well-being during these uncertain (but certainly stressful) times. Just remember that apps should be used as a supplement to mental health treatment-- not as a replacement. If you are having difficulty managing your thoughts or behaviors, seek the support of a professional.
For Meditation—Insight Timer
Insight Timer features guided meditations, music and talks posted by contributing experts. The app features the most extensive free library of guided meditations with over 27,000 titles provided by experts such as neuroscientists, psychologists, mindfulness teachers, as well as lecturers from Stanford University, Harvard University, and the University of Oxford. Find it in the Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]
For Anxiety—Breathe 2 Relax
Breathe2Relax is a stress management tool that teaches diaphragmatic breathing, a technique that's been shown to lower the heart rate, lower blood pressure, and help relieve stress. This type of breathing can help people who are experiencing panic, anxiety, PTSD, or anger. The app features videos, reading materials, and ways for users to track their progress.
Find it in the Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]
For Mindfulness—MyLife
The MyLife app recommends the activities that are right for you, whether you are anxious, sleepless, hopeful, or angry. Over 400 activities including meditation, breathing, yoga, guided journaling and more help you reduce stress, get more sleep and find your calm.
Find it in the Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]
.
Four Things You Need to Know About Maryland's Good Samaritan Law
Higher levels of stress and lack of recovery supports during COVID-19 can mean an increased risk of overdose for family and friends struggling with substance use issues. When the unthinkable happens and a drug or alcohol overdose is suspected, Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law provides a safety net for those seeking assistance for the victim.
Here are four essential things to know about the law:
The law is meant to encourage an observer to seek medical attention without fear of arrest or prosecution.
The law protects against prosecution for certain crimes, including: possessing or using a controlled dangerous substance, possessing or using drug paraphernalia, or providing alcohol to minors.
The law also applies to the victims of drug or alcohol overdose, when they receive medical assistance because someone else sought it for them.
The law does NOT cover persons witnessing the medical emergency if they are not helping with the emergency.
For more information about Maryland’s Good Samaritan law, click here
[link removed]
Open Enrollment for Health Coverage Has Been Extended
The Maryland Health Connection has established a Special Enrollment Period open to uninsured Marylanders who need health coverage. The open enrollment period will end on Wednesday, June 15. Visit MarylandHealthConnection.gov
[link removed]
or download the free Enroll MHC mobile app (from Apple App Store
[link removed]
or Google Play
[link removed]), and select 'Coronavirus Emergency Special Enrollment Period' when applying. Free help is available by calling 1-855-642-8572 from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays.
For more information on Maryland Health Connection along with a list of frequently asked questions, visit the Maryland Insurance Administration’s website:
[link removed]
Also online:
Michael Phelps Foundation Expands Children's Mental Health Program
[link removed]
Policy Changes Could Bolster Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs
[link removed]
Are Video Games the Problem?
[link removed]
Strategies to Support Teens and Young Adults with ASD
[link removed]
Upcoming Trainings & Events:
Online Substance Use Workshop
This virtual training series will educate families and loved ones about substance use disorders. .
When: Thursdays, May 21 and May 28, 2020, 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Where: Online
Read More and Register
[link removed]
Family Fun and Games
Leave your struggles behind for a little while to have fun, laugh and play games. Children of all ages are welcome.
When: Every Friday, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Online
Read More and RSVP
[link removed]
Click here for further information on employment opportunities
[link removed]
Maryland Coalition of Families (MCF) helps families who care for someone with behavioral health needs. Using personal experience as parents, caregivers, youth and other loved ones, we connect, support and empower Maryland’s families. Our staff provide one-to-one support to parents and caregivers of young people with mental health issues and to any loved one who cares for someone with a substance use or gambling issue.
10632 Little Patuxent Pkwy Suite 234 | Columbia, MD 21044
Toll Free: (888) 607-3637 | Fax: (410) 730-8331
www.mdcoalition.org
[link removed]
| Connect on Facebook
[link removed]
[link removed]
or LinkedIn
[link removed]
Join the Mailing List
[link removed]
DONATE TODAY
[link removed]
Copyright © 2018, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
Maryland Coalition of Families
10632 Little Patuxent Parkway
Suite 234
Columbia, MD 21044
unsubscribe from all emails
[link removed]
update subscription preferences
[link removed]
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- Sender: Maryland Coalition of Families
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- Country: United States
- State/Locality: Maryland
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