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| Volume 12 Issue 2 |
September 2022 |
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This month we share:
Also included: upcoming trainings and events and employment opportunities.
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How to Support Someone You Love in Recovery
September is Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the accomplishments of those in recovery from substance use disorder, as well as the family and friends who are supporting them along their journey.
At MCF, we know firsthand that having a loved one with a substance use disorder is a difficult situation. The worry, fear, hopelessless and anger can be emotionally draining. If you care about someone with a drug or alcohol addiction, our staff have some great advice to keep in mind as you support your loved one:
- Open communication and honesty are essential. Tell your loved one how you feel and how much you love them.
- Remember that addiction is a disease. Recovery from a substance use disorder is a slow process filled with ups and downs.
- Be consistent in your support and encouragement for your loved one, even when you feel angry, disappointed or impatient with their progress.
Read More Online
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Welcome New Program Manager, Mesha Newton!
We are pleased to welcome our new Program Manager, Mesha Newton, to MCF! In this role, Mesha will be overseeing four of MCF's team supervisors. She comes to us from the Living Classrooms Foundation, where she held the position of Program Director of Fresh Start.
Mesha has a dual master's degree in HR Development/Management & Leadership, a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, and an associate's degree in Criminology.
"I am so excited to be part of Maryland Coalition of Families," Mesha stated. "And looking forward to using my skills and experience to make a statewide impact."
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The Use of Atypical Antipsychotics in Children and Adolescents: What Parents and Caregivers Should Know
The use of atypical antipsychotic medications in children and adolescents has increased dramatically over the last decade. Often, these medications are being prescribed for "off label" uses, meaning conditions for which the drugs have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This practice is legal, but it means that parents and caregivers must be especially mindful of the effect the medication is having on their child.
The prescribing of atypical antipsychotics to treat disorders in children is controversial. With so few studies on their use in children and the significant side effects that can accompany these medications, caution is advisable. Parents should learn all they can about potential medications so they can make the most informed decisions for their child and family.
Read More Online
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Instead of Pulling Out Your Phone, Let Your Mind Wander
If you commute on a bus or train, you've probably noticed that most people spend the ride looking at their cell phones. No doubt, they assume doing nothing but sit there would be boring, so they prefer distracting themselves. This squares with past research showing people will do almost anything to avoid boredom--even administer electric shocks to themselves.
But results from new research suggest we should rethink that choice. We are probably underestimating how enjoyable and interesting it is to do nothing but pay attention to wherever our thoughts take us.
Read the Article from Greater Good Magazine
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Get Connected With Our Online and In-Person Support Groups
 MCF offers many support groups to provide a safe space for you to learn, share and receive compassionate help. All are facilitated by trained Family Peer Support Specialists who have dealt with similar challenges in their own families. Current groups are available for:
- Parents and caregivers of children with behavioral health challenges
- Young adults ages 18-26 with behavioral health challenges
- Anyone who cares for a person with a substance use issue (alcohol or drugs)
- Parents who have lost a child to overdose
- Anyone who cares for 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!
Find a Support Group
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Also online:
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Upcoming Trainings & Events:
The Brain and the Disease of Addiction
Join us for this free webinar in partnership with Maryland ROTA and learn how the brain changes in response to addiction and how the brain is affected by drugs and alcohol.
When: Wednesday, September 21
Time: 12:00 to 1:00 PM
Where: Online via Zoom
Register at: rota_back2school.eventbrite.com
Terps EXCEED: College for Students with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism
Meredith Gramlich, UMD Faculty Specialist, will provide an overview of the TerpsEXCEED program, an includive post-secondary program at the University of Maryland, College Park.
When: Wednesday, September 21
Time: 6:00 to 7:00 PM
Where: Online via Zoom
Register at: https://go.mdcoalition.org/e/312281/3KQJONC/kpngn/1892506135?h=FJNkn0y2zyorJl0OVfs7ywoCR6vGW3-wujs2OjbjI_o
Understanding and Supporting Children with ADHD
for Families in St. Mary's, Calvert and Charles Counties
In this free workshop, parents and caregivers will learn the 5 C’s of ADHD parenting based on Dr. Sharon Saline’s book "What your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew: Self-Control, Compassion, Collaboration, Consistency and Celebration."
When: Thursday, September 22
Time: 6:30 to 7:30 PM
Where: Leonardtown Library, 23630 Hayden Farms Ln., Leonardtown
Register at: https://go.mdcoalition.org/e/312281/s-detail-7016T000002TU71/kpngr/1892506135?h=FJNkn0y2zyorJl0OVfs7ywoCR6vGW3-wujs2OjbjI_o
Skating for Recovery Garrett/Allegany County
Join us for a family-friendly roller skating event to celebrate recovery at Star-Lite Roller Skating Center in Lanvale. This event is for those in recovery and their loved ones, including kids.
When: Saturday, September 24
Time: 7:30 to 10:30 PM
Where: Star-Lite Roller Skating Center, 100 National Hwy., Lanvale, MD
Register at: https://go.mdcoalition.org/e/312281/s-detail-7012M000002GvuX/kpngv/1892506135?h=FJNkn0y2zyorJl0OVfs7ywoCR6vGW3-wujs2OjbjI_o
Rollin' for Recovery Baltimore
Join us for a family-friendly roller skating event to celebrate recovery at Skateland Putty Hill in Baltimore. This event is for those in recovery and their loved ones, including kids.
When: Wednesday, September 28
Time: 6:00 to 9:00 PM
Where: Skateland Putty Hill, 8019 Balair Rd., Baltimore, MD
Register at: https://go.mdcoalition.org/e/312281/3A5uybW/kpngy/1892506135?h=FJNkn0y2zyorJl0OVfs7ywoCR6vGW3-wujs2OjbjI_o
For a complete list of upcoming workshops and events, please visit our events page.
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MCF Employment Opportunities
MCF is growing, and we have employment opportunities that might be perfect for you or someone you know! We currently have openings in many areas of the State. Please check our website for a complete list of openings.
Statewide/Central Office:
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