BLOG FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Beyond the Battlefield: The Ripple Effects of War
Beyond the Battlefield: The Ripple Effects of War
War's impact extends far beyond the frontlines. The families of service members carry a significant burden, facing anxieties during deployments and the emotional toll of potential loss. Children of veterans may grapple with the unseen wounds of war, witnessing the emotional strain on their parents. Additionally, veterans themselves may struggle with reintegration into civilian life, experiencing physical injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and difficulty adjusting to a world seemingly unchanged by their sacrifice.
The ripples of war touch entire communities. Infrastructure destruction disrupts access to basic necessities like clean water and food, leading to disease outbreaks and malnutrition. Education systems may crumble, hindering opportunities for future generations. War can also displace millions, creating a global refugee crisis with economic and social consequences for host countries.
Mental health professionals play a crucial role in supporting not just veterans, but also families and communities affected by war. Creating safe spaces for individuals to process trauma, develop coping mechanisms, and rebuild their lives is essential for long-term healing.
Veteran Focused Mental Healt Resources:
The National Center for PTSD: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/
The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS): https://www.taps.org/
The Wounded Warrior Project: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
Refugee Resources:
International Rescue Committee: https://www.rescue.org/
Survivors of Torture International: https://www.taps.org/
Center of Victims of Torture: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
By acknowledging the multifaceted impact of war, we can foster greater empathy and understanding. Memorial Day becomes a call to action, not just to honor the fallen but to support those who continue to bear the burdens of conflict. Let's commit to building a future where war becomes a relic of the past, and the sacrifices made are never forgotten.
Jobs in Mental Health Alerts Week 21 Presented by Reed-Fier Therapy Services
Job Postings Tuesday May 21, 2024
1. Crisis Counselor
Company: Center for Pacific Asian Family
Location: Los Angeles, California
Keywords: Crisis counselor, counseling, AAPNHI
2. Psycho-therapist
Company: Sutter Health
Location: Sunnyvale and San Jose, CA
Keywords: healthcare, behavioral health, Pamf, PAMF Pediatrics
3. Deputy Director of Behavioral Health Services
Company: County of Santa Clara
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Keywords: behavioral health, healthcare, public administration,
4. Specialist - Mental Health and Psychosocial Services Emergency Response Team (MHPSS)
Company: International Medical Corps
Location: Global
Keywords: Emergency response, disaster response, MHPSS, BHPSS, emergency response.
5. Director of Programs - USAID, Global Health Programs and Behavioral Response
Company: World Vision International
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Keywords: social, education, MHPSS, global health, WorldVision
RFTS Job alerts - Week 19
Happy Sunday!
In today’s job market there is such variety in the mental health field. From field work to healthcare management you have quite the opportunities available. For more details please click on the links below. These jobs are mostly located in California, Colorado, Lebanon, and Nepal.
California and Colorado Positions
Clinical Supervisor - Part Time - Palo Alto University - MA in Counseling Program
Type: Supervisor in a master clinical counseling program.
Apply Here
Refugee Mental Health Psychotherapist Part-Time - Jewish Family Services - Denver
Type: Refugee Mental Health, humanitarian mental health, community mental health, refugee resettlement.
Apply Here
Psychotherapist II - Full-Time - Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
Type: Trauma Psychology Program
Apply Here
Licensed Care Providers / Associate Care Providers - Caring Connected - Los Angeles
Type: Private Practice
Apply Here
International Positions:
Mental Health Psychosocial Services (MHPSS) Specialist - Center for Victims of Torture - Lebanon
Type: Refugee Resettlement, torture-treatment center, capacity building, DV, consultancy
Apply Here
Deputy Chief of Party/USAID/Nepal Better Health Activity - Save the Children - Nepal
Type: Healthcare administration, Monitoring and Evaluation, program development.
Apply Here
I hope these jobs can be helpful as you continue to explore your careers in the mental health field in California, Colorado, and internationally.
Stay tuned for more next week.
-Zack
P.S. - Looking for career coaching book at session today!
Mindful Monday: Find your focus.
Finding Your Focus: A Quick Mindfulness Practice
Happy Tax Day Everyone! Don’t forget to file your taxes for 2023, ask for that extension, and even add paying your 2024 quarterly taxes. Here is a dash of mindfulness to help us get through the Monday Blues on this Tax Day. Let's create some space for clarity and intention setting. Use this simple mindfulness practice, inspired by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help you reconnect with your present moment and what matters most.
Mindfulness Practice (30-60 seconds):
Find a comfortable position, sitting or standing. Close your eyes or soften your gaze. Take a few slow, deep breaths, feeling your belly rise and fall with each inhale and exhale. Now, gently bring your attention to your bodily sensations. Notice any tension, aches, or simply the feeling of your body against the chair or floor. Observe any sounds you hear, whether it's traffic outside or the gentle hum of a refrigerator. Don't judge these experiences, simply acknowledge them. Finally, bring your awareness to your thoughts. Are they swirling or calm? Let them float by like clouds without getting caught up in them.
Reflective Question:
As you come back to the present moment, take a moment to consider: What do I want to truly focus on and cultivate this week?
Closing Thoughts:
By taking a mindful pause and setting intentions, you empower yourself to navigate the week with a clear head and heart. Remember, even small moments of mindfulness can make a big difference.
So, breathe, reflect, and let's make this week a mindful one!
Mindful Monday: 5 Minutes to Embrace your week.
5-MiN Mindful Meditation: Embracing the New Week
Find a comfortable position: Sit upright in a chair or on the floor. Close your eyes gently, or soften your gaze if you prefer to keep them open. Take a few deep breaths, inhaling slowly through your nose and exhaling completely through your mouth.
Notice your body: Spend a moment feeling the ground beneath you, the way your clothes rest on your skin. Wiggle your toes and fingers, then let them relax. Acknowledge any tension you might hold in your shoulders, jaw, or brow. Let it go with each exhale.
Setting the tone for the week: Bring your awareness to the start of this new week. Imagine a fresh page in a notebook, crisp and clean. What kind of week do you want to write? Perhaps it's filled with productivity and focus, or maybe it's a week for creativity and joy. Breathe in this intention, letting it fill your lungs and settle in your heart.
The power of now: Now, bring your attention to the present moment. This is the only moment we truly have control over. Release any thoughts about the weekend that has passed, or worries about the days ahead. Feel the steadiness of your breath, the rhythm of your heartbeat.
Gratitude for a new beginning: Take a moment to appreciate the opportunity this new week presents. It's a chance to start fresh, to make new choices, and to connect with the things that matter most to you. Feel a sense of gratitude for this chance to begin again.
Mindful movement (optional): If you'd like to incorporate some movement, slowly roll your head in circles, feeling the stretch in your neck. Stretch your arms overhead, reaching for the sky, then gently fold forward with a rounded spine. Take a few mindful steps, feeling the ground connect with each footfall.
Bringing it back: Gently return your focus to your breath. Notice how it has calmed and steadied throughout this meditation. Take a final deep breath in, filling your body with renewed energy and purpose. When you're ready, open your eyes and step back into your day, carrying the intention you set for the week ahead.
Remember, even five minutes of mindful meditation can make a big difference. As you go about your week, take moments to check in with yourself, to breathe deeply, and to refocus on your intentions.
Working Wednesday - Weekly Job Postings in Mental Health
Hello,
Here is your weekly job postings in mental health. This week I am focusing on international jobs related to clinical, program management, and emergency mental health response. Hope this is helpful.
MedAIR
Mental Health and Psychosocial Supports (MHPSS) - Manager, Advisor, Project Manager - https://www.medair.org/position_sector/health-and-nutrition/
Swiss Red Cross (SRC) - Country Coordinator - Ukraine.
UNFPA - Programme Specialist and Team Leader - Youth and Adolescents
https://vietnam.unfpa.org/en/vacancies/re-advertisement-national-post-programme-specialist-and-team-leader-adolescents-and-youth
Emergency Response Specialist, Team Leader - Care CANADA
https://can232.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/carecanada/Posting/View/1122
Mental Health & Pscyhosocial Services Specialist - Center for Victims of Torture - Lebanon
Climbing & Mental Health Panel Discussion with She Sends & The Climbing Grief Fund
Greetings,
Please join us for a free interactive panel discussion with therapy professionals on mental health and climbing. We'll cover topics such as wellness, emotions, injuries, and more.
When: December 7, 2023 at 7PM Mountain Time
Where: Zoom ID 5162516738 Password 0000
More info about our panel is below. Please submit questions or topics you would like to address to counselingwithzack@gmail.com or jess@alturacc.com.
We are excited to share this panel with you!
- Zack, Jess, Madeline, Aleya, and Laurel.
RFTS is here while we witness and grieve.
As a therapy service, I condemn the violent attacks carried out by the Hamas over last weekend/this week and the war/violence that has ensued. I stand in support with the families, children and communities who are grieving and whose lives are endangered by the latest outbreak of violence in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. The impacts of the events last weekend and throughout this week have far-reaching consequences to the stability of the region as well as globally.
Witnessing the impacts of violence, terror, and loss can lead to feeling grief, angry, sad, scared, numb, and other distress. As a therapist, my doors are open to process the recent events. I also acknowledge the devasting collective impacts of violence, war, and terror. I have begun receiving local and global requests for MHPSS resources, and direct clinical counseling/assistance in response to what is unfolding in Israel and Palestine. Please reach out if any needs/requests are placed on your respective radars or by you individually.
I will share updates as they become available, along with California based events that are held in solidarity for peace.
In peace and love,
Zack Reed-Fier, LPCC
Therapist & Owner, Reed-Fier Therapy Services
Breathing Mindfully as We Transition to Fall
As the vibrant colors of summer slowly give way to the warm hues of autumn, the change of seasons brings not only a shift in nature but also a transformation within ourselves. Fall is a season of transition, a time when the world around us undergoes a beautiful metamorphosis, mirroring the changes we often experience in our lives. It's during this time that we can turn to mindfulness as a valuable tool to navigate the shifting landscape both externally and internally.
The Essence of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, observing your thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment. It invites you to engage with life as it unfolds, free from the burdens of the past and the anxieties of the future. In the context of fall's transition, mindfulness offers a unique opportunity to connect with the season's beauty and embrace the changes in our lives.
1. Embrace the Senses:
Fall engages our senses in a profound way. The crisp air, the earthy scent of fallen leaves, the crunch of leaves underfoot – these sensory experiences are gifts of the season. As you go about your day, take moments to fully immerse yourself in these sensations. Breathe in deeply, savoring the autumnal scents, and relish the feeling of the cool breeze on your skin. By engaging your senses intentionally, you can ground yourself in the present moment and cultivate gratitude for the simple joys of fall.
2. Witness Nature's Transition:
The changing colors of leaves and the gradual shedding of trees remind us of the impermanence of all things. As you observe nature's transition, reflect on the changes in your own life. What aspects of your life are evolving, and what are you ready to release? The act of witnessing nature's cycles can offer valuable insights into your own journey of growth and transformation.
3. Mindful Walks:
Autumn offers the perfect backdrop for mindful walks. Take leisurely strolls through parks, forests, or even your neighborhood. Pay attention to each step, the rhythm of your breathing, and the sights and sounds around you. Let go of distractions and immerse yourself in the beauty of the season. Walking mindfully not only reduces stress but also deepens your connection with the world.
4. Seasonal Self-Reflection:
Fall provides a natural opportunity for self-reflection. Set aside time to journal or meditate on the changes you're experiencing in your life. What goals do you want to achieve as the year draws to a close? What are you ready to release? Use this introspective practice to align your actions with your intentions and aspirations.
5. Gratitude Rituals:
Create gratitude rituals that celebrate the blessings of the season. Whether it's a daily gratitude journal or a weekly ritual of expressing thanks, acknowledging the beauty and abundance of fall can foster a positive mindset. Cultivating gratitude helps you stay centered in the present and appreciative of life's gifts.
6. Mindful Eating:
As fall brings an abundance of seasonal produce, practice mindful eating. Savor the flavors and textures of autumnal foods. Eat slowly, paying attention to each bite. By being present during meals, you can nourish both your body and your spirit.
Closing Thoughts
Mindfulness is a powerful practice that can enhance our connection with the changing seasons and the transitions in our lives. As fall embraces us with its beauty, may we also embrace the opportunity to be fully present, appreciating the richness of the season and the transformative potential it offers. Mindfulness during this time can guide us toward greater self-awareness, balance, and a deeper sense of gratitude for the ever-evolving tapestry of our lives.
Mindfulness, Empathy, and Compassion: Honoring September 11th.
Mindfulness, Empathy, and Compassion: Honoring September 11th
As we approach mid-day today, September 11th, a day etched in the collective memory of people in the United States and the world, it's an opportunity to not only remember the past but also to cultivate mindfulness, empathy, and compassion in our hearts. This date marks a moment when the world changed forever, as acts of violence and hatred shook the foundations of Western society.
The Power of Mindfulness:
Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in the moment without judgment, offers a profound tool to navigate the emotions and memories that September 11th evokes. Through mindfulness, we can observe our feelings without getting lost in them, fostering resilience and inner peace. This practice reminds us that, despite the darkness of that day, we can choose to respond with love, understanding, and compassion 22 years later..
Cultivating Empathy:
Empathy is the bridge that connects our hearts to the experiences of others. As we remember the countless lives lost on September 11th and its aftermath, let us strive to understand the pain, grief, and trauma that many continue to endure. Through empathy, we stand together, acknowledging that the world is interconnected, and our shared humanity binds us inextricably.
The Role of Compassion:
Compassion is the guiding light that drives us to take action. It urges us to extend kindness and support to those who carry the scars of that fateful day. Whether it's offering a listening ear, volunteering, or engaging in acts of kindness, compassion empowers us to heal and rebuild, both individually and as a community.
Practicing Mindfulness, Empathy, and Compassion:
1. Mindful Reflection: Take a moment to sit in quiet contemplation. Breathe deeply, allowing your thoughts and feelings to surface. Practice non-judgmental awareness, embracing whatever arises with compassion.
2. Empathetic Listening: Reach out to someone who may have been personally affected by September 11th. Listen with an open heart, offering your presence and empathy without judgment or advice.
3. Acts of Compassion: Engage in acts of kindness, whether it's volunteering, supporting a charitable cause, or simply helping a neighbor. Your actions can ripple outward, fostering healing and unity.
4. Community Connection: Attend local events or memorial services to connect with others who share your desire for remembrance, empathy, and compassion.
This September 11th, let us remember not only the tragedy and also the resilience, unity, and love that emerged from it. Through mindfulness, empathy, and compassion, we can honor the past, support those who still carry the burden, and create a world where love triumphs over hatred. In these acts, we find hope, healing, and the strength to move forward together.
Be kind to yourselves as you move throughout the day.
Stay mindful this Monday.