Families are the building blocks of a community. Rooted in love and caring, they provide nurturing and a sense of belonging. Sometimes, when a family member has a severe mental health diagnosis, life at home can become challenging to manage. Families enrolled in IFSS have a friendly ear available if they need to talk. They also have a network of peers who have experienced similar situations and operate in a judgment-free zone to call upon.
The IFSS program provides various supports, including consultations, a support group that meets twice monthly, respite care opportunities, psycho-educational programming, advocacy and service referrals.
Program Coordinator Paisley Burgess and Family Support Counselor Bryana Martinez are dedicated to helping families navigate the challenges of having a member with a behavioral health diagnosis. They also stress the importance of self-care and offer coping strategies. If a family member in the program needs to talk, Paisley is available by phone or in-person to listen and provide guidance.
Literally and figuratively, she meets them where they are. I may go to their house, or we might connect to get a cup of coffee. When I meet with one woman in the program, I wear my sneakers around her neighborhood and talking. Many of the students she worked with had behavioral health issues, and she saw their parents struggling. I started researching the different kinds of resources that were available and would share that information.
When Paisley began her role with IFSS a little over a year ago, one of the first things she did was compile a huge resource binder. She collected all kinds of information to share. Families in the program get together, enjoy light refreshments and share their stories. Paisley said the holidays can be extra stressful for individuals with mental health issues. The five-part psycho-educational program features fun activities to help families understand how important it is for caregivers to care for themselves.
