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Your Mental Health Matters

Mental Health Awareness Month is a vital reminder of the importance of mental well-being, and offers us an opportunity to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding behavioral health struggles. We recognize that mental health is a journey, and our doors are always open to those seeking guidance and support. Whether you are navigating personal struggles or supporting a loved one, know that you are not alone. Together, we can work towards building a healthier, more empathetic world.

It is our mission to provide support and resources to individuals, couples and families who are struggling with mental health issues, and we will continue to do so throughout this month and beyond.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your mental health goals.

Mental Health Tips from The Family Institute At Northwestern University Experts

Practice journaling. Ask yourself difficult questions and use the space to clarify your feelings, your path, your purpose.

Mudita Rastogi, Ph.D., LMFT
Department Chair, Marriage & Family Therapy Program

Having a positive and loving relationship with yourself is so important. It's the foundation upon which all other relationships are built. If loving relationships were not modeled by your parents in childhood, you must learn how to be a caring parent to yourself. It's not an easy task, but it can be done!

Stephanie Bowman, J.D., M.A.
Staff Therapist

If you're experiencing a difficult emotion or a particularly stressful situation, a dose of self-compassion may help. Think about what you might say to a friend or loved one (or even your beloved pet) if they were in a similar situation and then offer the same words to yourself.

Melissa Hill, M.S.W., LCSW
Therapist

An hour of self-care a week can greatly increase our capacity to connect with those we care about, and enable ourselves to carryout our daily activities without burning out. Take the time to prioritize your own well-being so that you can be together with the people who matter to you without stress looming.

Mairin Wilkie, LCSW
Therapist

Think small! Small changes that are maintained over time are impactful and more likely to stick.  Identify a very small behavior you want to change. For example, saying a pre-determined phrase, like "whoops, I will try again" to yourself when you make a mistake, or giving yourself 2 minutes to stretch before you start your work day. Don't go for too much, make sure the behavior is offered as a gift and not a punishment, and allow room for forgetting, change is bumpy. Offering yourself the gift of a small change builds confidence and self respect. 

Nancy Burgoyne, Ph.D.
Chief Clinical Officer

Take advantage of the nicer weather to get up and move. A little physical activity is better than no activity.

Daniel Wilsea, M.A., LCPC, NCC, CCMHC, CMPC
Therapist & Mental Performance Consultant

To decrease racing thoughts at bedtime, try to stay away from devices at least 30 minutes before bed. It's also important to give your thoughts time to "breathe" throughout the day, so they don't come popping in for the first time when you're trying to go to sleep.

Jocelyn McDonnell, M.A., LCPC, NCC
Therapist

A great hack to combat anxiety is to evaluate if your sense of responsibility matches your locus of control.

Jennifer Vanboxel, LMFT
https://www.family-institute.org/therapists-locations/therapist/jennifer-vanboxel
May Mental Health Events

May 2, 2024 12:00 PM CT

Giving an Effective Apology Webinar

Giving an Effective Apology Webinar

Apologies are a part of everyday life. But what transforms an apology from mere words into a truly meaningful gesture? Join Jayne Kinsman, LMFT, alongside moderator Nancy Burgoyne, Ph.D., as they delve into the nuances and research insights surrounding apologies. During the webinar, you will learn the common missteps often made in offering apologies and uncover strategies for crafting sincere and impactful expressions of remorse. Whether you're seeking to mend relationships or cultivate deeper connections, this discussion will equip you with practical tools to effectively navigate the art of an apology.

Learn more & register

May 8, 2024 5:30 PM CT

Gratitude Gala

Gratitude Gala

Save the date for The Family Institute at Northwestern University's second annual Gratitude Gala on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. This fundraising event will feature remarks from honoree Ben Zobrist, a silent auction, cocktails, food stations and passed hors d'oeuvres, entertainment and more. All proceeds will benefit The Bette D. Harris Family & Child Clinic, which provides free mental and behavioral therapy services for individuals, couples and families that could not otherwise afford it.

Learn more & register

Family Dynamics: Mental Wellness Across Generations Event

June 5, 2024 7:00 PM CT

Family Dynamics: Mental Wellness Across Generations Event

Join The Family Institute at Northwestern University and Apostolic Faith Church for an enriching and enlightening experience that aims to foster stronger family dynamics and promote mental wellness across generations. Our panel of experts will delve into a wide range of topics, including:

  • Tips for blended families and second marriages
  • Caring for aging family members while caring for ourselves
  • Working through family trauma, with or without support from members of the family
  • Biblical perspectives of using medication and therapy for mental wellness
  • Marriage & Parenting Tips

Registration is not required. Participants can attend in-person at the Apostolic Faith Church, or view the livestream on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:00 p.m. CT

Apostolic Faith Church
3823 S. Indiana Ave
Chicago, IL 60653