Understanding the Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development

Another tool for understanding the emotional, mental, and behavioral impact of early abuse and neglect in children who come to the attention of the child welfare system:

This Child Welfare Information Gateway brief provides basic information for professionals on brain development and the effects of abuse and neglect on that development.

SAMHSA Evidence-Based Practice Kits

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is offering a new series of Evidence-Based Practice KITs. The KITs were developed to help move the latest information available on effective behavioral health practices into community-based service delivery.

The KITs contain information sheets, introductory videos, practice demonstration videos, and training manuals.

Currently, five KITs are available:

• Assertive Community Treatment
• Integrated Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders
• Supported Employment
• Family Psychoeducation
• Illness Management and Recovery

These new KITs are available online and in CD-ROM/DVD format.

Reaching Out to Connect Teens and Young Adults With Resources

REACHOUT.com is an information and support service using evidence based principles and technology to help teens and young adults facing tough times and struggling with mental health, substance abuse and other issues.

All content is written by teens and young adults, for teens and young adults, to meet them where they are, and help them recognize their own strengths and use those strengths to overcome their difficulties and/or seek help if necessary.

NAMI Launches Social Networking Site for Young Adults

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has launched StrengthofUs.org, a new online community where young adults living with mental health concerns can provide mutual support in navigating unique challenges and opportunities during the critical transition years from ages 18 to 25.

Developed by young adults, StrengthofUs.org is a user-driven social networking community where members can connect with peers, share personal stories, creativity and helpful resources by writing and responding to blog entries, engaging in discussion groups and sharing videos, photos and other news.

The site offers resources on issues important to young adults, including:

• Healthy relationships
• Family and friends
• Campus life
• Independent living
• Finances
• Employment
• Housing
• Mental health issues

"Young adulthood is an exciting challenge, but also a confusing and stressful time for anyone," said Michael Fitzpatrick, NAMI executive director. "Life can throw things at you fast."

"Mental illness affects everyone. StrengthofUs.org is intended not just for young adults who have a mental illness, but for anyone entering adulthood that has a friend, parent or other family member facing a mental health problem."

"Most of all, StrengthofUs.org is an interactive, fun space where young adults can share experiences and other information to empower each other, build relationships and offer peer support."

Resiliency Ohio Recently Launched

The website http://www.resiliencyohio.org/ is designed to help children and youth with mental and emotional health challenges and their families learn about and embrace resiliency.

The concepts, and website materials were developed by Resiliency Leadership Ohio, which is comprised of youth experiencing mental health issues and their family members.

Resiliency is defined as an inner capacity that when nurtured, facilitated, and supported by others empowers children, youth, and families to successfully meet life's challenges with a sense of self-determination, mastery, hope, and well-being.

The website includes a video of Ohio youth and families speaking about the role of resiliency in their lives and the importance of having a resiliency perspective for mental wellness.