With September quickly approaching, students, parents and educators are busy preparing for another school year. After months of virtual learning, it’s very common for children and teens to feel nervous or apprehensive about making the return to in-person learning. Parents and guardians may feel uncertain about how to successfully make this transition with their student. Check out these five tips for parents and guardians to keep mental health a priority this school year. 1. Provide reassurance and encouragement. Make sure your student knows that it’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s from you, teachers, counselors or other school staff. Returning to school can feel difficult, so encouraging children to speak up if they are feeling anxious can make [...]

Every child deserves a great first day of school! With back-to-school time quickly approaching this September, children and teens are preparing to return to in-person learning. For 13-year-old student, Leah, this school year brings a fresh start. After several weeks in the hospital undergoing treatment for severe and persistent mental illness, Leah has overcome the trauma of abuse and neglect and continues to welcome help with her coping skills. She is now feeling healthy and ready to tackle her last year of middle school. As a part of the Oaks Foster FLEX program, Leah shared her nerves for the upcoming school year along with her optimism that she can succeed. She would love a new backpack and supplies to [...]

As we navigate the transition out of the virtual world, the return of face-to-face interaction can influence mental health. Social isolation is a serious health challenge that can be damaging to mental health. Therefore, the quality of our connections with one another can boost general happiness and decrease loneliness levels. For Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we believe in ensuring every person has access to resources and support for leading a healthy life. Here are 6 ways you can create more meaningful connections to feel motivated and driven to achieve a more fulfilling lifestyle: 1) Start with honesty. Some of the best conversations begin with honesty to break down barriers. Sharing authentic experiences can increase empathy levels between [...]

May is Mental Health Awareness Month – a time to raise awareness and share resources so anyone affected by mental illness can find the support needed to live a healthy, fulfilling life. Now more than ever, it’s important to support one another through all of life’s challenges. Yet, finding the words to begin the conversation with a loved one about mental health can be daunting. Not knowing how to discuss it is normal! Check out these 7 ways to prepare for the conversation and show your support to others who are struggling: 1. Give them time to share with you. Offer your loved one space and time to open up about mental health. They might not be ready to [...]

Helping one another through difficult situations can often provide the most impactful and rewarding results. Sometimes, all it takes is showing someone how much they matter. Oaks brings together support like this to its 230 programs through community services and compassion. Our Jail Diversion and Correctional Case Management program (JIS) specializes in diverting nonviolent mental health consumers from the criminal justice system to appropriate mental health services in the community. The program increases resource coordination between mental health, criminal justice, and social services systems. This March, Supervisor Jade Kimbrough and Case Manager Supervisor Edgar Shaffer conducted a virtual consumer focus group to understand the results of the JIS program. The focus group was intended to gather information, feedback, and [...]

When stress becomes overwhelming, it can take a toll on your well-being both physically and mentally. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 78% of adults say the coronavirus pandemic is a significant source of stress in their life. Every April, we recognize National Stress Awareness Month and provide resources for stress prevention and mental health services. If you are looking for tips to relax or reduce stress, try one of these strategies to handle stress in a healthy way. 1. Practice breathing exercises. Changing the way you breathe or focusing on your breathing pattern can provide relaxation to your mind and body, decreasing your overall stress level. Experiment with daily tools such as developing a mantra to repeat [...]

5 Ways to Prioritize Your Mental and Physical Health this Spring It’s a new season! As we spring into warm weather and sunny days, Oaks promotes this season of wellness with new ways to implement integrated care into your everyday life. Get 5-10 minutes of fresh air every day. After months of colder temperatures, taking some time outside can make a world of difference for your mental health. Warm weather is proven to boost your mood and reduce stress. Sun exposure also raises your Vitamin D levels which increases your energy levels. Try taking a walk, going for a bike ride, or just breathing in the fresh air! Organize and declutter your space. Wellness can be found in the [...]

For over a century, social workers have continuously impacted those in-need, making our nation a more equitable and inclusive place. March is National Social Work Month, a time to recognize the dedication of social workers and the positive changes they implement with individuals, families, groups, and communities. As an organization founded in social work and rooted in supportive initiatives, Oaks Integrated Care believes social work is essential to community well-being. Introduced in 1898 at Columbia University, social work brings social problems to the forefront of the public agenda and addresses the overall needs of the people. Throughout history, social workers have fought for the rights of people of color, advocated for safer workplaces, raised awareness for mental health services, [...]

Volunteering time and effort to an organization for over 20 years is no easy task. It requires passion, drive and dedication to making an impact in the lives of others. Oaks considers itself very fortunate to have generous volunteers committed to our mission. Charles Robinson, a longtime volunteer and supporter of Oaks, serves on the Ethics and Human Rights Committee and shares his story of building healthy, strong communities. The Journey Begins Mr. Robinson started his journey with Oaks Integrated Care (then Family Service) in 1998 as a part-time Outreach Coordinator. As a retired Philadelphia educator with over 30 years of experience, he knew he wanted to continue making a difference in the community after retirement. Within just a [...]