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CMHA-CEI Crisis Care Center Recap Wallbreaking Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:Kayla Collins
Piper and Gold PR
Phone: 313.505.5095
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Wall-Breaking Ceremony Marks a New Era of Behavioral Health Support in Greater Lansing

Crisis Care Center to serve as a critical resource, providing immediate and expert care 24/7 to people in crisis.

Lansing, MI — November 26, 2024 — Community leaders, healthcare professionals, and advocates joined together on Monday, November 25, 2024 for a moving wall-breaking ceremony to mark the transformation of the former McLaren Health Care hospital into the Crisis Care Center. Developed by the Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI), this new facility will serve as a beacon of hope for adults, youth, and families facing behavioral health emergencies.

Created in response to the growing need for accessible behavioral health crisis support services, the Crisis Care Center will provide immediate intervention to stabilize individuals in distress, reduce hospitalizations, and provide an alternative to emergency rooms for families seeking urgent care.

“Our community deserves more behavioral health support, and the Crisis Care Center is a critical resource that reflects our collective vision for a healthier, more compassionate future,” said Sara Lurie, CEO of CMHA-CEI. “This center is designed to serve people in their moments of greatest need, offering expert care and support around the clock.”

The ceremony was attended by many dignitaries who voiced their strong support for the initiative, including Mayor Andy Schor, Senators Debbie Stabenow and Sarah Anthony, MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel, COO of McLaren Health Care, Jay de los Reyes, NAMI Lansing President Katreva Bisbee, Ingham County Sheriff, Scott Wrigglesworth, CMHA-CEI Board member and Ingham County Board of Commissioners, Ryan Sebolt and Rep. Angela Witwer. Their messages underscored the urgent need for resources like the Crisis Care Center to address behavioral health challenges in the community.

A highlight of the event was a heartfelt message shared by Noelle Melton, offering a powerful reminder of the profound impact behavioral health crises have on individuals and loved ones. The story emphasized the importance of accessible, compassionate care and the difference the center will make in the lives of those it serves.

The ceremonial wall-breaking was both a symbolic and tangible moment of progress, signifying the beginning of a new chapter for the building and for the community. Attendees also participated in a community engagement activity, sharing insights and ideas to help shape the branding and vision for the Crisis Care Center, reinforcing the inclusive and collaborative spirit behind this initiative.

The Crisis Care Center will provide immediate, expert care 24/7 in a safe and supportive environment, offering prevention, intervention, and continued care to individuals without bias. The center is set to open Spring 2026.

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):

The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides a comprehensive range of person-centered, high-quality behavioral health, substance use, and developmental disability services to residents in the region. Through direct care and partnerships, CMHA-CEI is dedicated to meeting community needs with innovative and effective support systems that empower individuals, foster recovery, and enhance quality of life.

CMHA-CEI Crisis Care Center Wallbreaking Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:Kayla Collins
Piper and Gold PR
Phone: 313.505.5095
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Community Partners Celebrate The Crisis Care Center, a New Crisis Stabilization Center for Behavioral Health Services

Transforming the Former McLaren Hospital Space into a Vital Resource for Behavioral Health Crisis Support in Greater Lansing

Lansing, MI — November 20, 2024 — Community leaders and healthcare professionals will gather on Monday, November 25 at 1 p.m. to unveil the grounds of the Crisis Care Center, the new Crisis Stabilization Center developed by Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI). Created in response to the growing need for additional crisis support services within the greater Lansing area, the Crisis Care Center will provide urgent, accessible mental health care to youth and adults in crisis, offering immediate intervention to stabilize individuals in distress, reduce hospitalizations, and ease the burden on emergency rooms.

Event Details:

Date: Monday, November 25, 2024

Time: 1 p.m

Location: 2900 Stabler Street, Lansing, MI

“This center is a significant step forward for our community, enhancing immediate access to mental health care,” said Sara Lurie, CEO of CMHA-CEI. “The Crisis Care Center will serve as a beacon of hope and stability, offering critical services that can make a life-changing difference for individuals and families.”

The event will mark the launch of this transformative project, symbolizing a fresh start for the facility as it becomes a beacon of hope and stabilization for the community. The wall-breaking ceremony will highlight the commitment to addressing urgent mental health needs in the community, providing a welcoming space where individuals can receive compassionate care, stabilization, and guidance toward recovery. Attendees will hear from community leaders, healthcare partners, and local officials, including a special address by Senator Stabenow and remarks from CMHA-CEI leadership, underlining the importance of this new resource.

“CMHA-CEI has been a wonderful partner in making my national community-based mental health and substance use disorder initiative a success,” said Senator Debbie Stabenow “A critical component of these community behavioral health clinics is crisis services. In securing the federal funding for this crisis center, we are ensuring that more people can get quality mental health and addiction services close to home, not in our emergency rooms and jails.”

In partnership with McLaren Health, law enforcement, and community organizations, The Crisis Care Center will foster a collaborative approach to mental health support, strengthening the region's capacity to address mental health crises with compassion and efficiency. Through this partnership, CMHA-CEI aims to improve mental health outcomes and foster long-term resilience within the community.

“We are very pleased and remain grateful that the Greenlawn campus continues to serve the immediate needs of greater Lansing by housing community-based services,” said Kirk Ray, McLaren Greater Lansing President and CEO. “The clinical behavioral health needs of the state and country at large have been well-documented, and it is very encouraging to see this space we once occupied maintain its positive and direct impact on the people of our region. We commend the efforts of the CMHA-CEI and wish them the best in their service and care.”

“The opening of the Crisis Care Center is a game-changer for our community,” said Katreva Bisbee, President of NAMI Lansing. “For too long, individuals facing mental health crises have had limited options, often ending up in emergency rooms that may not be equipped for the specific support they need. This center provides a dedicated, compassionate space for immediate help, which is essential for recovery and peace of mind for individuals and families alike. NAMI Lansing is honored to see our community taking this bold step in prioritizing mental health.”

The event will include a ceremonial wall-breaking with local stakeholders, community members, and media representatives invited to participate. Guests will also have the opportunity to engage with project leaders to discuss the vision and goals of The Crisis Care Center, which is set to open late next year.

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):

The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides a comprehensive range of person-centered, high-quality behavioral health, substance use, and developmental disability services to residents in the region. Through direct care and partnerships, CMHA-CEI is dedicated to meeting community needs with innovative and effective support systems that empower individuals, foster recovery, and enhance quality of life.

CMHA-CEI Invites the Community to the 2024 CMHA-CEI In-Person Community Annual Event

For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist

Cell Phone: 231-903-2952

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CMHA-CEI Invites the Community to the 2024 CMHA-CEI In-Person Community Annual Event

Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) invites the community to the 2024 CMHA-CEI Annual Community Event, which takes place on Tuesday, April 2nd from 9am to 12pm at the Lansing Center, located at 333 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48933. The theme for this year’s event is Belonging Matters.

The event will include the presentation of the CMHA-CEI 2023 Annual Report to the Community. “The 2023 CMHA-CEI Annual Report to the Community underscores our commitment to fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). We are dedicated to strengthening existing partnerships and creating new pathways into behavioral health careers. Our report features stories on Veterans Navigation, Diversity Advisory Council, and Health Equity Training, showcasing our commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels acknowledged and valued. Our guiding theme is Belonging Matters! and Together We Can...build resilient communities that champion empathy, understanding, and a sense of belonging,” explained Sara Lurie, Chief Executive Officer at CMHA-CEI.

Following the presentation of the 2023 Annual Report to the Community, Dr. Tonya Bailey will provide an engaging presentation on how as a community we can help everyone feel that they belong. Dr. Tonya Bailey (she/her/hers) has over 25 years of experience in leading transformative programming, and implementing award winning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. She is skilled in engaging diverse audiences by creating environments that accommodate the diverse needs of everyone.

Doors will open at 9:00 a.m., breakfast will be served, and the event will start at 9:30 a.m.

To register for the event, please visit https://bit.ly/2024CMHA-CEIAnnualEvent or by calling (517) 237-3155.

To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):

The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.

CMHA-CEI Invites the Community to the 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat Event

For Immediate Release

Media Contact: 

Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist

Cell Phone: 231-903-2952

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  

CMHA-CEI Invites the Community to the  3rd Annual Trunk or Treat Event 

Lansing, MI – Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is hosting their 3rd Annual CMHA-CEI Trunk or Treat Event on Friday, October 27th from 4pm to 7pm, located at 812 E. Jolly Rd., Lansing, MI in the East Employee Parking Lot. This event is free and open to the public. 

Trunk or Treat Event attendees will enjoy live entertainment, raffles, free candy and more. Attendees will have access to free cider and donuts, provided by Quality Dairy, and free hot dogs and chips provided by Mad Dogz Hot Dogs out of Grand Rapids, MI.  The Delta Township District Library Book Van will be on-site providing free books to the community and sharing resources and information about their services. Other community partners include the Michigan State Police, who we are thrilled to have on board this year. 

WHO: Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties  (CMHA-CEI) 

WHAT: CMHA-CEI 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat Event 

WHEN: Friday, October 27th from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM 

WHERE: 812 E. Jolly Rd. Lansing, MI 48910 – East Employee Parking Lot

• NOTE: For safety purposes, guests are being asked to enter using the Battenfield entrance for this special event. 

WHY: To provide CMHA-CEI staff, their families, CMHA-CEI consumers, their families and/or caregivers, and the public with a fun and festive event to educate the community on CMHA-CEI services and programs.  Please take this opportunity to learn about the wealth of CMHA-CEI resources, programs and services or by visiting www.ceicmh.org 

This event is hosted and sponsored by CMHA-CEI. 

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):

The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community. To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org.

CMHA-CEI Holding a Hiring Fair for Relief Positions

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CMHA-CEI Holding a Hiring Fair for Relief Positions

Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is holding a hiring fair on Thursday, October 19^th from 12:00PM to 5:00PM at 812 E. Jolly Rd, Lansing, MI 48910. CMHA-CEI is looking to hire for multiple Relief Mental Health Worker, Relief Family Support Worker, and Relief Residential Technician positions.

Janeil Pelton, a Human Resource Specialist at CMHA-CEI who oversees recruitment efforts, is excited that applicants who are passionate about working in the behavioral health field may join the CMHA-CEI team. “Getting to meet individuals who are interested in joining our CMHA-CEI team is an exciting moment as we get to discuss job opportunities and what CMHA-CEI has to offer to interested applicants. We are looking for passionate and team-oriented professionals to join CMHA-CEI and make a difference in our communities,” explains Janeil.

The relief positions have a flexible schedule of 0—19 hours per week. The current open positions are great for students or those looking for supplemental income. Positions have the ability to grow into part-time and full-time opportunities which include increased salary and benefits.

About the positions:

• Relief Family Support Worker: The ideal candidate will function as a member of a team-oriented, home-based intensive intervention unit working with children at risk of an out-of-home placement.
• Relief Residential Tech: The ideal candidate will have an interest in assisting individuals with personal care and treatment, and in providing support with self-identified goals developed to maximize an individual’s full potential in a residential setting.
• Relief Mental Health Worker: The ideal candidate will have an interest in providing a supportive atmosphere for adults and children experiencing acute mental health crisis.

To apply for any relief position, all candidates must have a valid driver’s license, a GED or high school diploma, and must be able to pass a background check. For more information about current job postings, please visit www.ceicmh.org/employment.

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):  The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community. To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI atwww.ceicmh.org.

CMHA-CEI Awarded Three-Year Accreditation for Advanced Quality of Services Provided

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CMHA-CEI Awarded Three-Year Accreditation for  Advanced Quality of Services Provided 

Lansing, MI – The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International has announced that Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) has been accredited through June 30, 2026. This is the seventh consecutive Three-Year Accreditation that the international accrediting body has given to CMHA-CEI. The agency retained accreditation for eighteen clinical programs, and all administrative units. Accreditation for two additional programs, Family Support Case Management (IDD-Children), and Adult Outpatient Case Management, were added. 

This accreditation decision signals a service provider’s commitment to continually improving services, encouraging feedback, and serving the community. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.   

An example of an excerpt from the official accreditation report examines CMHA-CEI and its strengths, such as,” CMHA-CEI offers a varied continuum of treatment programs and services to clients with mental health and substance use disorders. The organization also provides outpatient treatment and residential treatment to clients referred from within the criminal justice system. The programs and services are provided in multiple locations for clients in all stages of recovery in order to make the treatment process, from detox to outpatient, as simple and consistent as possible”. 

CARF is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process and continuous improvement services that center on enhancing the lives of the persons served. Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, and now known as CARF International, the accrediting body establishes consumerfocused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services.   

For more information about the accreditation process, please visit the CARF website at www.carf.org. 

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI): The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community. To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org.

Senator Stabenow, CMHA-CEI CEO, and HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use Highlight Success of Transformational Behavioral Health Initiative in Lansing

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Senator Stabenow, CMHA-CEI CEO, and HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use Highlight Success of Transformational Behavioral Health Initiative in Lansing

LANSING – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow joined Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties CEO Sara Lurie and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and the leader of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon to highlight the transformational behavioral health services provided by the clinic. Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties is one of 34 Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics in Michigan, a highly successful initiative created by Senator Stabenow.

“Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties is transforming the way that we deliver behavioral health services in our community,” said Senator Stabenow. “My mental health care and substance use disorder initiative is a proven success story and is transforming care in Michigan and across our country. Now, every state will be able to join and make sure health care above the neck is funded the same way as health care below the neck. Because of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, help through our highly successful clinics will begin to reach people in every corner of our country.”

“The CCBHC model championed by our own US Senator Debbie Stabenow is truly transformative and is helping us to improve quality of care and more fully serve our community. The need is for timely behavioral health services is great and it is vitally important and exciting that this model can now be further expanded here in Michigan and throughout the United States,” said Sara Lurie, CEO of Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, Ingham Counties.

“Today, I was pleased to visit two Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) in the state of Michigan with Senator Stabenow,” said Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D., HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and the leader of SAMHSA.“CCBHCs are transforming behavioral health systems in this country, and we know that the model of care works. They decrease homelessness, incarcerations, emergency room and hospital stays, and the use of illegal substances with 24/7 access to crisis stabilization.”

Last year, Senator Stabenow led the passage of the transformational initiative to fully fund high-quality mental health and substance use disorder services through Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, a program implemented and supported by SAMHSA. Due to the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, every state and the District of Columbia can expand transformational behavioral health support to their residents. Michigan began participating in Stabenow’s behavioral health initiative in 2021.

These Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics are transforming community care by setting high-quality standards of care and then funding mental health and addiction services as health care through Medicaid. This is the same successful structure used for federally qualified health centers.

In order to receive enhanced Medicaid funding, the clinics are required to provide crisis services that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and serve anyone who requests care for mental health or substance use disorder, regardless of their ability to pay. Other high-quality services are required as well, including outpatient mental health and substance use disorder treatment services; immediate screenings, risk assessments, and diagnoses; and care coordination including partnerships with emergency rooms, law enforcement, and veterans’ groups.

The Department of Health and Human Services found that people who receive care at these clinics had:

* 74% reduction in hospitalization
* 68% reduction in visits to the emergency room
* 33% decrease in homelessness

Also, 84% of these clinics either already provide direct services on site at elementary, middle, and high schools or plan to in the future.

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About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.

CMHA-CEI Invites the Community for a Morning of Hope and Healing: 2023 CMHA-CEI In-Person Community Event

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CMHA-CEI Invites the Community for a Morning of Hope and Healing: 2023 CMHA-CEI In-Person Community Event

Lansing, MI Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) invites the community to the 2023 CMHA-CEI Annual Community Event, which takes place on Monday, April 3rd from 9am to 12pm at the Lansing Center, located at 333 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48933. The theme for this year’s event is Hope and Healing.

Last year, the event was held virtually. This year, CMHA-CEI would like to celebrate hope and healing with our community post COVID pandemic. “In our reflection, 2022 was a year of Hope and Healing. Glimmers of hope shined brighter as we slowly emerged from the peak of the pandemic and re-engaged in activities and events that had paused. Healing began as we experienced the sweetness and joy of opportunities to be together with family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, community partners, and other community members. We also know that healing will be ongoing for those of us who lost loved one's as a result of the pandemic,” explained Sara Lurie, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at CMHA-CEI.

The event will consist of the sharing of the CMHA-CEI 2022 Annual Report to the Community. CEO, Lurie hopes that the viewing of the CMHA-CEI 2022 Report to the Community will show the power of relationships, innovation, and connections in healing, growth, and recovery. “I hope participants will recognize they are the heroes in their own lives and in the lives of others and leave with appreciation for the strength and resilience of our partnerships and our community.”

Doors will open at 9:00 a.m., a breakfast buffet will be provided, and the event will start at 9:30 a.m. Following the presentation of the 2022 Annual Report to the Community, Michael Hahn will provide a thrilling presentation on how we can embrace our inner hero! “During the session, I'll share the habits of everyday heroes like you… I’ll give you a chance to think about a hero from your past and appreciate them for their sacrifice, dedication and example. I hope you'll discover that you already possess many of the Hero Habits. Superhero Tip: Heroes are everyday people (like us), who have ingrained habits that enable them to be resilient,” explained Michael Hahn, Keynote Speaker and author of Hero Habits.

To register for the event, please visit https://bit.ly/2023AnnualCommunityEvent or by calling (517) 237-3155

To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.

CMHA-CEI Offers Mental Health Tips in Response to MSU Crisis

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:
Emily Wollner, Acting Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 517-346-9512
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CMHA-CEI Offers Mental Health Tips in Response to MSU Crisis

Lansing, MI (February 15, 2023) - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is releasing mental health tips for families and individuals to manage stress or trauma associated with the recent crisis at Michigan State University (MSU).

Mental Health Support:
Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis should call 988 (24 hours/7 days) or CMHA-CEI’s Crisis Services at 517-346-8460 (24 hours/7 days). Individuals can also take a free, anonymous, online screening for behavioral health issues (including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, alcohol use disorder, opioid misuse, suicide ideation, etc.) and general wellbeing available via direct link at https://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/cei or available on our website at www.ceicmh.org.

Tips for Parents:

• Acknowledge what happened. If your child is talking or asking about traumatic events, it is important for the caregivers / loved ones in their life to acknowledge what happened, provide age-appropriate information, and be supportive.
• Parents may want to approach older children who may have seen the news or videos on social media and find out what they know and what their thoughts / feelings are about what happened.
• Recognize the effect this has on your child. Talk to your child about their thoughts and emotions as it pertains to the event and validate their feelings and concerns. With mass shootings in public places and places of worship, this is a valid concern for them, and all adults need to take their viewpoint and concerns into consideration.
• Help your child to feel safe. A sense of normalcy and routine as soon as possible after an event helps to re-establish a child's sense of safety and structure. Discuss whatever positive aspects can be found in tragic events such as the quick police response and how community members and citizens across the country are coming together to support those affected.

Tips for Adults:

• Everyone experiences events and trauma in different ways and however they think or feel after an event like this is okay. Some people respond with fear, some anger, some shock, sadness, etc. Encourage people to talk about what they are thinking and feeling. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals if necessary.
• Try to get back to routines and schedules to promote feelings of consistency and balance to reduce fear and provide a feeling of returning control and predictability.
• Be mindful to consider the amount of exposure to the news / media. It is okay to keep updated, but continuing to view the images, etc. will worsen and prolong the issues the person is experiencing.

To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI): The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.