This booklet from the NAMI Hearts & Minds program has information about the importance of staying healthy in both mind and body. You’ll find resources on quitting smoking, substance abuse and alcoholism, healthy eating and the importance of regular exercise.

http://www.nami.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Hearts_and_Minds/FINALfinalRoadmaptoWellness.pdf

Help your state make the best choices!

July 18, 2012 -- The Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law has released a new guide to help advocates, providers and state leaders improve health coverage and mental health services in the states. Now is the time to help state leaders understand the benefits of expanding Medicaid eligibility. States that do opt for the Medicaid expansion will also have to make other critical decisions to ensure people with mental illness have access to the services they need. The guide addresses these and related issues in depth.

The optional expansion presents states with an unparalleled opportunity to secure federal funding for health care for low-income Americans. Scores of these individuals endure serious mental illnesses, other health challenges and even homelessness. However, people with low incomes and mental illnesses deserve the opportunity to lead a full life in the community like everyone else.  

Expanding Medicaid eligibility and making other wise policy choices now available under the Affordable Care Act will go a long way toward this goal. Read the guide here. 

How will an aging population affect the mental health system of care? Read about a new report here:

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/news/articles/2012/07/10/aging-boomers-mental-health-woes-will-swamp-health-system-report

As a resource for both individuals and organizations, The CAFE TA Center has produced a new Focus newsletter that provides a simple tool to help track both resources and changes. It includes an easy-to-use form, that will allow consumer run organizations an opportunity to promote strategic approaches to researching and locating answers regarding mental health services.

Check it out here