starting small using the memorandum of understanding as a doorway connection with local recovery...
TRANSCRIPT
Starting SmallUsing the Memorandum of Understanding
as a doorway
Connection with Local Recovery Coordinator
NAMI Connection with VA and Vet CentersProviding NAMI literature to Behavioral Health
ClinicsTabling at Veterans’ fairsInvitations to speak with NAMI
MOU
Starting SmallInvolvement with local Veterans’ support
groups and Veterans’ Collaboratives
Adjusting informational materials to be more military/Veteran friendly
Persistence is Key This Summer’s Family-to-Family course took three
tries to get up and running due to issues with recruitment…
Despite presentations by F2F Coordinator, LRC, written materials provided to clinicians/other VA & Vet Center staff
NAMI Webinar fundamental to learning recruitment tools
Decision to conduct the course even with a small number of participants
Getting the Course StartedUse of Veteran-friendly materials and emphasis on
PTSD class. Flyer developed: “Are you a family member of a Veteran with PTSD or other mental health issues? If so, this class is for you!”
Instructor’s personal and professional interest in Veterans
Speaking with prospective family members
Working within VA guidelines for use of VA space
Our ClassCombination of Veteran and non-Veteran connected
families
Veterans who have relatives struggling with a mental illness and/or who have challenges of their own
Relatives who have a Veteran about whom they are concerned
VA employees/volunteers
Introductions included indications of military/Veteran connections
“Class 13”: PTSDPresented as Class 4 following other classes
focusing on specific disorders
Use of “A Supplemental Take-Home Module for the NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program: Understanding and Coping with PTSD” as guide for the class
Presents an abundance of information that, if included in its entirety, could not be covered in only one class
“Class 13”: PTSDChose specific parts to focus on, based on voiced
needs of the participants: symptoms, other related problems, effects on families, treatment and the family’s role in treatment
Added additional information that may be helpful:References to additional psychophysiology information
(e.g., Bessel van der Kolk’s and Babette Rothschild’s work)
Reference to a constructivist view of the difficulties associated with PTSD to increase empathy and understanding
How to communicate with VA/Vet Center providers
Finding the “Expert”Each VA Medical Center has clinicians who
specialize in the treatment of PTSD
In our case, LRC’s previous clinical focus was trauma and with some quick refreshing, was able to conduct the class (and wanted to)
After –hours class time may present an issue; try to recruit a presenter well before the class, work with the LRC to find the person willing to present the class. VA employees can work with supervisors to allow for comp time or flex hours
Good Stuff!High level of bonding around the issue of PTSD as
well as trauma in general
Degree of respect, gratefulness, and pride regarding Veterans evident
Several teenagers/young adults present who expressed relief in finding others struggling with similar issues
Family members remain in touch after the class ending; reunion at next year’s walk being planned
Course Feedback“This is a wonderful class. I have learned so much about
how to be more understanding, compassionate, and an advocate for all people with a mental illness, but especially for my son.”
“I have learned an incredible amount…how to speak with the affected person – I am changing my behavior and speech.”
“It was good to get to know other people with a family member who has a mental illness.”
“I felt close and trusting with our instructors and those members who attended regularly.”
“Hopefully, some long-lasting friendships have been established.”
Speaker Contact InformationDr. Laurie Sheerer
Kay DerricoNAMI Contra Costa
Susan Norwick HorrocksNAMI Contra Costa