December 2024 Newsletter
Harlena Reed, JD, LCSW, LMSW
Meet the team!
We're thrilled to welcome Harlena Reed, JD, LCSW, LMSW, Krossroads Integrative Health and Recovery Solutions legal programs and clinical director, as our newest Garrett’s Space board member! Harlena brings a unique blend of expertise as a social worker and attorney and her work in the mental health and legal fields has focused on supporting and advocating for the rights of those experiencing mental health crises.
What made you want to become involved as a board member in Garrett’s Space?
My mom was involved first, [a Superior Township resident, she advocated] for Garrett's Space at the Township Board’s rezoning hearings. She introduced me to the Halperts and my immediate reaction was, “This is just such a great endeavor.”
On a personal level, I lost two of my law school classmates to suicide within a month of each other. It really hit home. Law school was a competitive, intense environment, definitely not a space where a student felt they could reach out for help. I thought about the pressure and wondered if there had been a safe space or non-pressured space available, could that have made a difference for either of them?
What excites you about the Garrett's Space approach to supporting young adults?
The mindset of Garrett’s Space, which focuses on listening to participants describe what they need and their feedback about the programming, is the better approach to care and services. It is the approach that makes the biggest difference in a person's life. Providers have professional training, tools and techniques, but these are only useful when used correctly, and the expert is always the participant. This is the approach I believe works, and that the data supports this.
DID YOU KNOW?
This time of year, when the days grow shorter and darker, the weight of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can feel heavier. Learn the signs and symptoms of SAD and how to get help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms: Visit SAMHSA’s website to learn more.
WELLNESS PROGRAM CORNER
At Garrett's Space, we understand that young adults experience many different stressors, and the holidays can be a particularly challenging time.
In addition to our personal challenges and stressors, collective stress also impacts how we navigate the world, interact with each other and our physical, mental and emotional states.
Stress is normal and automatic, but long-term stress makes it challenging to engage with daily tasks. Interactions can lead to health problems, including depression and anxiety.
Garrett’s Space’s holistic programming creates opportunities for participants to learn and practice healthy ways to manage stress. This might include movement, peer connection or time in nature.
While stress can feel isolating, you're not alone. Here are some practical strategies we invite you consider from our program development specialist and wellness group facilitator Marly that align with our approach to wellbeing:
Remember, taking care of yourself isn't selfish. It's essential. If you or someone you know between the ages of 18-28 could benefit from additional support, learn more about our wellness groups at our website. You don't have to navigate this journey alone.
How You Can Help
Thank you for your generous contributions to our efforts! Your support helps us offer free wellness groups and monthly in-person gatherings while we work towards realizing our vision of creating a residential space for young adults in need. We are excited to continue this journey together and are grateful for your ongoing commitment! Here’s how you can stay involved:
Volunteer: Join our dedicated team of volunteers to support events or help with tasks that keep our mission moving forward. To learn more contact info@garrettsspace.org.
Donate: Your generous contribution directly supports our programs, offering hope and healing to young adults facing mental health challenges. Every donation, no matter the size, makes an impact. Donate here.
Spread the Word: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook. And share our mission with your network to help raise awareness and grow our community of support.