SKILLS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

More than a dozen individuals are participating this fall in groups aimed at strengthening mental, chemical and emotional health. Participants learn how to rebuild skills for dailing living and to move toward greater self reliance and participation in the community.
Women in Cabrini Partnership's transitional and supportive housing programs are "Discovering Your Hidden Potential." For three hours a day, three days a week over five weeks, they are identifying personal strengths and obstacles, learning healthy coping strategies for stress, improving communication skills, learning how to resolve conflicts, strengthening their support systems and setting personal goals. Sessions are being facilitated by professionals who have volunteered their time to guide the participants in reflecting on and discussing questions and challenges posed by each topic.
A men's support group at the transitional house is being led by Mark Meier, Executive Director of FaceIt Foundation, which educates men about depression. "Community - the essence of what the transitional house offers - is essential for coping with depression," according to Mark. The goal of the weekly group is to help the participants understand depression, realize the connection between their depression and negative behavior and build relationships that support their mental health.