Long-term Disability Support Group

BACKGROUND

About MentalHappy

MentalHappy is a secure digital health platform on the web, iOS, and Android. It enables providers and organizations to create and manage expert-led support groups for their clients, members, patients, or communities. MentalHappy is dedicated to promoting knowledge, ensuring fair access, and encouraging the significant impact of community-based care.

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ATN | A Disability Support Group

ATN, a private mental health practice based in Utah, has initiated a support group to meet the increasing demand for mental health support among adults grappling with long-term disability (LTD). A significant portion of the group's members are underinsured and navigate their daily lives with minimal to no assistance.

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ATN Goals

Short-term:

1. To provide immediate benefits to individuals participating in the support groups
2. To gain insights into the disability experience and generate more knowledge about caregiver gaps/needs.

Long-term:

1. To improve the emotional well-being of group participants.
2. To provide accessible resources for improving quality of life.  

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ATN OVERVIEW

ATN is a support group on the MentalHappy Platform for individuals living with disabilities and mobility limitations. 

MentalHappy is a HIPAA-compliant, secure platform where participants can normalize, discuss, and share practices to overcome life’s challenges. MentalHappy enables licensed practitioners and vetted unlicensed coaches to utilize the platform to cultivate topic-specific groups or communities. Individuals with disabilities aged 18 years and older, along with their caregivers, can participate. The group will remain all year long, during which members can engage with others through an asynchronous group feed and weekly videoconference support group sessions.

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ATN: Support Group Description

People with long-term disabilities often face significant mental health struggles alongside their chronic pain and physical or cognitive challenges. Some everyday mental health struggles experienced by individuals with long-term disabilities include social isolation, Low self-esteem and identity issues, grief, a sense of loss, financial strain, and more. 

LTD Support Group is an expert-led and peer support group for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, where participants are encouraged to connect and discuss the various aspects of navigating life with a disability. Topics of discussion include:

• Introduction and Sharing Experiences: Providing a safe space for members to introduce themselves, share their experiences living with a long-term disability, and express their feelings and concerns.

• Coping Strategies: Sharing and discussing effective coping strategies for managing the physical, emotional, and practical challenges associated with long-term disabilities, such as pain management techniques, relaxation exercises, and stress reduction methods.

• Self-Care and Wellness: Exploring strategies for self-care and promoting overall well-being, including tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing fatigue, prioritizing mental health, and fostering resilience.

• Navigating Healthcare and Disability Services: Discuss how to navigate the healthcare system, access disability-related services and resources, advocate for one's needs, and overcome barriers to care.

• Relationships and Social Support: Address issues related to maintaining relationships with family, friends, and partners, building social support networks within the disability community, and combating social isolation.

• Identity and Self-Image: Explore topics related to identity, self-esteem, and body image in living with a long-term disability, including strategies for cultivating a positive self-image and embracing one's unique identity.

• Accessibility and Advocacy: Discuss challenges related to accessibility in various settings (e.g., home, workplace, community) and strategies for advocating for greater accessibility, inclusivity, and disability rights.

• Employment and Financial Management: Address issues related to employment, career advancement, financial management, and navigating disability benefits and accommodations in the workplace.

• Emotional Well-being and Mental Health: Provide information and support related to managing mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, and stress, and encouraging members to seek professional help when needed.

• Goal Setting and Life Planning: Assist members in setting realistic goals, developing action plans, and pursuing meaningful activities and aspirations despite the challenges posed by their disabilities.

• Positive Affirmations and Celebrating Successes: Fostering a culture of positivity, resilience, and mutual support by sharing inspirational stories, celebrating achievements, and offering encouragement to fellow group members.

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Participation

The group leader facilitates discussions and offers guidance and support. Members are encouraged to actively participate by sharing experiences, offering support, initiating conversations, and asking questions. An option for anonymous questions is available for added privacy, ensuring a safe space for all participants.

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Group Meetings

Virtual group sessions held once a week, focusing on specific topics. 

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Who Qualifies?

You may qualify for our Disability Support Program if

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Disability Support Group Health Outcomes

The following metrics were used to evaluate the impact of the Long-term Disability Support Group:

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Self-Reported Results

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Platform & Partnership Opportunities

MentalHappy is recognized as a safe and effective platform where mental health professionals can host their patient and client support groups. Learn More 

***Partnership Invitation

If your practice is at capacity and you cannot accept new patients, we are pleased to serve as a trusted resource highly recommended by therapists in our network.

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***Confidentiality Assurance:

The information provided is inspired by the experiences shared within private support groups on the MentalHappy platform. Names and specific details have been altered to ensure data security and compliance with HIPAA regulations. While the content reflects real-life situations, it is not intended to represent any particular individual or group. Rather, it serves as a general reference to uphold confidentiality and protect the privacy of all participants.

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***Important Disclaimer***

• MentalHappy does not provide medical care or advice. By using our services, you acknowledge and agree that:

1. MentalHappy is not a medical care provider.
2. It is not a substitute for seeking medical care.
3. It does not provide therapy, medical, psychiatric, or psychological advice.
4. It cannot diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or condition.
5. Remember, this Disability Support Program is not for emergencies.some text
   • If you or another person is in danger, call 911 immediately.
   • If you are feeling suicidal, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline can help.