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Envision Unlimited Blog

Mark McHugh's Message

Self Esteem is Alive and Well at Envision Unlimited

Dear friends, self esteem is the confidence we have in our abilities and own worth. Every day we witness remarkable self-esteem building within our Envision Unlimited family. Confidence plays a big role in how our members achieve their greatest potential.

Envision Unlimited athletes compete in Special Olympics snow shoes races

Envision Unlimited athletes medal in Special Olympics snowshoe races

Members from Envision Unlimited Frick Center traveled to Galena, in late January, to compete against other Illinois athletes in three days of Special Olympics snowshoe racing. They had a wonderful time.

Picture of the Kindness Team

Kindness Team spreads kindness near and far

Making sure those in need know that someone cares and doing what they can to help is the mission of the Kindness Team at Envision Unlimited Westtown Center. Founded in March 2022, the idea started in one Westtown morning meeting when staff and members were discussing the war in Ukraine.

Mom with child and friend

How to support a parent with a neurodivergent child

Do you have a friend or family member with a neurodivergent child and want to know how you can help? There are many ways you can provide support.

Playing toss with a beach ball

The Benefits of Group Living

Stable housing is a fundamental human need. However, finding and keeping stable housing isn't easy for everyone. In particular, individuals who experience mental illness or live with intellectual and developmental disabilities often struggle to obtain housing, stay housed, and perform activities of daily living.

Holding hands supportively

How To Support Someone With Mental Illness

Mental illness is challenging to navigate, both for the people who live with it and their loved ones. Often, it can be difficult for friends or family members to know how to best help someone who is experiencing poor mental health. Should you give them space? Check in with them more often? Ask how they're doing, or offer a distraction?

Let's build bridges, not walls

Creating a Culture that Supports Everyone

With the recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day each year, we are always reminded of Dr. King’s support for a culture that protects and nourishes every community and every person. He had an important vision for a free and equal world and dedicated himself to expanding opportunity, ending all forms of discrimination, and pursuing social justice.

Older man painting a portrait

Creative Activities are Enriching

Creative outlets are beneficial for everyone. Whether it's crafting, cooking, dancing, or even decorating your home, creativity helps us relax, explore new perspectives, and express ourselves. Aside from their recreational benefits, creative activities can be exceptionally impactful and empowering for individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities.

Group Therapy

Ever heard the term Psychosocial Rehabilitation?

Also known as psychiatric rehabilitation, psychosocial rehabilitation focuses on restoring functional independence to people who live with mental illness. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), it is "the process of enhancing the recovery of individuals with severe mental illness by teaching or restoring psychological, behavioral, social, and vocational skills that will enable them to function in their community."

Coffee with friends

Tips for Protecting Your Mental Health

If you've been feeling depressed, anxious, or stressed lately, you're not alone. According to statistics recently released by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the number of adults receiving mental treatment increased from 2019 to 2021.