Seasonal Affective Disorder vs. Holiday Depression

The winter season can bring emotional challenges for many people, with some experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) while others face the stress and emotional toll of the holiday season leading to holiday depression. Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) aims to help individuals recognize the differences between these conditions and offers strategies to manage both.

“Many of us have days that we don’t feel like ourselves, and sometimes the winter months can enhance those feelings,” said Janet Brus, RN, program director for Senior Life Solutions at MRHC. “Be aware of how you are feeling. If you normally get up and perform your daily activities and instead find yourself staying in bed longer, not getting dressed, or avoiding activities, you may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder.”

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

SAD is a form of depression triggered by reduced sunlight. According to the American Psychiatric Association, its symptoms closely mirror those of depression, including:

  • Low mood and energy
  • Fatigue
  • Oversleeping or difficulty sleeping
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Cravings for carbohydrates and subsequent weight gain

To combat SAD, Brus recommends staying active, reading, maintaining a healthy diet, and seeking professional support if symptoms persist.

Understanding Holiday Depression

Unlike SAD, holiday depression is tied to stress, expectations, and emotions surrounding the holiday season. This time of year can trigger stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. Some people are excited to share Christmas with loved ones, while others are mourning a loss. Some are shopping for perfect gifts, but others are struggling financially and anxiously checking their bank accounts. Some can’t wait for their yearly Christmas party with friends and family; others may be stressed by the thought of it.

“Not everyone experiences the holidays in the same way,” shared Brus. “It’s important to prioritize mental health and address feelings of distress before they escalate.”

Practical Tips to Manage Holiday Depression

Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid pressure to create a perfect holiday. Focus on meaningful moments rather than perfection.

Maintain Routines: Stick to regular sleep, meals, and exercise routines, especially for children.

Establish Boundaries: Say no when needed to avoid burnout from over-commitment.

Engage in Self-Care: Dedicate time for relaxation and activities you enjoy.

Connect with Others: Combat loneliness by reaching out to friends, family, or support groups.

Manage Finances: Stick to a holiday budget and consider thoughtful, low-cost gifts.

For parents, taking time to engage with children, setting aside time where all devices (including parents’ cell phones) are put away, ensuring they aren’t isolating themselves, sticking to routines like consistent bedtimes, and having open conversations can help foster emotional well-being.

“This is a great time to connect with your children and build a close relationship to let them know that you are a safe person they can talk to,” said MRHC Mental Health Counselor Hollie Schechinger, LMSW. “Talk with your kids about their day during a fun activity where they can open up and not feel like they are being questioned. Most importantly, have fun with your kids!”

When to Seek Help

If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress persist and interfere with your daily routine, it is important to seek professional help. If you or your child are struggling with depression or anxiety, contact your primary care provider for an evaluation. MRHC also provides mental health services to support individuals of all ages:

Counseling Services: These services are available in person or virtually for individuals 12 and older. Call (712) 655-8100 to schedule an appointment.

Play Therapy: This is an intervention method to support children five and older in navigating traumatic experiences. Call (712) 655-8100 to schedule an appointment.

Senior Life Solutions: Group therapy for individuals 65+ struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions is available through this program at MRHC. Call (712) 655-8262 if you need support.

The Recovery Center: If the stress and pressure from the holidays have caused you or a loved one to turn to drugs and alcohol to cope, please call the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 for help. Residential and outpatient treatment are available.

If you or someone you know is in immediate distress, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or dial 988 for confidential, 24/7 support.

Learn More Here:

MENTAL HEALTH      SENIOR LIFE SOLUTIONS      RECOVERY CENTER

Michelle Price’s Impact at the Recovery Center

Michelle Price

Michelle PriceMichelle Price’s journey in healthcare began with a choice at Western Iowa Tech, where she selected practical nursing over welding, setting her on a path that would span over two decades and profoundly impact many lives.

“When I decided to go to college, there were two options locally, and I believe it was God who made my decision to become a nurse,” reflected Michelle, LPN.

Michelle began her nursing career by dedicating 19 years to caring for others through home health and working at the Manilla Manor. Her transition to the Recovery Center at MRHC in 2019 marked a significant pivot, driven by a desire for change and a deep-seated sense of calling.

“The reason I began working at the Recovery Center is because I had family members who dealt with alcoholism and addiction,” Michelle shared. “In 2016, I began attending the ‘source of recovery’ program after being encouraged by Esta Denton. I began to familiarize myself with the recovery community and after attending several functions with friends I saw the growth in clients’ eyes.”

Now as a nurse at the Manning Recovery Center (MRC), Michelle directly aids those recovering from addiction, witnessing transformative changes in their lives.

“I am so grateful that I am a part of the MRHC family and the recovery community,” shared Michelle. “My favorite part of my job is when I see clients come in, and they are usually broken inside, many without support, and with the help of all staff at MRC, the clients begin to grow, and I get to see the light come back into their lives.”

As September marks National Recovery Month, an annual observance to promote recovery practices; the recovery community; and the dedication of service providers; the Recovery Center takes pride in individuals like Michelle who work with passion and determination to help addicts. Michelle’s deep commitment to patient recovery resonates with her colleagues, who view her as an integral part of the Recovery Center.

MRC Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC, praises Michelle’s contributions saying, “Michelle is the kind, caring, and patient nurse we need here in the Recovery Center. It takes certain people to be able to work in this setting and she thrives here. She goes above and beyond for patients when they are here and with follow-up after. Patients continue to point out how much she cares and is available for them.”

In addition to a rewarding career where she can make a difference, Michelle values the team environment and support she receives from Manning Regional and MRC. She is also motivated by the drive and dedication of the leadership team.

“MRHC treats everyone like family, and I don’t feel like a number,” Michelle shared. “We are all encouraged to voice our concerns, and I feel heard. Taya’s drive to help the people in the community and those who struggle with substance abuse can be seen and felt by all.”

The choice to work in a rural setting like Manning’s has been another important factor for Michelle. She highlights the unique benefits of providing addiction services in a less populated area, where community bonds are strong, and the recovery community is notably supportive.

“Rural health care has always been a concern, so offering addiction services in a rural area is very important,” Michelle emphasized. “One of the many benefits of living in a small community is that people care. The recovery community in Manning is remarkable. I have had many clients tell me, ‘ALL of the staff treat me like I am worth something’ and ‘I’ve never been in a place that cares so much about me as a person’. I look forward to an expansion and pray for that daily because if we can make our 16 clients feel like they are important and give them hope I’d like to see MRC do that for another 16.”

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, click here or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Recovery Center Services

The Recovery Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment, and consultations or evaluations. The center’s trusted experts provide individuals with the right medical care, behavioral therapy, and social support to enable a healthy lifestyle free from drugs and alcohol. If you or someone you care about has problems with substance abuse, call (712) 655-2300. For more information, visit

Are Gaming or Gambling Habits More than a Hobby?

Gambling, sports betting, and video games – we all know they can be fun in moderation. But when do they become more than just a hobby? The community is invited to learn more about addictive behaviors such as sports betting, gambling, and gaming disorder at the “Addiction to Gambling and Gaming” event on Tuesday, March 12th from 4-6 pm at the Timmerman Shelter House at City Park in Manning. This is a free, come-and-go event for adults and children hosted by the Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center, the City of Manning, and New Opportunities.

“We know that we live in a tech-filled world, and this has made activities, such as gambling, easy to access and indulge in, to the point of affecting lives and relationships,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “The same goes for gaming; this is at anyone’s fingertips including children. We are hoping to educate the community on how these behaviors can lead to addiction and how to get help if needed.”

Attendees will learn how to identify symptoms of addiction and gambling-related lifestyle changes; understand the risks and consequences associated with gambling, sports betting, and gaming; discover how gambling can begin in adolescence; and learn when these common pastimes are considered a problem. The event will also address myths surrounding sports betting, similarities between video games and gambling, and how video game developers design games to be addictive.

For additional support regarding a gambling addiction, the Recovery Center offers problem gambling services on an outpatient basis that can be added to recovery services. Gambling services also include financial counseling with therapy. Call (712) 655-2300 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Melinda’s Journey: From Addiction to Redemption at the Recovery Center

Melinda Melby

Melinda Melby’s life took an unexpected turn, one that led her through darkness but eventually to recovery and transformation. Today, as an administrative assistant and intake coordinator at the Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center in Manning, Iowa, Melinda is not only rebuilding her life but also extending a guiding hand to others on their own journeys to sobriety.

“I love what I do and the people I work with today, but if you were to ask me years ago what I would be doing today, I would not have thought I would be helping other addicts get the help that they deserve,” Melinda admitted.

Her story began in Dunlap, Iowa, where she grew up and graduated from Boyer Valley High School. She went on to receive a degree from Vatterott College and embarked on a career in clerical work while raising her two daughters, Mackenzie and Karly. However, in 1996, Melinda’s life took an unfortunate turn. For 23 years, she grappled with addiction, until 2019, when she took a pivotal step toward recovery.

“In March of 2019, I became sober and decided to get my life in order,” Melinda stated. “I received treatment at the Manning Recovery Center, and the skills I learned there helped me in my journey to sobriety. I changed my life for the better and promised myself and my kids I would do the best I could with my life and sobriety. That is the day that my new life began.”

Determined to make a positive change, Melinda embraced a new beginning. With unwavering commitment, she has remained sober for over four and a half years, achieving personal milestones, and setting her sights on further goals. In 2022, an opportunity arose at the Recovery Center for an administrative assistant role. Recognizing the chance to pay forward the support she received during her recovery, Melinda eagerly applied. Since joining the team in July 2022, her life has taken on new purpose.

“The Recovery Center is more than just a job for me,” Melinda expressed. “It is a chance to help other addicts get their lives back and show them that a different lifestyle is possible. The Recovery Center is more than just a treatment center for me and most clients, it is a safe place where patients can go to find themselves and work through past traumas. Something I wouldn’t have been able to do on my own. The Recovery Center means more than anyone will ever know as it changed my life for the better, and that is why I love working here now. I get to help others in their journey to sobriety.”

As the administrative assistant and intake coordinator, Melinda plays a vital role in managing the 16-bed inpatient unit. Her responsibilities include handling referrals, conducting intake procedures, verifying insurance coverage, and offering empathetic support to patients by sharing aspects of her own recovery journey.

“Working at the Recovery Center is one of the best decisions I’ve made since becoming sober,” Melinda shared. “Working there is like having a second family. I know when I walk through those doors everyone in there has my back and is willing to help me out in any way that I need.”

Her dedication to her current role extends even further. Melinda is working towards obtaining her CADC certification as an alcohol and drug counselor as her ultimate aspiration is to evolve into a counselor so she can continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.

“Melinda is such a great asset to our team,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “She cares for the patients in every aspect of their journey and works hard to help them get into treatment as soon possible. She is willing to jump in anywhere where help is needed and is a great team player. We have been very blessed to have her join us!”

Melinda’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and paying it forward. Her journey from addiction to redemption is not only a testament to her strength but also a beacon of hope for those still navigating their paths toward sobriety. Through her work at the Recovery Center, Melinda stands as a living testament that a brighter future is within reach for anyone committed to the journey of recovery. To learn more about the Recovery Center, visit www.mrhcia.com/recovery-center/

To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Supporting a Loved One’s Road to Recovery from Addiction

taya vonnahme

For concerned friends and family of those struggling with addiction, getting the help their loved one needs can be a three-fold challenge: knowing where their role starts and stops in an addict’s recovery journey, supporting them with a mindset that leads to lasting recovery, and helping them find treatment that is a good fit.

taya vonnahme“The fundamental thing to understand is they have to come to their own decision about sobriety. You can’t make it for them,” advises Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “If you want to influence them to seek help, talk to them clearly and calmly about your concerns. Make repeat offers to help find information about rehabilitation programs. Don’t nag and try to force them; gentle encouragement can go a long way.”

Vonnahme also points out that those supporting someone struggling with addiction need to take care of their own mental and physical health. Setting personal boundaries and knowing when it’s time to take a step back is necessary in getting them the help they need to fight this disease. If your health or safety are suffering because of their actions, cutting ties completely may be the rock bottom a loved one needs to get help.

Support for Lasting Recovery

Individuals who have watched loved ones suffer from addiction share that one of the most important things to do as a support system is help the addict know they are not alone or being judged. We know addiction is a disease and not a choice.

Showing empathy towards the addict as well as what got them to this point is also crucial. Past abuse or trauma, loss of identity due to retirement or a job loss, stress from family circumstances, and feelings of letting people down are all common examples of things that can push someone over the edge into the downward spiral of addiction.

“It’s important for people to get their stories out there and have them be heard,” notes Angela*, who has lost loved ones to addiction. “That’s the whole point of this process. They need to speak their truth, and they need to get their trauma and experiences out there and feel safe doing so. There’s just a lot of fear for addicts that there’s going to be judgement.”

The Right Fit

Finding support in community is one side of the coin for lasting recovery; finding proper treatment is the other. And that’s where options like MRHC’s Recovery Center come in.

“Many clients who come into the Recovery Center at MRHC start out thinking that they’re in this alone,” says an MRHC Recovery Center counselor. “They might not have the best family support or the best friends, some may have even led them down this path in the first place. At the Recovery Center, we like to reinforce that we’re all in this together and that every single person here has experienced an addiction in one way or another. All our counselors have had experience with addiction, whether it was our own personal addiction or an immediate family member’s. Clients find themselves able to truly open up and feel safe talking about it because we’ve all been there. We know how to get them through it.”

Uniquely located inside a hospital, MRHC’s recovery center bases their treatment, care, and support around the principle that there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” approach when it comes to recovery. Licensed counselors build relationships with each client to better understand who they are and where they are coming from to determine what strategies will best help them reach their drug or alcohol-free goals.

If you or a loved one needs help, contact the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

*This individual’s name has been changed for privacy.

Recovery Center Works to Prevent Overdose Deaths

overdose

Drug overdose is one of the leading causes of death for people ages 18-45. Nearly 110,000 people have died due to drug overdose in the last year, making August 31st, Overdose Awareness Day, more important than ever.taya vonnahme

“Overdose is something everyone should be aware of,” shared Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “Not only is overdose a concern in the addiction world but also in general practice. We see overdoses all the time for various reasons – alcohol, opiates, and drug related. Some are unintentional from prescription pain medications that were accidentally taken incorrectly.”

The Recovery Center is dedicated to raising awareness of drug overdose and helping prevent future deaths caused by an overdose.

“Everyone should educate themselves on the signs of a possible overdose and know what to do if it is suspected,” Vonnahme recommended.

Typical signs of an overdose can include one or several of the following:

  • Unconsciousness
  • Seizure
  • Severe headache
  • Chest pain
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Extremely paranoid, agitated, and/or confused
  • Snoring or gurgling

Seek emergency help by calling 911 if someone is exhibiting these symptoms. Prior to emergency personnel arriving, follow these steps:

  • Administer *Naloxone if available
  • Support breathing by ensuring their airway is clear and giving breaths
  • Monitor their response
  • Do not forcefully try to awake them
  • Don’t try to make them vomit

When help arrives, it is vital to provide as much information as possible about the overdose. Details such as what type of drug and how much was taken and how long ago it was taken can help save a life.

“One of the best things I have seen that can assist someone who has overdosed is Naloxone,” Vonnahme said. “It saves lives every day and anyone can learn how to use it. It is also available to anyone who may need it no matter the reason. If you know someone who uses any type of opiate, prescription, or recreational drug they should know about this and learn how to use it.”

*Naloxone is a non-addictive, life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. Given as a nasal spray, auto-injector, or injectable, naloxone can be purchased from most pharmacies without a prescription. If you or someone you know is at increased risk for opioid overdose, you should carry naloxone and keep it at home. People who are taking high-dose opioid medications (>50 morphine milligram equivalents per day) prescribed by a doctor and people who use opioids and benzodiazepines together should also carry naloxone, according to the CDC.

Recovery Center Services

If you or someone you care about has problems with substance abuse, help is available. The sooner a person can get help, the better the long-term chance for recovery. If you feel that you need help or guidance, contact the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

The Recovery Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and consultations or evaluations. Recovery Center staff have adapted treatments to meet addiction issues, from alcoholism to meth to the abuse of prescription painkillers. For four decades, staff have helped clients take their first step toward healthy, drug and alcohol-free lifestyles. For more information, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com.

Mental Health Resources at MRHC

mental health services

“Based on the outcomes of our latest Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), mental health is one of the main concerns of our rural communities,” shared MRHC Education Coordinator, Julie Hodne, RN. “So, we are prioritizing mental health support, increasing available mental health resources, and sharing insight to better help people of all ages.”

Hollie Schechinger, a counselor at the Recovery Center at MRHC will be adding to her responsibilities in the coming weeks to serve as a full-time mental health counselor. Schechinger will begin seeing patients ages 12 and older beginning in June.

Mental health continues to affect many people regardless of their age, gender, medical history, life status, etc. and MRHC recognizes that a “one size fits all” approach to treatment does not work. MRHC strives to offer a variety of mental health services for different ages and needs.

According to the CDC, one in five people, including children, will experience a mental illness at some point in their life. With that in mind, it is important to be aware of common mental health warning signs.

Common Warning Signs in Children
  • Ongoing behavior problems at school, home, or daycare
  • Constant movement or hyperactivity
  • Frequent and unexplainable temper tantrums, outbursts, or explosive emotional reactions
  • Unusual fears/worries, thoughts, beliefs, feelings, or behaviors
  • Having a hard time getting involved with age appropriate activities
  • Difficulty concentrating, paying attention, or being organized for their age level
  • Lack of interest in friends and avoiding or isolating from friends and family
  • Negative moods for long periods of time
  • Obsession on certain thoughts, activities, or actions
  • Lack of energy even when well rested
  • Difficulty with sleeping
  • Frequent physical complaints with no obvious cause
  • Sad or hopeless feeling with no reason
  • Self-harm or talk of self-injury or suicide
  • Persistent nightmares or visual or audio hallucinations
  • Eating problems (too little or too much)
  • Violence towards others, animals, or property
  • Refusing to go to school and ongoing decline in school performance
  • Risky or dangerous behaviors like sexually acting out, recklessness, or running away

“Depending on the severity of their behaviors, we recommend that parents call to schedule a mental health evaluation with a mental health provider,” said Schechinger, LMSW. “If a child is making comments of self-harm or suicide, take them to the nearest emergency room.”

If you notice some of these warning signs, the CDC recommends several strategies for helping children cope with mental health issues. Talk to them about and validate their feelings of stress or sadness, reassure their safety, let them know it is okay to feel upset, be a good role model, spend time together, and provide professional support if needed. It is also important to limit their social media exposure, provide fun and relaxing activities, and maintain regular routines.

While symptoms can be similar to children’s, warning signs in adults often involve:

  • Decrease in enjoyment from and isolating from friends and family
  • Significant decrease in school or work performance or resisting to attend
  • Memory, attention, and concentration problems
  • Large changes in energy levels, eating, and sleeping patterns
  • Physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches, backaches)
  • Feeling hopeless, sad, anxious, or crying often
  • Frequent aggression, disobedience, or lashing out verbally
  • Neglect of personal hygiene
  • Substance abuse
  • Dangerous or illegal thrill-seeking behavior
  • Being overly suspicious of others
  • Visual or auditory hallucinations

“Some effective ways to help cope with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders include going for a walk, reading a book, calling a friend, taking a nap, playing with animals, exercising, spending time with family or friends, taking a shower, watching a favorite movie or TV show, eating a snack, and going out to eat with friends or family,” Schechinger recommended.

Schechinger goes on to advise that if these strategies are not helping, it’s important to see a mental health provider for an evaluation and to follow their recommendations for treatment.

“MRHC provides outpatient mental health support through a therapist, medication management, and substance abuse addiction services through the Recovery Center if needed,” Schechinger shared.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Mental illness and addiction can often go together. Individuals with mental health disorders are statistically proven to be at high risk for addiction and those struggling with addiction have a high risk for mental health disorders, especially depression and anxiety.

“Rarely do we treat someone who has an addiction that does not have at least one mental health diagnosis as well,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “These two iare very different diagnoses and have different treatments but are still associated with each other in various ways.”

Mental issues are sometimes signs of substance abuse as well. Psychological warning signs of drug abuse that can be seen as mental health issues are things such as changes in personality or attitude; sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts; and appearing fearful, anxious, or paranoid for no reason.

“Here at the Recovery Center, we have mental health therapists who come once a week to meet with clients. In addition to that, when I see clients, I help them address many of these issues from a medical standpoint,” Vonnahme said. “This is an area we are working to expand in the near future.”

Mental Health in Aging Individuals

Elderly individuals can also suffer from the effects of mental illness. Things such as more physical complaints, frequent ER visits, sleeping problems, low energy, cognitive issues, weight loss or gain, and isolation from family and friends can all result from an individual dealing with a mental health issue.

“Oftentimes, people attribute these changes as part of the aging process, but that’s not always necessarily the cause,” said Senior Life Solutions Program Director, Janet Brus, RN.

If you notice these things in a loved one, it is important to be aware of other red flags that may point to a mental health issue.

  • Change in physical status – not eating, losing, or gaining weight, or eating junk food
  • Increased irritability when normally very pleasant and easy going
  • Previously independent with daily tasks and now relies on someone to get groceries, pay bills, shower, etc.
  • Misplacing things
  • Talking about feeling lonely and isolated
  • An increase or start in using alcohol or other substances
  • Poor medication compliance

For elderly individuals over the age of 65 who are struggling with depression or anxiety, the Senior Life Solutions program at MRHC offers group counseling sessions that have seen great success.

“People often find a common ground with each other as they have all been through some of the same life experiences and enjoy the support from each other,” shared Brus. “It also makes them get up, leave their home, and gives them a purpose. We all need a purpose – something to get up and do and look forward to each day. Without purpose, one would just stay in bed and no longer participate in life.”

Family members, physicians, or other health professionals can refer individuals to the Senior Life Solutions program. For those interested in learning more or signing up, call 712-655-8262.

If you need additional mental health information, education, or would like to discuss support, please schedule an appointment with your primary care physician by calling (712) 655-8100 to discuss treatment options. For those 65 and older, call Senior Life Solutions at (712) 655-8262. Or call the Manning Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

Bolin Uses Personal Experience to Make a Difference at Recovery Center

Emmalee Bolin

Emmalee BolinEmmalee Bolin works as a counselor at the Recovery Center at MRHC and shares that her personal experience with addiction and recovery is what inspires her to help others.

“I actually attended the Manning Recovery Center in 2014,” said Bolin, LBSW, CADC. “I gained so much knowledge and understanding through my own experiences as an addict that I wanted a career where I could help others who also struggle.”

Following her own journey to recovery, Bolin worked as a Parent Partner with the DHS Mentor Program for three years before becoming the coordinator. In 2017, she received her associate degree from DMACC and went on to Briar Cliff for her bachelor’s degree in social work. After moving to Templeton in 2020, she accepted a position at the MRHC Recovery Center, saying, “I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work where it all started.”

“Emmalee is a hard worker, she is always willing to jump in and cover when something needs to be done, and she is the first to volunteer to learn something new or obtain an additional license,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “You always know when Emmalee is around because we can hear her laugh throughout the Recovery Center. She is a wonderful person to have here!”

Bolin works as a counselor at the Recovery Center, a role that consists of leading group therapy sessions and following up with her case load of inpatient and outpatient clients.

“We work on the root causes that brought them to using drugs and alcohol,” explained Bolin. “I get to connect with clients and give them a sense of hope that they can get and stay clean and sober too. If I can make an impact on one person and help others to consider there is a better way of life than living in active addiction, then all my effort is worth it. Coming from experience, I want to help people who are going through addiction and show them a new way. I am tangible evidence that recovery is possible.”

In addition to utilizing her personal experience with addiction to help Recovery Center clients, Bolin points out that the support from others also makes a big impact.

“We have such a good recovery community here that embraces the clients and really cares about them,” said Bolin. “Our rural community, although small, has welcoming, thriving, and active recovery members. We have speakers from the area and past clients who come to share their experience, strength, and hopes to current clients. If it wasn’t for the recovery community in the Manning area, I don’t think we would be such a highly regarded facility.”

Bolin also has a great support system at the Recovery Center to help her do her job to the best of her ability. “I truly feel like we have a good team atmosphere,” said Bolin. “We all communicate well and when something happens or a coworker is out, we take charge of what needs to be done for our clients. I feel like my coworkers are my family.”

While it is important for Bolin to work in a positive team environment, she also appreciates the way the recovery process is structured as well as how clients are treated in Manning.

“I feel like we truly treat clients with respect. The Recovery Center staff treats clients as human beings who have an illness, not as criminals,” Bolin said. “We provide them with outlets like recreation and outside 12-step meetings. Although our clients may have a past, we truly believe through staying clean and sober they can become better people in society.”

While Bolin’s goal for all her clients is to help them achieve lasting sobriety and leave the Recovery Center with the knowledge and tools to live healthy, drug-free lives, she has no intention of leaving any time soon and is ambitious about the future of her career.

“My goal is to eventually get my masters in social work,” Bolin shared. “I am a good leader and have always been in management throughout my years of employment. I would love to be the director of the Recovery Center one day.”To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Recovery Center Services

The Recovery Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and consultations or evaluations. Recovery Center staff have adapted treatments to meet addiction issues from alcoholism to meth to the abuse of prescription painkillers. If you or someone you care about has problems with substance abuse, call (712) 655-2300. For more information, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com

What is Considered Alcohol Abuse?

Brad Madsen

By Bradley Madsen, Recovery Clinical Coordinator  

Summer is here and that means more people are out socializing and enjoying a beverage or two. However, have you ever wondered what constitutes drinking too much? Alcohol abuse is defined as “the habitual misuse of alcohol”, meaning that a person consumes excessive amounts of alcohol.

Here is a pop quiz. For each question you answer “yes,” give yourself a point.

1. Have you ever set out to have ‘a quick drink or two’ but ended up having more drinks than you intended? Or did you stay at the bar drinking past the time you said you’d be home for dinner?
2. Have you ever thought “I really want/need to cut down on my drinking”, but struggled to do so?
3. Have you ever spent more time drinking alcohol or recovering from drinking than you would like?
4. Do you ever crave or have a strong desire to have a drink?
5. Have you missed major role obligations (work, school, or home) more than once because you were impaired or busy drinking?
6. Do you continue to use alcohol despite persistent or recurrent social (or interpersonal) problems caused or made worse by drinking alcohol?
7. Have you continued to drink despite knowing you have persistent, or recurrent mental or physical health problems caused or made worse by alcohol use?
8. Have you given up or reduced social, occupational, or recreational activities because of alcohol use?
9. Have you used alcohol when it was dangerous to do so? (Drinking and driving or drinking despite liver problems).
10. Have you noticed that you have developed a tolerance to alcohol? (It takes more alcohol to feel buzzed than it did in the past. Or you notice you can drink more now without feeling as impaired as you might have in the past).
11. Do you ever feel ill when you don’t drink for a couple of days?

These questions represent the diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorders as defined by the DSM-5 (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition)

Scoring:
2-3 “yes” answers – You may have a mild alcohol use disorder.
4-5 “yes” answers – You likely have a moderate alcohol use disorder.
6+ “yes” answers – You likely have a severe alcohol use disorder.

If you (or someone you know) meet the criteria for an alcohol use disorder, you aren’t alone. According to the NIH, one in eight Americans meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder. Does this mean you are an ‘alcoholic’? Not necessarily, but it does mean that you are putting yourself at risk to develop alcoholism.

If you or someone you care about has problems with alcohol (or other substances), help is available locally. The sooner a person can get help, the better the long-term chance for recovery. Alcoholism is a disease, not a moral failing, a choice, or weakness. If you feel that you need help or guidance, reach out to your physician, or contact the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

The Recovery Center at MRHC is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and consultations or evaluations. Recovery Center staff have adapted treatments to meet the most pressing or newly emergent addiction issues, from alcoholism to the influx of meth to the abuse of prescription painkillers. For nearly four decades, staff have consistently helped clients take their first step toward healthy, drug and alcohol-free lifestyles.

For more information about the Recovery Center in Manning, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com.

Manning Recovery Center Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Recovery Center 40th Celebration

The Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center is celebrating 40 years of providing substance abuse recovery services in western Iowa.

“This is an incredible milestone for our facility and the many clients we have served throughout the years,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, tCADC.

To celebrate, all friends of recovery are invited to join The Recovery Center staff on August 6, 2022, at the Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park Konferenz Center from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. This free event will include a luncheon, welcome from the Recovery Center Director, testimonials of recovery, and networking among all in attendance.

“The Recovery Center has had such an impact on not only the clients, but also their friends, family, and communities. We want to celebrate that success, continue to be advocates for substance abuse, spread awareness that treatment is available in Manning, and share how it has had a lifechanging impact on so many people,” said Vonnahme.

To RSVP to the 40th Anniversary Celebration, call (712) 655-2300.

Recovery Center History

The Manning General Hospital Substance Abuse Treatment Unit (SAT Unit) opened in December 1982 after a study of the area found that substance abuse treatment services were needed. The Iowa Department of Health issued the Center a Certificate of Need, and clients were first accepted for residential treatment on January 17, 1983. The facility has grown and increased its services since.

When the hospital moved to its current location in 2014, the Recovery Center moved as well. The new space allowed for more natural light in patient rooms and space for indoor and outdoor recreation. Today the Recovery Center provides services including residential and outpatient treatment, detoxification, and education.

Initially there were only five staff members, however the Recovery Center’s staff now consists of a multi-disciplinary team including a medical director, an administrative assistant, 24-hour nursing services, four licensed substance abuse counselors, two full-time and four part-time counselor techs, a nurse care coordinator, family therapist, licensed clinical coordinator, psychologist, and a director.

To learn more about Recovery Center services, call (712) 655-2300.

The Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. The Recovery Center has trusted experts on staff who can provide individuals the right medical care, behavioral therapy, and social support to enable a healthy lifestyle free from drugs and alcohol. For more information about the Recovery Center, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com.