MRHC Welcomes Mental Health Therapist, Tiffany Johnson

Tiffany Johnson

Tiffany JohnsonManning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to welcome Mental Health Therapist, Tiffany Johnson, T-LMHC, as the newest addition to the mental health team starting in September. With a strong background in community service, a passion for helping others, and specialized training, Tiffany brings a compassionate and insightful approach to supporting the mental health needs of all ages.

“Bringing Tiffany on board is a great step in expanding mental health support at MRHC,” said CEO Shannon Black. “Having an additional therapist available helps ensure that more individuals and families in our area can access the counseling services they need, when they need them most.”

Tiffany’s professional experience includes years of ministry and youth counseling at Trinity Lutheran Church and Zion Lutheran Church. It was during this time that she became deeply aware of the growing mental health crisis, especially among adolescents. That awareness ultimately inspired her to pursue a career in mental health counseling.

“I believe mental health care is essential for everyone,” Tiffany shared. “We have seen a spike in mental illness since the pandemic, and there is such a need for counselors at the moment. I believe coping mechanisms need to be learned more broadly and that there should never be a stigma surrounding mental health. In so many ways, mental illness is much like a physical illness; however, it needs to be talked about more.”

Counseling Services

Tiffany is trained in Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and SMART Stepfamily Therapy. She has a particular interest in grief counseling, helping those impacted by spiritual abuse, and is committed to tailoring therapy methods to each client’s individual needs. While she will work with individuals of all ages, Tiffany brings valuable experience working with pre-teens, teenagers, and young adults.

In her new role at MRHC, Tiffany is excited to continue her mission of serving her neighbors with professional, empathetic care.

“My goal has always been to work in my community and serve the people I know and care about,” Tiffany said. “I want to be able to professionally help those in my community and the surrounding areas, as mental health not only affects the individual, but the entire community. My late husband and I served these communities in the best way we knew how. Now, my ability to serve just looks a little different.”

Tiffany is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University-Irvine and is set to graduate in August 2025. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a Master of Arts in Deaconess Studies.

Tiffany will begin seeing patients in September. To schedule an appointment or learn more about mental health services at MRHC, please call 712-655-2072.

Mental Health Matters: MRHC Addresses Pressing Concerns

Mental health struggles don’t always look the same. Sometimes, it’s visible in tears and isolation. Other times, it’s hidden behind a smile or a busy schedule. Mental health affects all of us, regardless of age, background, or life circumstances, but many people suffer in silence because they think they have to.

This Mental Health Month, MRHC is challenging that narrative. We’re here to say: You’re not alone. Mental health is part of your overall health, and getting support is necessary. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of daily life, facing a major life transition, or supporting someone through a hard time, mental health plays a role in how we feel, think, and interact with others. And just like physical health, it requires care and attention.

What We’re Seeing Right Now

Based on the outcomes of the latest Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), mental health is one of the main concerns of our rural communities. MRHC mental health professionals are seeing rising levels of anxiety across all age groups. Anxiety can be especially isolating. It’s not just “worrying too much”; it can cause physical symptoms like trouble sleeping, fatigue, or even frequent trips to the ER, especially in older adults. Many people express feelings of hopelessness, depression, or fear that they’ll never feel “normal” again. For people experiencing those feelings, MRHC’s Mental Health Therapist, Hollie Schechinger, LISW, shares an important reminder that “that feeling is temporary, and it will go away. However, the decisions made on that feeling could be permanent.”

In older adults, grief and loss often lead to loneliness and disconnection. Life without a long-time partner can be disorienting, especially when routines, like sharing meals or attending events, suddenly shift. Changes in physical health and independence can also lead to feelings of sadness or frustration. These emotional shifts can impact physical health too, often worsening aches, pains, or illnesses that might otherwise be manageable.

Why Talking Helps and Why It Matters Who You Talk To

The stigma around mental health often prevents people from seeking help, but starting the conversation can break down those barriers. Talking to a friend is a great start, but working with a licensed therapist can be especially beneficial. A friend may offer advice based on personal experiences, but a therapist provides professional support, tools, and a confidential space to talk openly without judgment. Therapists use evidence-based techniques to help you understand your emotions and move toward healing at your own pace.

Tips for Talking to Someone Who’s Struggling

If you know someone dealing with a mental health challenge, you don’t have to have all the answers, but your approach can make a difference. Here are some helpful ways to start the conversation:

  1. Choose a quiet, comfortable place free of distractions.
  2. Ease into the conversation gently. Sometimes just saying, “I’m here” is enough.
  3. Speak calmly and stick to one topic at a time.
  4. Listen more than you speak and make eye contact.
  5. Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements to avoid sounding accusatory. Try saying, “I hear that you’re having a rough day. I understand.” Avoid saying, “You just need to change your attitude” or “Stop focusing on the negative”.
  6. Be patient. Let them open up on their terms, and don’t rush the conversation.
  7. Offer support through questions like, “How can I help?”. Avoid comments like “Just pray about it” or “Everyone feels that way sometimes.” These can make someone feel even more isolated.

What Parents Can Do

It is evident that kids and teenagers are struggling too. The best thing parents and caregivers can do is be present. “Talk with them, cry with them, listen to them, and teach them it is okay to not be okay and it will get better,” Schechinger advised. “Kids follow what their parents or guardians teach them, so encourage them to express what they are feeling and validate that, even if you do not like what they feel, they need to know it is okay to have different emotions.”

Break the Stigma

Mental health professionals at MRHC agree—one of the most important steps we can take is to break the stigma that still surrounds mental health. The team at Senior Life Solutions shared how vital it is to “help everyone understand that mental health is an important part of everyone’s health and needs to be nurtured/attended to regularly.”

Schechinger emphasized the importance of “breaking the stigma of mental health so people don’t feel like they will be judged for getting help. We need to work together to let people know that there are options for help, and they don’t have to let their mental health define their life.”

Need Help? MRHC Is Here for You              

Whether you’re seeking individual counseling, group support, or resources for a loved one, MRHC offers mental health services designed to meet you where you are.

Counseling for All Ages: Hollie Schechinger offers in-person and telehealth counseling for ages five and up. No referral needed.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Virtual appointments and medication management are available for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. Provider referrals are recommended but not required.

Play Therapy for Children: For kids struggling to express their emotions, play therapy helps them process trauma and build coping skills through creative play.

Senior Life Solutions: Individual and group counseling for adults over 65 dealing with depression and anxiety related to aging.

Recovery Center: Integrated care for those facing addiction and mental health issues, with medical, behavioral, and social support

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.

 

Janet’s Journey from Nursing to Mental Health

Janet Brus wide shot

Janet BrusWhat started as a career in nursing for Janet Brus, RN, gradually evolved into a focus on mental health. Her career path led her to her current role as Program Director for Senior Life Solutions at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), where she has made a lasting impact on her patients.

After graduating from Iowa Methodist School of Nursing in Des Moines, Janet quickly immersed herself in patient care, gaining valuable experience on the medical/surgical floor at Iowa Lutheran Hospital.

“I was able to float to different floors where I touched on the care of cardiac, orthopedic, renal, and urological patients,” Janet shared. But she soon came to a realization. “The city life was just not for me, and I found myself coming home on the weekends that I did not work.”

After returning to her rural roots and getting married, Janet transitioned to Myrtue Medical Center, where she worked in labor and delivery and the medical/surgical units. It was during this period that she began to build her family, eventually shifting to home health care—a role she embraced for 15 years. Janet’s career also included 13 years as the Health and Wellness Manager at the Denison Job Corps, where she cared for students with a wide range of health needs, inspiring her to pursue a career in mental health.

Janet Transitions to the Mental Health Field

“I have always worked in the healthcare field, no matter the role. However, my transition to mental health was a gradual process as I encountered people who experienced mental health concerns,” Janet explained. “I did not set out to work in the mental health area, but I certainly do have a soft spot for people who are experiencing mental health concerns because the stigma is definitely there.”

In 2019, Janet took on her current role with Senior Life Solutions at MRHC, a program that provides counseling services for seniors over 65 struggling with depression and anxiety. Her goal as the program director is to ensure that every patient knows she genuinely cares.

“I will pursue every avenue to make sure that I can help someone,” she emphasized. “If there is an option to help, I will do all within my power to make that happen. Each person needs to feel comfortable to be here. After all, this is their space to heal. Whatever I can do to facilitate that, I will.”

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of Janet’s approach. “What happens here, stays here,” she stated firmly. She works tirelessly to create a safe, home-like environment where patients feel supported as they navigate their mental health journey.

A Supportive Environment at MRHC

Janet credits the positive work culture at MRHC as well as the administrative staff for enabling her to thrive in her role and provide the best care for patients.

“MRHC staff are amazing. They have been incredible as far as support to make sure that we can fully take care of our patients. We know we can call anyone for assistance,” Janet shared. “I appreciate the support that we have from the administrative staff to be able to do our jobs and do it well. They are there if we need something, but we have the autonomy to make it our program.”

She also appreciates the newly remodeled space dedicated to Senior Life Solutions, which includes a separate entrance to ensure privacy and comfort for patients.

Working in a small town like Manning also reaffirms her decision to provide care in a rural health setting. “I get to know my patients and their families and see them in the community,” she said. This connection fuels her ongoing efforts to break the stigma surrounding mental health, especially among the senior population. “Our seniors are so resilient, and I want them to be the best they can be. I am here to help with that.”

Janet Brus’s career is a testament to the power of compassion and the impact of creating a supportive, patient-centered environment. As the Program Director for Senior Life Solutions, she continues to touch lives and foster healing, one patient at a time.

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

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

MRHC Expands Mental Health Services

child playing in sand table

Hollie SchechingerMRHC is continually working to address one of the primary health concerns affecting our rural communities, mental health. Hollie Schechinger, LMSW, provides counseling in Manning Monday-Thursday for patients 12 and older and is now accepting virtual telehealth appointments. Referrals are not needed. Schechinger is also now offering play therapy for children 5+. This is an intervention method to support children navigating traumatic experiences. As it can be challenging for children to articulate their emotions verbally, play therapy enables them to express themselves, process and communicate their traumatic experiences, and learn coping mechanisms through play.

“Play therapy is designed for children to work through trauma by telling the story in a way they know how, through play,” said Schechinger.

The focus will be on sand play therapy, utilizing a designated sand tray alongside an assortment of miniature figurines. This intervention method allows children to build boundaries, hopes, and safe places in their lives by making them in the sand tray. An array of toys, including those simulating courtroom scenarios or facilitating imaginative role-play through puppet shows and kitchen sets, will also be used. The objective is to empower children to address and prepare for potentially stressful situations. child playing in sand table

To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (712) 655-8100. If you need additional mental health information, education, or would like to discuss support, please contact your primary care physician at (712) 655-2072. For those 65 and older, call Senior Life Solutions at (712) 655-8262. Or call the Manning Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 and talk to a professional.

MRHC Welcomes Dina Irwin, New Mental Health Provider

Dina Irwin

Dina IrwinMRHC is continually working to address one of the primary health concerns affecting our rural communities, mental health. The MRHC Specialty Clinic is excited to welcome Dina Irwin, PMHNP-BC, who is now offering virtual appointments on the first and third Monday every month to diagnose and treat mental health disorders.

“People in rural areas have mental illnesses just like people living in cities,” said Irwin. “Unfortunately, they don’t always have access to the health care that they need. I am really looking forward to reaching out to those unable to find local services and help them right where they live.”

Certified for the entire lifespan, Irwin works with patients ages five years and up. She can treat patients suffering from anxiety, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, a variety of mood disorders, and more.

“I have had my own struggles with anxiety and depression, and I strive to pay that forward,” Irwin shared. “I also have experience with my own son, who is autistic. Mental health issues influence every part of our lives – our relationships, our contributions to our community, work productivity, and realizing our full potential. Optimal mental health means living your best life.”

Irwin received her ADN from Western Iowa Tech, her BSN from the University of Wisconsin, and her MSN from Allen College. She then attended Briar Cliff University for a postgraduate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Call (712) 655-8100 to schedule an appointment with Irwin. Provider referrals are recommended.

If you need additional mental health information, education, or would like to discuss support, please contact your primary care physician at (712) 655-2072. For those 65 and older, call Senior Life Solutions at (712) 655-8262. Or call the Manning Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 and talk to a professional.

Mental Wellness Tips for Happier Holidays

sad old man at Christmas

The holidays are not the same for everyone. 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 out shopping for the perfect gifts, but others may be 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 just the thought of it.

At MRHC, we recognize the importance of mental well-being, especially this time of year when pressures and stress can intensify. Here are some practical tips you can implement to help prioritize your mental health during the holidays.

Establish realistic expectations. It’s easy to feel pressured to create a picture-perfect holiday. Remember, it’s okay not to meet unrealistic standards. Set achievable goals and focus on enjoying meaningful moments rather than perfection.

Maintain routine and balance. With holiday gatherings and commitments, it’s important to maintain a routine as much as possible, especially when little ones are involved. Prioritize sleep, healthy meals, and regular exercise to help regulate everyone’s mood and energy levels.

Set boundaries. It’s okay to say “no” sometimes. Overcommitting to events or responsibilities can lead to burnout. Establish boundaries to protect your time and mental well-being.

Take care of yourself. Make self-care a priority and engage in activities that will help you relax and reduce stress.

“Try participating in activities that will keep your mind active such as taking a walk, reading, and staying healthy and hydrated. It is important to be kind to yourself,” shared Janet Brus, program director for Senior Life Solutions at MRHC.

Connect and communicate. The holidays can be lonely for some people. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups if you are feeling lonely or vice versa, reach out to those who may be alone during the holidays. Talk to someone about your feelings and let others know they can do the same with you.

Manage finances. Buying presents, food, decorations, and more during the holidays can lead to financial stress. Create a budget and stick to it. Consider thoughtful gestures rather than expensive gifts.

Plan ahead for post-holiday recovery. If you find yourself feeling distressed and overwhelmed with sadness as the seasons change, it may be more than just the winter blues.

“Many of us have days that we don’t feel like ourselves and sometimes the winter months can enhance those feelings,” said Brus. “Be aware of how you are feeling. If you normally get up and perform your normal daily activities and instead find yourself staying in bed longer, not getting dressed, or avoiding activities that normally bring you pleasure, you may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder.” Anticipate the post-holiday blues by scheduling activities or self-care practices to look forward to once the festivities wind down.

For parents with children who will be home during winter break, keep these tips in mind to help their mental well-being.

  • Spend quality time with children.
  • Make sure they are not isolating in their bedrooms.
  • Be present – emotionally as well as physically.
  • Ask them how they are doing and take the time to listen.

“This time during the holidays 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 Hollie Schechinger, LMSW, a designated mental health counselor at MRHC.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

Remember that it’s okay to seek help, take breaks, and prioritize self-care. If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress persist and interfere with your daily routine it is important to seek professional help. MRHC offers a variety of mental health support resources. If you or your child are struggling with depression or anxiety, contact your primary care provider for an evaluation. Counseling services are offered in Manning three days a week for individuals 12 and older. Call (712) 655-8100 to schedule an appointment.

For individuals who are 65 and older, MRHC offers group therapy through their Senior Life Solutions program for those suffering from anxiety and depression. Call (712) 655-8262 if you need support.

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.

If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance with mental health concerns, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). You can also call 988 for 24/7, free and confidential support.

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.

Senior Life Solutions Awarded 2022 Training Site and Program Finalist of the Year

Senior Life Solutions awards

MRHC is pleased to announce that the hospital’s Senior Life Solutions program has received the 2022 Training Site and Program Finalist of the Year awards. Senior Life Solutions Program Director, Janet Brus, RN; Program Therapist Amy Hull, LISW; and Office and Patient Coordinator, Cathy Dammann were surprised and presented with these awards on Thursday, March 16th. Senior Life Solutions awards

Senior Life Solutions is managed by Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC), which partners with more than 100 facilities nationwide to provide behavioral healthcare management services. Top-performing employees and Senior Life Solutions programs from around the country are recognized annually based on their excellence in demonstrating the program’s values of care, compliance, and community. Award recipients demonstrate outstanding patient care, excellent comprehension and execution of compliance regulations, and strong community engagement.

“This is truly an honor,” said Senior Life Solutions Program Director, Janet Brus. “We work hard to provide a quality service for the hospital and our patients. They are the reason we are here. We love what we do.”

Senior Life Solutions is a program designed to meet the unique needs of individuals, 65 and older, experiencing symptoms of age-related depression or anxiety, dealing with difficult life transitions, a recent health diagnosis, or the loss of a loved one. MRHC’s Senior Life Solutions program staff includes a board-certified psychiatrist, a nurse practitioner, a licensed therapist, a registered nurse, and other trained professionals dedicated to the well-being of seniors and that each patient receives the best possible care.

The Senior Life Solutions area at MRHC was recently renovated and expanded to include a dedicated group therapy meeting room with state-of-the-art audio-visual capabilities that allow for patients to join remotely. Dedicated offices are also available for the therapist and psychiatrist to meet one-on-one with patients.

Families, friends, community members, physicians, self-referrals, or other health professionals can refer people to the program. For more information, education, or to discuss support, please call 712-655-8262.

Psychiatric Medical Care

MRHC’s Senior Life Solutions program is managed by Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC). Founded in 2003, PMC is a leading behavioral healthcare management company. Focused on addressing the needs of rural and underserved communities, PMC manages inpatient behavioral health units, intensive outpatient programs, and telehealth services in more than 30 states. The company’s services provide evaluation and treatment for patients suffering from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, memory problems, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other behavioral health problems. For more information, visit www.seniorlifesolutions.com.

Tips to Help You Get a Better Night’s Sleep from MRHC

The amount of sleep you get every night affects your well-being, but the quality of your sleep makes a difference too. According to the Centers for Disease Control, inadequate sleep doesn’t just make you tired, it can increase the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, obesity, and depression.

“Not only does insufficient sleep put people at risk for chronic diseases, but it also contributes to motor vehicle crashes and machinery-related injuries,” said Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) Respiratory Therapist, Tina Gehling, RRT, RCP, BSHM, EMT.

For those struggling to sleep, Gehling offers these tips for a more restful night:

  • Stick to a sleep schedule
  • Pay attention to what you eat and drink
  • Create a restful environment
  • Limit daytime naps
  • Include physical activity in your daily routine
  • Manage stress
  • Contact your primary care provider if you continue to struggle sleeping

Daylight savings will take effect on March 12 – causing all of us to “lose” an hour of sleep. But if you are among those whose sleep continues to suffer, there may be a reason, other than the time change, to blame.

“Nearly everyone has an occasional sleepless night — but if you often have trouble sleeping, contact your doctor. Identifying and treating any underlying causes can help you get the better sleep you deserve,” said Gehling.

If you are having trouble sleeping, repeatedly waking up in the middle of the night, waking up not feeling rested or experiencing weight gain, obesity, or even snoring, it could be because of your sleeping habits. To diagnose and treat sleep disorders, MRHC recommends completing a sleep study. Testing can be completed in one night in the convenience of the patient’s own home with the ability for the patient to go to work immediately after the study.

“By doing at-home sleep studies, we are able to put patients on an autoPAP if results show they have sleep apnea, a very common disorder,” said Gehling.

Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening sleep disorder that staff routinely see. Gehling notes this is a condition in which there is a delay in breathing that can last for at least ten to 30 seconds during sleep. In severe cases, this can happen multiple times a night without the individual noticing or waking up. As a result, sleep apnea has been linked to heart attacks, heart arrhythmias, and strokes. If left untreated, sleep apnea can be deadly.

Some symptoms of sleep apnea include daytime sleepiness or fatigue, morning headaches, frequent nighttime urination, loud snoring, irritability, and more. Risk factors include family history, neck circumference, large tonsils, and age – among many others.

Sleep Apnea Questionnaire

Do you:

Snore or have been told that you snore?
Sleep during the day?
Feel drowsy when driving?
Wake up with morning headaches?
Have frequent memory or judgement problems?
Experience frequent irritability?
Noticed mood changes?
Wake up and/or make frequent trips to the bathroom during the night?
Weigh 20% or more than your ideal body weight?
Have a neck size 17 inches or greater (male) or 16 inches are greater (female)?
Have high blood pressure?
Have a decrease in sexual drive?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, consult with your primary care provider about scheduling a sleep study by calling (712) 655-2072.