Alcohol Awareness Month

girl with head in hands with a bottle of alcohol

Since 1987, April has served as Alcohol Awareness Month, a time to examine how alcohol impacts our health, our families, and our communities. This year, the national focus is centered on a powerful new message: #ProofIsInTheNumbers.

While many view drinking as a simple way to unwind, the 2026 campaign invites us to take a closer look at the data and trends. From the rise in alcohol-related emergency room visits to a better understanding of long-term health risks, the goal this month is to move beyond stigma and toward informed, healthy choices.

More Than a Hangover: Understanding the Risks
One of the most significant emerging trends in public health data is the link between alcohol consumption and an elevated risk for cancer. While many associate drinking primarily with liver health, current research highlighted by the Surgeon General shows that alcohol consumption is linked to at least seven types of cancer, including breast, colon, and liver cancer.

The “proof” also shows up in other ways:

  • Impaired driving remains a leading cause of preventable accidents.
  • Scientific data show that alcohol use in young adults can interfere with vital brain maturation, impacting decision-making later in life.
  • Health experts are increasingly warning about the “dangerous overlap” between alcohol use and the opioid crisis, as mixing substances significantly increases the risk of fatal overdose.

The Rise of “No-and-Low”
It’s not all bad news. One of the most positive recent trends is the rise in popularity of high-quality non-alcoholic (and low-alcohol) options. We are seeing a shift in social norms where “mocktails” are no longer an afterthought, but the “go-to” drink in social settings.

The market is now filled with “No-and-Low” spirits, botanical elixirs, and sophisticated tasting menus that offer the social ritual commonly connected with alcohol use, but without the health trade-offs and risks. Choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle, or even just cutting back, has never been more accessible or socially supported.

The More Sober Generation
Another positive trend is that fewer young adults (age 35 and below) are drinking, and those who do consume alcohol tend to be drinking less. A 2023 survey from Gallup found that the number of adults under age 35 who report consuming alcohol has dropped ten percentage points over two decades, falling to 62% in 2021-2023 from 72% in 2001-2003. It’s becoming clear that today’s younger generations are more likely than older generations to see alcohol as a risk to their health.

How You Can Participate

  • Take an “Alcohol-Free Weekend”: Test the waters by going 72 hours without a drink. Notice how your sleep, energy, and mood change.
  • Educate Yourself: Look for the #ProofIsInTheNumbers hashtag online to find the latest toolkits on how alcohol policy and personal choices impact your local community.
  • Start the Conversation: Talk to your kids or younger family members. Data shows that parental disappointment is still the #1 reason youth choose not to drink; your voice matters.

Finding Support
If you or a loved one is finding it difficult to manage alcohol use, remember that Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a treatable medical condition, not a moral failing. There are more resources available now than ever before, from telehealth counseling to community-based recovery groups.

Need Help?

SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential, free, 24/7 information and treatment referral.

Manning Recovery Center: Consult with one of the experts in substance use disorder treatment by calling 1-712-655-2300 or learn more at manningrecoverycenter.com.

MRHC Hidden in Plain Sight Camper

The Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) Recovery Center is bringing awareness to substance use prevention through its “Hidden in Plain Sight” camper, a hands-on educational experience designed for parents, teachers, and adults who work with youth.

The interactive exhibit allows participants to step inside a simulated teen bedroom and identify signs of possible substance use and risky behaviors. While some warning signs may be obvious, many are hidden in plain sight.

“The staff at IKM-Manning Schools truly valued the hands-on experience with the Hidden in Plain Sight camper during our professional development,” said Rachel Merkel, School Counselor. “We learned so much about current trends and were surprised to see how everyday objects, many commonly found in schools and homes, can be used to hide drugs and alcohol. I highly recommend that anyone who works with or cares for children take advantage of the incredible educational opportunity MRHC provides through this program.”

Research shows many individuals report first experimenting with substances before the age of 13, making early awareness and prevention critical. The Hidden in Plain Sight camper aims to equip adults with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize warning signs and start meaningful conversations with teens.

Participants, ages 21 and older, enter the camper in small groups of three to four people. They are given five minutes to locate 43 hidden items that may indicate substance use or risky behaviors. After the timed experience, facilitators review the items participants may have missed and provide education on current drug trends, slang terms, where items can be purchased, and behavioral signs to watch for.

“The Hidden in Plain Sight camper gives adults a powerful, eye-opening experience,” Taya Vonnahme, Director of MRHC Recovery Center. “When adults know what to look for and how to start the conversation, they can intervene earlier and support teens in healthier choices.”

The program is designed to educate parents, educators, and community members on how to recognize behaviors that may indicate drug or alcohol use and addiction. By increasing awareness and understanding, the MRHC Recovery Center hopes to strengthen prevention efforts throughout the area.

Schools, community groups, and organizations can reserve the Hidden in Plain Sight camper for educational events and trainings. To schedule the camper, please contact Neeka Jacobsen at neeka.jacobsen@mrhcia.com.

To learn more about the MRHC Recovery Center and its services, visit https://www.mrhcia.com/recovery-center/.

MRHC Recovery Center Awarded Opioid Settlement Funding

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) announced that the Recovery Center has been awarded more than $500,000 in Iowa opioid settlement funding through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Misuse Prevention and Treatment program. The award will support a regional initiative to expand evidence-based opioid use disorder (OUD) services in Carroll, Crawford, Shelby, and Audubon counties.

“This investment allows us to reduce barriers that often prevent rural residents from getting timely, effective care,” said Shannon Black, CEO of MRHC. “It strengthens our ability to serve patients close to home while responding to a growing regional need.”

MRHC’s Recovery Center will use the funding to strengthen the region’s continuum of care, expanding access to intake and outpatient services, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and chronic pain management. The initiative will increase access for Crawford County residents through a partnership with Crawford County Public Health in Denison, including on-site intake assessments and transportation to Manning for outpatients and MAT services.

The initiative includes establishing an integrated MAT clinic at MRHC and strengthening its multimodal chronic pain management program to reduce opioid reliance and improve outcomes. The project also supports specialized staff training, program leadership, workforce recruitment, and retention efforts to ensure long-term sustainability.

“MAT is one of the most effective tools we have for treating opioid use disorder,” said CNO, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “This funding allows us to integrate treatment, education and care coordination so more people can access services and stay engaged in prevention and recovery.”

A key focus of the project is restoring local access for Crawford County residents following the closure of Denison’s former outpatient provider. MRHC will partner with Crawford County Public Health to offer onsite intake assessments in Denison and coordinated transportation to treatment services in Manning.

MRHC’s Recovery Center is uniquely positioned to serve medically-complex patients, including high-risk pregnant women, through access to 24/7 nursing, diagnostics, emergency services and coordinated obstetric care through a partnership with Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, allowing patients to remain in treatment during medically-vulnerable stages of pregnancy.

“This support allows us to expand care while preserving the individualized, hospital-based approach that has defined the Recovery Center for more than four decades,” said Taya Vonnahme, Recovery Center Director. “By strengthening access, staffing and coordination, we can better meet patients where they are and support lasting recovery.”

MRHC will continue working with regional partners, including county leaders, hospitals, EMS, law enforcement, schools, and community organizations, to reduce stigma, strengthen referral pathways and improve access to care.

In addition to the opioid settlement funding, MRHC has applied for a Centers of Excellence designation through the state’s Healthy Hometown initiative under the Hometown Connections strategy. The designation would support rural health system partnerships and workforce recruitment and retention efforts, with award announcements expected in mid-January and contracts beginning in mid-February.

Recovering After the Holidays: Winter Self-Care Tips

After the holidays, it’s common to feel drained as routines shift and winter brings shorter days and increased isolation. This time of year makes it especially important to prioritize both mental and physical recovery. To help support individuals during this time, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) shares practical tips to aid in post-holiday recovery and winter self-care.

“The weather during this time of year does not help with mental health conditions. The days are shorter; it appears gloomier and colder outside,” said MRHC Mental Health Counselor Hollie Schechinger, LISW. “This causes people to spend more time isolated indoors and not communicate as much with their supports.”

Post-Holiday Recovery

The holiday season often comes with disrupted routines, social fatigue, and sleep changes. Along with heightened emotions, these factors can all take a toll on our mental health. MRHC encourages individuals to allow time for the mind and body to reset. Simple strategies include:

  • Soft Landing Week: Fewer appointments, slower mornings, and smaller errands.
  • Re-Establish Sleep Gradually: Adjust bedtime or wake time by 15–20 minutes.
  • Let Your Body Lead: Use helpful cues such as “pacing myself today” or “this is a transition period”.
  • Micro-Resting: Incorporate brief restorative breaks with a warm drink, gentle stretching, or quiet music.
  • Hydrate & Nourish: Support overall well-being with balanced meals and staying hydrated.
  • Reestablish a Routine: Choose a daily anchor like a morning coffee, a short walk, or a consistent mealtime.

Winter Self-Care

Practicing self-care during the winter months is essential, as it supports physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual well-being during a season marked by shorter days, colder temperatures, and post-holiday fatigue. Winter can bring low energy, mobility limitations, transportation barriers, increased isolation, pain or stiffness, emotional decline, and disrupted routines.

“During the winter months, hibernation looks like intentional rest that helps the mind and body heal, while isolation looks like withdrawing from the world because things feel too hard,” said Senior Life Solutions Therapist Maribeth Christensen, BSW, MA, MSW, LMSW, CADC. “If stepping back gives you comfort, that’s healthy, but if it deepens the feelings of sadness or hopelessness, it may be an indication to seek support.”

These factors can make self-care feel difficult or even “selfish,” but it is not indulgence; it is necessary maintenance. MRHC’s practical, simple strategies can help make winter care more manageable:

  • Two-minute rule: Complete quick tasks such as stretching, opening curtains, or drinking water.
  • Comfort basket: Include items like cozy socks, a hot pack, lotion, tea, a puzzle, or a book for easy access.
  • Weather backup plan: When leaving home isn’t possible, choose alternatives such as a phone call or a short video chat to stay connected with friends and family.
  • Warmth rituals: A warm drink, a heated blanket, a warm bath, lotion on your hands, or sitting in a sunny window can promote relaxation.
  • Daily meaning check: Note one moment of comfort, gratitude, or connection each day.
  • Stay connected: Schedule weekly check-ins or attend community events when the weather allows.
  • Lower the bar: Keep expectations realistic. Small, consistent acts of care are most effective.

These small, steady practices help the body and mind stay regulated, grounded, and supported through the winter season. If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress persist and interfere with your daily routine, it is important to seek professional help. If you or a loved one is struggling, MRHC provides mental health services to support individuals of all ages:

Counseling Services in person or virtually for individuals 12 and older. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Play Therapy to support children five and older. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Senior Life Solutions for individuals 65+ struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions. Call (712) 655-8262.

The Recovery Center provides residential and outpatient treatment. Call (712) 655-2300 for help.

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 call or text 988 for confidential, 24/7 support.

Recovery Center Works to Save Lives and Break Stigma on Overdose Awareness Day

overdose

Every overdose is more than a statistic. It’s a life, a family, and a community forever changed. As overdose rates continue to rise across the U.S., Manning Regional Healthcare Center’s Recovery Center is marking Overdose Awareness Day with an urgent reminder: education, prevention, and timely intervention save lives. By equipping community members with tools like Narcan training, proper medication disposal, and local recovery resources, the Recovery Center is working to reduce stigma, empower individuals, and create a safer, healthier future for all.

Overdoses can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance, which is why awareness and preparedness are critical. Recognizing the symptoms of an overdose can make the difference between life and death. Common signs may include:

  • Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
  • Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Pale, blue, or cold skin
  • Slow heartbeat or low blood pressure

If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. While waiting for emergency responders, administer Narcan (naloxone) if it is available. Narcan is a safe and effective medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

The Recovery Center at MRHC offers free Narcan training and kits to community members. Staff members are available to travel locally and provide training to equip individuals with the knowledge and confidence to act quickly during an overdose emergency.

“Narcan education empowers communities by reducing stigma, increasing awareness of overdose symptoms, and promoting timely intervention,” says Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “It supports a harm reduction approach that prioritizes the preservation of life and opens the door for individuals to seek long-term treatment and recovery. Training in Narcan use should be widely accessible, culturally competent, and integrated into broader efforts to combat substance use disorder.” 

Overdose Prevention

Preventing overdoses also includes limiting access to unnecessary or expired medications. Community members can properly dispose of medications at local drop boxes at the MRHC Emergency Room entrance and the Manning Pharmacy. Proper disposal keeps medications out of the wrong hands and helps reduce risks of misuse.

On Overdose Awareness Day and every day, the Recovery Center is here to support individuals and families impacted by addiction. A variety of service levels are available depending on individual situations, including residential or outpatient treatment, detoxification, and evaluations. If you or a loved one is struggling, please call the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 to learn more about treatment options and resources available.

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.

 

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

Gaming May Lead to Dangerous, Addictive Behaviors

gaming

Struggling to keep the video game controller out of your kids’ hands? While playing video games may seem like a harmless activity for adolescents, gaming may be more dangerous than parents think.

“As adults, many aspects of our bodies such as our eyes and brain are developed. Our children are still developing, so we are seeing how increased screen time can affect development and cause other long-term effects,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC.

Gaming addiction is a diagnosable medical condition by the World Health Organization. When video game play takes up significantly more time than the other activities in your life, it is a sign that there is a problem. Gaming addiction has become increasingly more prevalent as access to devices and a variety of games increases daily, and it does not discriminate based on age or status.

Whether it’s you or a loved one, signs that there is a gaming addiction include becoming distressed or on edge when asked to stop, inability to stop thinking about gaming while not playing, and various other signs that mimic substance abuse withdrawal.

As with any medical condition, there are health risks that can amplify and worsen over time if not addressed. Some of these risks that can result from video game addiction are:

  • Lack of social engagement
  • Problems concentrating on tasks
  • Poor hygiene
  • Lack of adequate sleep
  • Failure to complete school/family/work-related obligations
  • Loss of appetite
  • Reduced physical exercise
  • Anxiety/irritability/anger/agitation.

If you are seeing any of these symptoms in yourself, some things you can do to redirect your addiction would be to set firm boundaries for yourself, find other hobbies you enjoy to occupy your time, avoid people or situations that encourage gaming, join a support group, focus on your physical health, and get professional mental health support.

“Gaming addiction is something we are all continuing to learn about and figure out how to teach balance in a child’s life. This starts with our own examples in the home and around our children. We are working hard to continue to educate ourselves and promote healthy habits with children and adults in the community,” Vonnahme shared.

Could Gaming Lead to Gambling Issues?

One major aspect of gaming addiction is gambling. Young people are getting exposed to gambling at earlier ages than ever before – not only in traditional forms like casinos, lotteries, or sports betting, but in new, less obvious forms like gaming, loot boxes, and fantasy sports. Research shows that children introduced to “harmless betting” by age 12 are four times more likely to engage in problem gambling later. A teen’s brain isn’t wired yet to weigh risks and make healthy choices. So that “win” on an online game today can lead to the negative side effects of real-life gambling tomorrow.

Gambling disorders can begin in children as young as ten years old, and problem gambling impacts about 4-8% of youths as compared to only 1% of adults. Additionally, gambling can serve as a gateway addiction as teens who gamble are more likely to engage in the use of illegal drugs. Risk factors leading to adolescent gambling can include, but are not limited to suicidal ideation or behaviors, a close family member with a gambling problem, major negative life events or traumatic experiences, excessive video game use, disconnection from family, poor coping skills, and theft/fighting/violence.

Early warning signs that your adolescent may be addicted to gambling could be any of the following:

  • Showing less interest in activities
  • Changes in their attitude with school (missed classes, incomplete assignments, lower grades)
  • Behavior changes (more aggression, defensiveness, signs of anxiety/depression)
  • Noticeable interest in competition/winning/being right
  • Missing cash or finding stashed cash your child is keeping
  • Increased time spent online – especially in secret

All these early warning signs, if left undetected and treated, can all become problematic when they interfere with school/work/other activities, cause problems with family and friends, lead to isolation and loneliness, contribute to alcohol/drug misuse, bring safety concerns, or create financial stressors.

As with any addictive behavior, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks of your child being influenced. Talk to your child about the risks of gambling, model responsible behavior related to gambling, monitor your adolescent’s computer and cellphone usage, limit their access to money – including credit cards, get help for mental health and substance use concerns, and strengthen important relationships in your child’s life (i.e.: parent-child, extended family, friends, and other key adults).

If you need help or guidance, or are looking for support and resources, we encourage you to reach out to your family care provider or contact the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

 

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.

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.