Practical tips, local resources, and expert guidance for Kentucky parents and students navigating the pressures of school.

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School can be exciting, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming. Academic stress doesn’t just come from homework, tests, or standardized assessments like K-PREP and the ACT. Today’s students also face societal pressures, such as expectations to excel in extracurriculars, sports, and social circles, as well as the constant influence of social media, where comparisons to peers can increase anxiety and self-doubt. Nearly 30% of high school students report persistent stress or feelings of hopelessness, showing that managing these pressures is crucial for both mental health and academic success.

By understanding the multiple factors that contribute to stress (school, society, and social media), parents, educators, and community partners can better support students in achieving balance and resilience.

Why does academic stress matter?

It’s not just about feeling overwhelmed; academic stress can have very real effects on mental and physical health. Students experiencing high levels of stress may develop anxiety or depression, struggle with sleep, experience headaches or stomachaches, or see a drop in academic performance. Societal pressures and social media can amplify these effects, as students may feel they need to keep up with their peers, maintain a perfect image online, or constantly perform at a high level.

Over time, chronic stress can impact social interactions, self-esteem, and overall well-being. By recognizing stress early, parents and educators can help take steps to enable the student to cope and manage their workload more effectively.

What are the signs my student is stressed?

It’s important to spot the warning signs. Common indicators include

• Mood Changes – irritability, sadness, withdrawal from friends or family
• Physical Symptoms – headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, weight loss
• Behavioral Changes – procrastination, declining grades, avoiding school work, lashing out
• Social Changes – increased use of social media or withdrawal from offline social interactions

How can a student manage stress?

Helping students manage stress involves practical strategies they can use daily

• Time Management – Encourage the use of planners or apps to schedule study time, homework, and breaks. Breaking large projects into smaller tasks can make assignments feel more manageable.
• Healthy Habits – Regular sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can reduce stress and improve focus. Limit excessive screen time, especially on social media, which can heighten feelings of comparison or inadequacy.
• Stress Reduction Techniques – Mindful exercises, deep breathing, journaling, or short walks can help students calm their minds and regain focus.
• Balance Activities – encourage hobbies, social time, and downtime alongside academics to create a healthy balance.

How can parents help?

Parents play a crucial role in helping students navigate academic stress:

• Maintain open communication about school workloads, societal expectations, and emotional well-being.
• Focus on effort and growth, rather than just grades or online appearances, to reduce performance pressure.
• Monitor for chronic stress or anxiety and respond by providing support or seeking professional guidance.
• Have discussions with your kids about social media and help them create and maintain a healthy relationship and balance with it.

School & Community Resources in Kentucky

Kentucky students have access to a variety of school and community resources:

• Guidance counselors and tutoring programs can help students manage academic challenges.
• After-school programs and youth support groups offer additional learning opportunities and stress relief, such as the Boys and Girls Club of America.
• Case Management services can coordinate mental health support, therapy referrals, and access to other community resources, ensuring students get the help they need.

When should I seek professional help for students?

Some students need additional support beyond home or school resources. Signs that professional help may be needed include persistent anxiety, depression, or a sudden drop in grades. Mental health professionals, in coordination with case management services, can help students navigate stress, develop coping strategies, and access resources that improve well-being.

If your student is struggling with academic stress, the team at Intrust Healthcare can coordinate counseling, case management, and local resources to support their mental health and overall success. Contact us today at 606-676-0638 to learn more about how our experienced counselors and case managers can help your family thrive.

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If you haven’t seen the new movie Inside Out 2, check it out when you can! It was a great reminder of our human emotions. The movie introduced some new characters like “anxiety”, “fear” and “embarrassment “, to name a few.  The characters are portrayed by different emotions we all experience. Every emotion serves a purpose giving homage and honor to them all, from joy to sadness, to envy, and many more.

Many things in life can make us feel “Inside Out.” There was even a quote in the movie talking about making mistakes, that you’ve made them before and you’ll probably make them again, shining a light on being an imperfect human, but moving on from mistakes.

The movie was a great reminder we are human. Sometimes we may forget that or put pressure on ourselves to be perfect. If you find yourself having some emotional challenges, give yourself grace, and know that you are not alone.

Whether or not your friends and family do or do not understand your situation or emotions, sometimes it can be helpful to have an unbiased professional who can shed light, give guidance, teach coping skills and more to assist in helping you.

Emotions are one of the most important subjects in psychotherapy. Emotion processing is an important factor for successful psychotherapy. Clients tend to suffer from maladaptive emotions, which contribute to states of confusion, rumination, and stagnation. On its own, processing emotional experiences can induce adaptive and healthy desires; however, using compassionate self exercises helps the client to integrate complicated emotions and to approach their own values in a more direct way.’ (Asano).

If you are considering counseling services to help navigate any of these emotions, we have a team of highly skilled counselors and case managers who can get you on the path to mental wellness and emotional stability. We serve clients all throughout the state and would love to connect and support with any goals or personal needs. Call us at 606-676-0638 to set up an appointment today, there is currently no waiting list!

Reference:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6339704/

https://movies.disney.com/inside-out-2

Leticia Reynolds
Case Manager

Leticia Reynolds, BS is a TCM with Intrust Healthcare. She has a Bachelor’s from the University of Kentucky in Community and Leadership Development, with an emphasis in agricultural communications and journalism. She has a special interest in maternal mental health, community support for families, and support groups. She enjoys spending time with her family, going on adventures,  exploring nature, and learning/reading. 

Photo by Kouji Tsuru on Unsplash

Have you heard the saying, “My brain has too many tabs open”? In our modern world, we can enjoy the benefits of technology at our fingertips, however, life happens and the operating systems in our minds could use some support sometimes. Our clinicians would be happy to assist you in sorting out some of those tabs.

Spring is here, and any time of the year is a great stepping stone to making your “one day”, day one of starting to focus on yourself! Do you need help with budgeting, with rising grocery costs? Perhaps, you are juggling a lot personally, and do not have the time to think about looking for a specialist you need. These are just a few things not only therapy can help you with personally, but when you receive case management services, you receive extra support for your needs by connecting you to education and resources. 

Intrust has over 100 Targeted Case Managers and therapists throughout the state that can work with you in person and/or telehealth. Being connected to resources in your area, and building upon your independence and confidence with your support teams are all ways to support your mental health. 

Not only do case managers work with your therapist to ensure you are making progress towards your needs and goals, we coordinate care with other members of your care team to ensure you are receiving continuity of care. Physical and mental health go hand-in-hand, and we want to educate and support our clients to learn how to advocate for themselves to be set up for success. 

Sometimes, it just takes a village and it can be hard asking for extra help. Here at Inrust, we care about each of our clients, and we care about your individuality and your specific needs. Health and wellness is like a  travel journey, and sometimes we just need a little guide at times to help us reach our destination. 

“TCM services has allowed me to have support when I have felt lost”, current female client who wanted to share her experience. 

Call today us today at 606-676-0638 and our trained staff will assist you in getting an appointment. There is NO waiting list. We offer Counseling and Case Management services all across Kentucky and want to help you! Call today and Let’s Grow Together! 

Leticia Reynolds
Case Manager

Leticia Reynolds, BS is a TCM with Intrust Healthcare. She has a Bachelor’s from the University of Kentucky in Community and Leadership Development, with an emphasis in agricultural communications and journalism. She has a special interest in maternal mental health, community support for families, and support groups. She enjoys spending time with her family, going on adventures,  exploring nature, and learning/reading. 

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Last year on the blog, Intrust remembered Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness, and this
year we still honor that awareness in full, but would also like to spotlight another topic October
holds, and that is, ADHD Awareness Month.

Light being shed on awareness topics can be educational when important information and
education can be brought to our attention. This can allow us to be educated and make decisions
on things that can help you or a family member. Seeking help doesn’t have to be scary; you have
to learn to crawl, before you can walk, and walk before you can run. Your journey is unique to
you! Here at Intrust Healthcare, we have dozens of highly trained licensed therapists, and
certified targeted case managers that will assist you in your journey right where you are.

What Is ADHD?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is described as the most common
neurobehavioral condition of childhood. We raise the concern that ADHD is not a disease per se
but rather a group of symptoms representing a final common behavioral pathway for a gamut of
emotional, psychological, and/or learning problems. Increasing numbers of children, especially
boys, are diagnosed with ADHD and treated with stimulant medications according to a
simplified approach. Methodical review of the literature, however, raised concerning issues.
"Core" ADHD symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity are not unique to
ADHD. Rates of "comorbid" psychiatric and learning problems, including depression and

anxiety, range from 12 to 60%, with significant symptom overlap with ADHD, difficulties in
diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment methods that do not include stimulant medications.
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16417850/)

ADHD awareness month is in the news and spoken of through national organizations. There are
many resources out there in addition to your treatment team that provide additional support such
as: parent groups, personal online peer support groups, podcast, webinars, local meetups,
national conferences and much more.

Below you will find three wonderful websites that have tons of information and resource called
“TADD talks”. If you have heard of TED talks, this is similar and all ADD/ADHD focused. On
the website, today (10/31) features, Aron Croft M.S: “I hate hard work, so here’s how I
complete my top tasks in 2 hours a day.” The neat thing about these is that they are attention
focused, and not too lengthy. Here is the website to access the talks by providing an email.

Thank you for Subscribing to TADD Talks!

Please let us know how we can help or if you have any questions, call our office to inquire about
referrals.

ADHD Resources for individuals, parents, children:

Understanding ADHD

(Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder )

https://www.acamh.org/topic/adhd/
( The Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health)

ADDA Virtual Programs

(Attention Deficit Disorder Association)

Leticia Reynolds
Case Manager

Leticia Reynolds, BS is a TCM with Intrust Healthcare. She has a Bachelor’s from the University of Kentucky in Community and Leadership Development, with an emphasis in agricultural communications and journalism. She has a special interest in maternal mental health, community support for families, and support groups. She enjoys spending time with her family, going on adventures,  exploring nature, and learning/reading. 

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There is no doubt the rising cost in America is having an impact on each one of us. A few simple purchases at the grocery store will add up quickly. When I was little, my grandmother always told me as children would balk at taking a penny over a shiny quarter, ” Pennies turn into nickels; nickels turn into dimes; dimes turn into quarters, and quarters turn into dollars! “

Let’s take today to kick off July to look at 10 ways to save money for ourselves, and ways to help our fellow neighbors.

1. Visit local farmers’ markets as a consumer to get fresh local produce! If you have your own garden and want to prepare food to store in the winter, canning would be great for stocking your home shelves. Check out your local extension office for many free resources about canning and gardening. However, if you don’t want to go through the labor of love of canning, sell your extra produce at the Farmers Market. Usually, you have to apply and take care of the basics of selling with a small fee, or sometimes it may be free depending on your location. If you are selling food, you will have to have a food permit. Contact your local health department for information.

2. Join a “Buy Nothing Group” on Facebook. There are usually groups per region for people who have started one. Their mission is to buy less and share more; it makes us all richer and cleaner planet. https://buynothingproject.org/

3. Price check the sale ads from all grocery stores. If you are looking to save money looking at the sale ads and combing the paper or digital coupons is a great way to price match. Also, don’t forget to ask for rain checks when your item on sale has run out. This will ensure you get the item when it is restocked at the sale price. Some places still do this! Look for manufacturer’s coupons and check with each store to see if they can be used (or stacked) with store coupons, amplifying your savings. Don’t forget to check if the store has an app with digital coupons and/or rewards programs.

4. Have an old fashion yard sale to move some items someone else may be looking for. Possibly take your funds to pay off a bill, buy items you need in bulk, save for gas, save for a vacation, or better yet invest! Get creative and do those D-I-Y projects where you can on your own; Try to support locals where you can if you can’t do a D-I-Y project as you never know how they may work with you on prices!

5. Cancel apps and memberships so that you can evaluate if you can pause them to save money to put towards other expenses. You can also change your mobile plan’s data or shop around for who has the best plans for you and your family. Here are some apps to explore to help with this: BillShark, BillFixer, and TrueBill.

6. Dining out less and meal planning. I know!–It is one you have to weigh! Both eating out and home preparation can be expensive. Whichever option you choose, look for coupons or email signups on restaurant deals. If you know your restaurants in town, look into having a side gig as a DoorDash driver, and make some extra cash!

7. Energy prices are also rising, and making small changes could make a difference on your next bill. Simple things like changing your air filters, keeping doors closed, and checking for any cracks or leaks can also help. There are also weatherization assistance programs available for low-income homeowners.

8. Ask for a discount, No matter the retailer, be bold and ask politely if there are any special savings going on. You will never know if you don’t ask. You may be surprised at what is out there! Veterans, officers, teachers, and medical professionals usually get several discounts as well, ask away!

9. Donate to local food banks; helping each other is always needed in hard times and in general. If you are able to start a blessing box with non-perishables in your neighborhood that would also be helpful.

10. Track and prioritize your expenses. Ask your support system about ways you can put your resources together, save money, or additional ideas to add to your own plan.

Hard times financially can fall on many and we are just a phone call away to assist you with resources through Targeted Case Management Services and therapy services with our highly trained clinicians. A Case Manager’s job is to connect and assist you with local resources. Our team is highly knowledgeable of the resources available and are here to help. Give us a call today at 606-676-0638 to get services started. There is NO waiting list! Have an appointment scheduled within 2 business days of your call. Services are available in person and via telehealth so you can choose the level of service you are comfortable with. Intrust has been serving communities all across Kentucky since 1999. Call today and #LetsGrowTogether!

Leticia Reynolds
Case Manager

Leticia Reynolds, BS is a TCM with Intrust Healthcare. She has a Bachelor’s from the University of Kentucky in Community and Leadership Development, with an emphasis in agricultural communications and journalism. She has a special interest in maternal mental health, community support for families, and support groups. She enjoys spending time with her family, going on adventures, exploring nature, and learning/reading.

Photo by MK Hamilton on Unsplash

What is the difference between a Hypnotist and Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist?

When you hear the word hypnosis majority of people think? Acting like a chicken on a stage, in front of a lot of people; right? Which, is exactly what a Hypnotist might do. Although, did you know that hypnosis has significant therapeutic value when conducted under a certified clinical hypnotherapist.

There are several differences between a hypnotist and a certified clinical hypnotherapist. A hypnotist utilizes short-term hypnosis for entertainment purposes and intentionally attempting to humiliate someone to obtain laughs. Hypnotist also may or may not have training in hypnosis; some hypnotists are self-proclaimed, have no training other than self-taught, and trial and error efforts.

A certified clinical hypnotherapist is the complete opposite.  A certified clinical hypnotherapist utilizes hypnosis for long-term changes towards personal change and development. Clinical Hypnotherapist have received training and engaged in yearly continued education to provide the best ecology possible for client’s personal development and desired outcomes.  Clinical Hypnotherapist are able to assist with reducing symptoms such as: smoking, weight management, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and so much more. 

Below is a brief diagram that outlines some of the differences between a Hypnotist and a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist:

Even though hypnosis is utilized in many different forms, with the first being entertainment purposes that a vast majority of society think of when they first hear the word “Hypnosis.” Although, hypnosis has been utilized for centuries for therapeutic purposes, illustrating multiple benefits and positive outcome. 

Interested in Hypnotherapy from a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist? Give us a call today at 606-676-0638, or visit us at intrust-healthcare.com/hypnotherapy for more information and to sign up for a free assessment.

Written by Jesse Miller, M.Ed, LPCC, BIP, CAMS-II, CCHt, NLPP, TTP, EFT

Photo by Joel Holland on Unsplash

By: Leticia Reynolds, TCM

Are you having a hard time feeling motivated? Do you feel a change in your mental and physical well-being from daylight savings time from the fall season until the spring season? You may be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.

Although the sounds and smells of rainfall can be relaxing, the lack of sunshine can affect your mood. In the state of Kentucky, our commonwealth is no stranger to a variety of temperatures throughout the year. In nearly three months, we have had devastating tornadoes, heavy snowfall, and fridge temperatures from an ice storm. 

As sunlight decreases during the short dark days of winter, many individuals struggle with SAD. As the acronym so aptly illustrates, those afflicted experience feelings of sadness and loss of energy, especially during December, January, and February, around the winter solstice, when the days are shortest. Existing research has focused on the key treatment approaches of antidepressant medication, light therapy, Vitamin D, and counseling ( Melrose).

If you are just now connecting the dots, take action and prepare for next winter to help mitigate “winter blues”.  There are a variety of light boxes ranging in price and potency. Commercial stores such as Walmart carry a basic lightbox located in the pharmacy section for about $30. Also, larger companies that specialize in larger light boxes, such as Sperti who has clinical research behind their product’s effectiveness, for around $500. 

https://www.walmart.com/ip/AGPTEK-2-in-1-Light-Therapy-Lamp-for-SAD-with-6-Sleep-Aid-Sounds-3-Light-Modes-for-Seasonal-Disorder-Pressure-Release-Winter-Autumn/279386102?athbdg=L1700

https://www.sperti.com/product/sperti-vitamin-d-light-box/

You can also download an app on your phone called D-minder that will give you a specific assessment based on your skin type, and geographical location to assess how much Vitamin D you will acquire outside with the least-risk-of burning.  As always discuss any changes with your healthcare provider, or therapist as you are implementing strategies to assist with seasonal affective disorder. 

Sunlight plays a critical role in decreased serotonin activity, increased melatonin production, disrupted circadian rhythms, and low levels of Vitamin D associated with symptoms of SAD. Antidepressant medications offer some relief. However, light therapy, Vitamin D supplements, and counseling approaches are also emerging as effective treatments ( Melrose).

A starting point to help your circadian rhythm would be waking up with the sunrise and being by a window or going outside for a few minutes to expose yourself to natural sunlight.  When the sun sets, be mindful to wind down the use of electronics, and/or use blue-blocking glasses.  Our highly trained therapist can assess you for SAD and start a treatment plan for you in conjunction with your healthcare provider etc. 

Studies have shown that getting outside, especially as spring is approaching can have many positive benefits on your mood, relationships, workplace, and wellbeing. One explanation for the link between natural elements exposure and improved mental health involves mechanisms that reduce mental fatigue.  Lastly, consuming a well-balanced diet and foods rich in Vitamin D can also be an asset to SAD. 

Spring is right around the corner, the perfect time to get out there and start the journey towards better mental wellness.  Start by trying some of the tips listed in this blog and then let us know about it. Need help? We are here. There is no waiting list. Have Counseling and Case Management services started within days of your initial call. Give us a call at 606-676-0638 and #LetsGrowTogether.

Leticia Reynolds
Case Manage

Leticia Reynolds, BS is a TCM with Intrust Healthcare. She has a Bachelor’s from the University of Kentucky in Community and Leadership Development, with an emphasis in agricultural communications and journalism. She has a special interest in maternal mental health, community support for families, and support groups. She enjoys spending time with her family, going on adventures,  exploring nature, and learning/reading. 

Sources:

Seasonal Affective Disorder: An Overview of Assessment and Treatment Approaches

Sherri Melrose

Depress Res Treat. 2015; 2015: 178564. Published online 2015 Nov 25. doi: 10.1155/2015/178564

Why We Need More Nature at Work: Effects of Natural Elements and Sunlight on Employee Mental Health and Work Attitudes

Mihyang An, Stephen M. Colarelli, Kimberly O’Brien, Melanie E. Boyajian

PLoS One. 2016; 11(5): e0155614. Published online 2016 May 23. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155614

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6493913/

On January 18, 2022, the Kentucky House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 44 RS 22, which amends, “A local school district’s student attendance policy shall include provisions for 11 excused absences due to a student’s mental or behavioral health status.” State Representative (D) Lisa Willner introduced the bill to the floor for consideration. It came to her attention after numerous students spoke in favor of amending the bill to add the wording to include days be excused on behalf of the student body and the ongoing mental health issues brought on by the pandemic. 

From Lisa Willner’s Official Facebook Page:

“HB44, our bill to allow excused absences for student mental health days, passed unanimously out of the House Education Committee today! 

The bill is bipartisan, rural and urban in its origins, and student led. 

Thanks to Rep. Bobby McCool for partnering with me on the bill, and to Kameron Julian of DuPont Manual HS, Cole Butcher of Johnson Co HS, and Amira Bowman of Marion Co HS for their thorough research and compelling testimony. 

Out of committee, now on to the House chamber!” 

For Kentucky, this comes at a time when counseling agencies are already feeling the weight of the overwhelming need for clinical interventions. Agencies across central Kentucky have worked diligently over the past two years to ensure that student needs were met, but the ongoing push from state and local governments to keep schools open come at a price that the students end up paying. While clinicians push to try and make services readily available to the public, the school system continues to lose teachers and other staff to the pandemic, which puts strain on the learning experience for the students. Once that environment is impacted students seek out the help of clinicians, and with this new bill the hope is that while working with the families the children can focus on their mental health without taking a hit on their attendance at school.

The Fayette Country school district also implemented that going forward the school district will no longer use snow days. Instead, the district is enforcing the use of Non-Traditional Instruction days (NTI) over the entire district to avoid using any extra days during the calendar school year that could affect when the students would be released for the summer break. This move is also intended to supplement learning should the district need to close the district due to the rising pandemic numbers. Other counties around Fayette, such as Woodford County, have already felt the sting of forced closing due to lack of staff to oversee the school days. The ability for the school district to recognize that children are at-risk to miss more days due to illness and are working to circumvent that without putting stress on the child or their family says that more attention is being paid to the mental health and abilities of the students and staff.

HB 44 serves as a needed reminder that while we are trying to move forward in a pandemic that seems never-ending, the mental health implications for all involved should be of a greater importance. There is an acceptance in allowing excused absences for mental health issues and for mental health interventions. Both children and caregivers can breathe a sigh of relief with the knowledge that they will not be looked down on or held to an unattainable expectation in regard to their overall health and well-being. By including mental health in the conversation, it gives clinicians a seat at the table to advocate on behalf of their clients and more versatility in options for intervention and treatment. An excused absence means families can now have the freedom to make appointments as needed with their clinicians, which means a larger window of time available, and more opportunity for scheduling. A better use of time can mean a better outcome, and hopefully the Kentucky House of Representatives can see the value of HB 44 when the time comes for the bill to be passed.  

Links for reference: 

https://www.lex18.com/news/covering-kentucky/ky-house-passes-bill-requiring-schools-to-allow-excused-absences-for-student-mental-health-days

https://www.fcps.net/nti

If you or your children are having a hard time adjusting to the changes over the past 2 years, please reach out to us. We can help. There is no waiting list. Call us at 606-676-0638 and have an appointment scheduled within 2 business days. We accept all Medicaid MCO’s, VACCN through Optum, TRIcare East, self-pay and some private insurances.

Christina Terrano, LPCA, CCTP, CTMH graduated Cum Laude with a BA in Psychology & Sociology specializing in Clinical Counseling from Saint Leo University, as well as a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of the Cumberlands. Christina is certified as a Trauma professional and as a Telemental health provider, as well as psychological first aid in crisis response. Christina currently offers counseling services through Intrust Healthcare Counseling Services out of Lexington, KY.

Photo by Claire Kelly on Unsplash

Beyond Awareness Month

Every month in a calendar year, at some point in time, there was an “awareness” brought to the attention of the media and publications creating ‘events/days/month’ for cause, a condition, an organization etc.  I have honestly been more aware of issues that I have not heard about by discovering new causes each month. This makes me more informed and self-aware which is usually positive and I appreciate learning more. However, some awareness months just do not automatically stop for the person during that month that light was shed onto the cause. 

How do we move beyond awareness month to support these individuals?  Many people carry these illnesses daily, or remembrances in their hearts every day. Last month, Pregnancy and Infant-loss Awareness Month. I never thought I would be writing about my own experience, and it honestly took a few tries to get the words to flow. While I don’t have to recount every detail of my experience to you, it is the importance of bringing awareness to these families and letting them know they can make others aware, not just in October. 

You can make someone aware at the doctor’s office– to the lady beside you. She may be going through the same thing you experienced ten years ago.  I guarantee your kind words, and support will be something she will remember–I know that is one thing that has helped me, listening to others’ stories and letting me know I wasn’t alone in my feelings. 

Each year in October, I remember each friend that would post on their social media at the same time, every year.  I would definitely empathize with them and just couldn’t imagine their pain, but thought they were so brave by being vulnerable to remember their precious babies. 

While I am generally an empathetic and caring person by nature, until this experience was my own, I developed so many new perspectives on so many different things.  I am blessed with two children, they are my world.  My pregnancy that I lost in the summer of 2020, was going to be no different. Your mind and heart begin planning, dreaming, and loving them from the moment you see those two-pink-lines. 

As time passed, and going through the physical and mental challenges of it all, I began to be more aware of families in their own fertility struggles;  perhaps, that they have gone through losing an angel baby more than once, and while the heartbreak was still on me, I pivoted and thought of someone else and how I could support and think of them. 

Each time my house is a total disaster, and the kids are fighting, and there are “50’ leven” things to do, I pause, and take-a-breath and remember how blessed I am.  Being a mother is the hardest job you’ll ever love, and going through a pregnancy loss sometimes makes you feel like you aren’t a mother to that lost child, because they aren’t here. 

Your baby mattered no matter if you were six-weeks-gestation, or full-term. You carried that child, loved that child, and the love you still have for that child in your heart is something you don’t have to forget about. I often find myself wanting to damper down that feeling, or feel weird over Halloween this year when I have random thoughts in my mind that pop up, like “oh, I wonder what we would have dressed-up our “would- have-been- 8 month old”. “ I don’t have the answers, or timeframes, or even the right things to say if you or a loved one has experienced this. It is common and it happens, as I am now #1and4 women that suffer a pregnancy or infant loss. 

You often find many people just don’t know what to say or say the wrong things that make it worse for you. The doctor who has “seen this” countless times in the ER, but at that moment you feel you are the only one. When he said, “Try again” in that moment to make you feel better, it honestly, doesn’t. Even if you don’t know what to say, just be there, be present, and listen. Ask how you can help? In any situation in life, maybe doing these things will bring awareness to helping each other more. 

No one enjoys feeling isolated or alone, and your story matters. I encourage you to find a trusted individual, professional, and support groups to help you navigate your journey. Telling someone to move on or get over it because of “xyz” may be a reality, but does not mean it is easy, will be easy, or the most empathetic thing to say to someone. Lean into others and possibly journal if you feel that it helps. This is your story and your journey, and everyone’s story will be different. Some moms and dads held their babies in their arms before they passed, others like me did not. I am honored to share just a little bit of my story, because if it helps one person, then that means the world.  

If you or someone you love is having trouble after the loss of pregnancy, we are here to help. We have a team of highly trained and qualified Counselors and Case Managers to help you on the road to acceptance. There is no waiting list. Have an appointment scheduled within 2 days of your call. Give us a call at 606-676-0638 and get connected to a clinician in your region.

Leticia Reynolds
Case Manager

Leticia Reynolds, BS is a TCM with Intrust Healthcare. She has a Bachelor’s from the University of Kentucky in Community and Leadership Development, with an emphasis in agricultural communications and journalism. She has a special interest in maternal mental health, community support for families, and support groups. She enjoys spending time with her family, going on adventures,  exploring nature, and learning/reading. 

The Mental Wellness of our Veterans is our TOP priority. We can help with Depression, Anxiety, Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, Substance and Alcohol abuse and more. You are not alone and you do not have to suffer in silence. We are here to help.

There is no waiting list. Simply call our Somerset Headquarters at 606-676-0638 and have an appointment scheduled within 2 business days. We offer services in person, by phone, or through video. You can choose what you are comfortable with.

VACCN through Optum requires a referral from your Family Doctor. Tricare East does not require a referral.