Family Guidance Center

🕯️ On this International Overdose Awareness Day, we gathered to honor those we've lost, share hope, and inspire change in our community. It was a powerful reminder of the impact we can make together.

Remember, Narcan saves lives by reversing opioid overdoses. You can stop by Family Guidance Center to pick up free Narcan—because every life is worth saving. Let’s continue to support one another and spread awareness. 💜

Family Guidance Center will be closed on Monday, September 2, 2024, in observance of Labor Day. For immediate assistance during this time, please call, text, or chat with 9-8-8. 💙

Today is International Grief Day, a time to acknowledge the pain that accompanies loss and honor the healing journey. Grief is unique for everyone, and it's okay to feel whatever you need to feel. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this path alone. Check out the do's and don'ts below that can help support yourself and others through the process. 💙

International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31) is just a few days away – and we have an event happening Thursday evening at St. Joseph City Hall!

🟣If you’re looking for a way to connect with your local community, raise awareness of overdose, and pay tribute to those who have tragically lost their lives, make sure you visit our global event map and see what’s happening near you. 🟣

FGC would like to recognize all of our team members celebrating another year of service this Augustl!! Thank you for all that you do! 🙌💙

Amber I. - 8/29/2005
Elizabeth C. - 8/25/2008
Andrew W. - 8/9/2010
Rebekah M. - 8/27/2012
Michelle H. - 8/20/2013
Sue K. - 8/20/2013
Shanin D. - 8/14/2018
Veronica B. - 8/20/2019
Ashley S. - 8/20/2019
Molly T. - 8/17/2021
Sara T. - 8/16/2022
Georgia B. - 8/15/2023
Bobbie B. - 8/15/2023
Haley C. - 8/15/2023
April G. - 8/15/2023
Jordan - L. - 8/15/2023

Come see us at Project Connect until 5:30 today!🙌🏻💚

Life can be tough, and sometimes, we feel overwhelmed. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to not be okay. 💙

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and acknowledging our struggles is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re battling anxiety, depression or just feeling off, know that you’re not alone.

Reach out, talk to someone, and take small steps towards healing. Every step counts. Let’s break the stigma together and create a world where everyone feels safe to express how they truly feel. 🌍✨

🌟 Back to School, Back to Mental Health! 🌟

As kids head back to school, it's important to remember that their mental health is just as crucial as their academic success. Transitioning from summer break to the classroom can bring excitement but also anxiety and stress.

Here are some tips to help your child thrive:

1. 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔: Encourage them to share their feelings about the new school year.
2. 𝑹𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒆 & 𝑩𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆: A consistent schedule helps manage stress, but make sure they have time for fun and relaxation too.
3. 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒇𝒖𝒍𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 & 𝑺𝒆𝒍𝒇-𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒆: Teach them simple mindfulness techniques to stay grounded during the day.
4. 𝑺𝒆𝒆𝒌 𝑺𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕: If your child seems overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor or mental health professional.
Let’s work together to make this school year a positive experience for our kids, both in and out of the classroom! 💪

🟣August is Overdose Awareness Month🟣—a crucial time to recognize the signs of an overdose, such as confusion, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness. Taking swift action can save a life—yours or a loved one's.

Opioid use, especially in combination with other substances or at high doses, significantly increases the risk of overdose. Stay vigilant, stay informed and prioritize your well-being. If you're facing stress or mental health challenges, remember the importance of self-care. Healthy coping mechanisms like exercise, mindfulness and talking to a friend or counselor can make a world of difference.💜

If you or someone you know is struggling, don't hesitate to seek help. We’re here for you—ASK FOR HELP. We also offer free Narcan to those in need because saving lives is our priority.

Thrilled to have partnered with Youth Alliance during Substance Use Prevention Week at our FGC Behavioral Health Urgent Care!🤝

Together, we engaged in meaningful conversations and shared positive mental health messages. It's inspiring to see our youth take an active role in promoting mental wellness. Looking forward to more collaborations that foster resilience and well-being in our community!👏‼💙

We were thrilled to have our very own Eric Stone, Peer Support Specialist, share his powerful story with the amazing students at Youth Alliance during their Substance Use Prevention Week. Eric’s journey is a testament to resilience and the importance of making positive choices.

Through his experience, students learned about the real impact of drugs and alcohol on their lives, the importance of setting personal boundaries, navigating peer pressure and how to build a strong support system. We are proud to partner with Youth Alliance to empower our youth with the tools they need to lead healthy, successful lives.

Thank you, Youth Alliance, for inviting us to be a part of this meaningful event! 🌱✨

Spirituality can be an important part of recovery from substance misuse, trauma or mental illness. For those in our communities who believe in a higher power outside of themselves or who participate in a religious tradition, we encourage you to continue to use your individual faith beliefs as a support. And if you are in need of therapy services, we hope you are comfortable sharing what your faith beliefs are with us so that we can better support you on your journey. 💙🩵💜

We are at The Young At Heart Resources for Healthy Aging Resource Fair! Come out to learn about our behavioral health and substance use resources - we are here until 12:00! ☀️

Join the St. Joseph, Missouri Police Department for our annual National Night Out sponsored Target. Come out and speak with members of the Missouri Conservation Department, Buchanan County EMS, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Saint Joseph, Missouri Fire Department, Buchanan County Missouri Sheriff, and of course SJPD!
See the equipment each department uses to keep our community safe and enjoy food provided by Target.
Date: August 6th, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: Civic Center Park

Join the St. Joseph, Missouri Police Department for our annual National Night Out sponsored Target. Come out and speak with members of the Missouri Conservation Department, Buchanan County EMS, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Saint Joseph, Missouri Fire Department, Buchanan County Missouri Sheriff, and of course SJPD!
See the equipment each department uses to keep our community safe and enjoy food provided by Target.

Date: August 6th, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: CIVIC CENTER PARK

FGC would like to recognize all of our team members celebrating another year of service this Julyl!! Thank you for all that you do!🙌💙
Melissa G. - 7/7/2008
Heather M. - 7/27/2010
Rosalee S. - 7/23/2012
Richard S. - 7/10/2018
Ann K. - 7/11/2018
Brittany A. - 7/16/2019
Ebony B. - 7/20/2021
Carissa C. - 7/20/2021
Leanna N. - 7/19/2022
Rachel D. - 7/5/2023

Monday reminder: This world is better with you in it. 💙

Feeling overwhelmed by a panic attack? Try these tips:

Breathe Deeply: Slow, deep breaths can help calm your mind.
Ground Yourself: Use your senses to focus on your surroundings.
Stay Present: Remind yourself that this feeling will pass.

Need support? Family Guidance Center’s Behavioral Health Urgent Care is here to help. Visit us at 4906 Frederick Avenue or call (816) 676 – 7222.

✨Friday Reminder!✨

We are thrilled to share that Jen Gentry, Community Behavioral Health Liaison Team Director, recently gave an educational presentation at The United Way on the vital topic of de-escalation. 🗣️✨

Attendees learned about effective techniques and when they can be most helpful in fostering calm and understanding in challenging situations.

🌟Whether you’re a professional, a caregiver, or someone interested in improving communication skills, Jen's insights and practical strategies were invaluable! Reach out to us or The United Way of Greater St. Joseph if you would like more information.🌟

We are thrilled to share that Phallin Thornton, Youth Behavioral Health Liaison, was a part of the Cops Care Youth Camp this year! The SRO Unit's camp took place from July 8th – July 12th, in St. Joseph, welcoming youth ages 9-13. ✨💥

Participants enjoyed a week filled with fun activities like baseball, kickball, dodgeball and basketball.
Additionally, they heard from inspiring guest speakers, including our very own Phallin Thornton, who discussed topics like the importance of mental health, making good life choices, bullying, stress management and responsibility.👏

It was an incredible opportunity for the kids to grow, have fun, have positive interactions with law enforcement and learning the safe places they can turn to! 🏀⚾🤾‍♂️

☀️As our area remains under a heat advisory through 8pm this evening, make sure to stay safe and hydrated if you have to be outdoors. It's also important to know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses. For more heat safety tips, visit https://bit.ly/4aUxp6M.

🌟 Here's your sign to check in with a friend today! 🌟

Sometimes, a simple "How are you?" can make a world of difference. If someone you know is struggling, remind them that help is just a phone call away. The 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 to provide support.

👉 Reach out, connect, and let others know they are not alone. Together, we can create a supportive community and make a positive impact.💚

🌟 Monday Mental Health Reminders 🌟

🎆 Family Guidance Center will be closed on Independence Day, July 4th, as we celebrate our nation's freedom. We will be open for regular business hours on Friday, July 5th. 🎆

If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is always available. You can call, text, or chat 9-8-8 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Stay safe and enjoy the holiday! 🎉

‼ Ribbon cutting celebration today at noon ‼

Join us in celebrating Family Guidance Center in a Grand Opening on June 28th at Noon at their new location, 609 E Platte Clay Way, Cameron!

We are proud members of the Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce ‼👏

Join us next Thursday, August 31st, at 7:00 PM, as we come together to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day and remember those we've lost to overdose.💜

🕯️ Event Highlights 🕯️

🌟 7:00 PM: We kick off the evening at Felix Street Square with a special proclamation by Mayor Josendale.
🎙️ 7:10 PM: An open mic session begins, providing an opportunity for you to honor your loved ones and share stories of hope and inspiration.
🌌 8:00 PM: Join us for a heartfelt invocation and the creation of a circle of light, symbolizing our collective support.
📸 Memorial Tributes: We've set up a dedicated table where you can place photos and mementos of those who've lost their lives to overdose.
🎨 Rock Painting Station: Get creative at our memorial rock painting station.
📚 Educational Booths: Explore informative booths to learn more about overdose prevention and support.
🎁 Free Giveaways: While supplies last, we're giving away special items like pins, masks, lanyards, and flashlights as a token of our appreciation for your presence.
🪑 Bring Your Lawn Chairs: Don't forget to bring your comfy lawn chairs to make the evening even more enjoyable.

Let's come together in solidarity, spread awareness, and remember our loved ones on this important day. See you there! 💜