May is Mental Health Awareness Month

By 7017444915 May 29, 2026
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” Colossians 3:23 For many years, Ryan made his living as a truck driver. It was work he knew well, but when health concerns made it necessary for him to make a change, he found himself facing an uncertain future. In March of 2024, Ryan was referred to Hope Haven through Vocational Rehabilitation Services for help finding meaningful employment. Like many people starting over, the path was not immediate or easy. Ryan and his employment specialist explored many different opportunities, but the right fit had not yet come along. Then, in April of 2025, BioVerse entered the picture. BioVerse had partnered with Hope Haven before, both through in-house production work and by welcoming individuals on-site to help with production needs. When they began looking for an office assistant, Ryan came to mind. Although he had never worked in an office role, he had basic computer knowledge, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. A work trial was arranged, and almost immediately, it became clear that Ryan and BioVerse were a perfect match. Since joining the team, Ryan has become an important part of BioVerse’s daily operations. His supervisor, Lori Henning, shared that Ryan has shown “a rare combination of technical curiosity and a can-do work ethic.” He has embraced new technology, including AI, to help solve software challenges, and when production needs increased, he stepped onto the manufacturing floor without hesitation. Lori wrote, “He hasn’t just filled a role; he has enriched our company culture and reminded us of the value of a truly dedicated partner.” For Ryan, this opportunity was not simply about finding a new job. It was about finding a place where his skills could shine in a new way. His story shows us that when people are connected with meaningful work, they do more than just fill a role. They strengthen an entire workplace. Your support helps open the door for people like Ryan. Because of your generosity, Hope Haven can continue building partnerships with local employers and help people find places where their skills and strengths are truly valued. If you wish to contribute, plea se CLICK HERE to donate today. Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in Hope Haven’s mission.
Show More
A group of people are playing instruments on a stage in front of a crowd.
By Hope Haven October 24, 2025
February 13, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
A large group of people are sitting at long tables in a large room.
By nicole.andree October 6, 2025
March 27, 2026
More Posts →

Today’s blog is written by Susan Rohan Hope Haven IPR (Intensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation) Practitioner 

May is Mental Health Awareness month.

As part of that I was asked to talk a little about both what is new in the world of mental health and what Hope Haven offers for mental health services. Let me introduce myself. My name is Susan Rohan and I work in the Spencer office as the Intensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner.

Firstly – Hope Haven has three mental health programs Key to Success IPS and Peer Support. 

Key to Success : A program that is designed to assist individuals with mental health struggles to obtain or recover successful and satisfying roles in their community.

IPS : An evidence-based practice of supported employment for persons with serious mental illness. IPS is different from other types of supported employment in that employment services to an individual are integrated with his/her mental health treatment.

Peer Support : Recovery mentors (people who are living well in their own recovery from mental illness) assist adults with mental illness on the journey of recovery by providing support through shared experience.

What is new in the realm of mental health? The resounding thought is “pandemic brain.”  We are living in a very different world than we were even a year ago. Research is being done on what the pandemic and social isolation have done to our minds and let’s be honest: the results are not surprising.  One article stated that our cognitive functioning has been drastically affected and we are less able to process both emotions and new information. 

We should take to heart that we are inherently social creatures and need to make time for building connections with others. Yet after a year of taking steps back from others doing online holidays with loved ones and not being able to attend our favorite events we are forgetting just how to do that. 

We will have to re-learn social connection and how to understand body language. How do we take the time to recognize our losses in the last year honor those feelings associated with our losses and re-build society to care for our neighbors? We need to care for each other ourselves and find ways to fill our own cups.

That way when we are all faced with the harsh reality of the world – we have the strength compassion and energy to carry on through the face of adversity and struggle.  We are stronger together when we honor each individual for their unique perspective. 

Mental Health Awareness month will come and go yet again this year. 

What will you do between this May and the next to bring awareness and understanding? I will continue to advocate for individuals learn and speak up when I see injustice. I will struggle with how to be the leader that is needed.  I will fail and then I will get back up with a deeper understanding a better perspective and new ideas on how I can be a light to others. 

And at the end of the day I will know that what I did was not perfect but it was done with care compassion and joy.  Good luck to you and I pray that these words have touched you in some way. 

– Susan Rohan IPR Practitioner Key to Success

The post May is Mental Health Awareness Month appeared first on Hope Haven.