Creating workplaces that support workers’ mental health is important as rising concerns about safety and mental health continue to appear in the news. For All Seasons is sharing ways businesses can create workplaces that support mental health and how to recognize the warning signs in a co-worker who might be struggling.

Since COVID, most workplaces have realized the need to address mental health concerns. From financial stress to feeling excluded or working in unhealthy environments, a range of factors can influence how employees experience mental health at work.

“More workers today are looking for workplaces that support mental health when they seek future job opportunities. In the U.S., one in five adults experiences a mental illness, and less than half receive treatment. As employers, we need to be aware of this,” shares Beth Anne Dorman, President and CEO of For All Seasons.

Dorman shares that employers can offer mental health support to their employees in different ways. These include:

• Connection and Community – fostering positive social interactions and relationships in the workplace supports worker well-being
• Work-Life Harmony –  supporting employees in balancing the demands of their jobs with their personal lives
• Recognition and Care – helping people know that their work is valued and as an individual they matter to those around them
• Opportunity for Growth – creating more opportunities for workers to accomplish goals based on their skills and growth

“Helping businesses and co-workers recognize the warning signs of common mental health conditions and getting workers the help they need is also top of mind for many employers today. Knowing the warning signs is an important first step.” Dorman adds.

General types of changes that could signal someone is struggling with their mental health include: changes in appearance, changes in behavior or mood, withdrawal, and changes in thinking.

Dorman shares that if someone sees a coworker exhibiting any of these types of changes over time, it is important to be proactive. Checking in with someone you have concerns about, listening without judgment, and connecting them to resources could help.

For All Seasons offers both mental health and leadership trainings in the community to help businesses and organizations improve workplace culture and lead from a place of courage and understanding when tackling some of these issues. For further information, contact For All Seasons at 410-822-1018 or visit www.forallseasonsinc.org.

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For All Seasons Behavioral Health & Rape Crisis Center offers mental health services, victim and crisis support, and education & outreach on Maryland’s Mid-Shore and throughout the state. The agency’s unique model of care ensures anyone can receive the highest-quality, trauma-certified mental health care when they need it, regardless of language or ability to pay. For information about For All Seasons walk-in hours, contact 410-822-1018 or visit ForAllSeasonsInc.org.

Students of Saints Peter and Paul High School (SSPP) in Easton, Maryland, and Saint Andrew’s School in Middletown, Delaware, recently donated to For All Seasons, bringing hope and comfort to clients of the agency.

SSPP National Art Honor Students created and donated Mugs of Hope to first-time clients seeking mental health treatment. This heartfelt initiative was designed to remind individuals that they are not alone and to offer a tangible expression of care at a time that can feel overwhelming. Each hand-painted mug is a unique creation, lovingly filled with calming tea, hot chocolate, sweet treats, and a handmade bookmark carrying an uplifting personal message – small gestures of peace and encouragement.

While still a senior, Ember Theeke helped coordinate the donation effort to bring the work of For All Seasons to her community at Saint Andrew’s School in Middletown. Because Saint Andrew’s values networking and supporting the broader communities of its students, the vestry seeks out worthy causes for the school to support. Ember put forth For All Seasons as a possible recipient, spoke at one of the school’s services, and helped inspire staff and students to contribute.

Now an alumna, Ember reflects on the experience: “I believe that the work of For All Seasons should be shared as widely as possible. I was happy to talk about what the agency does with Saint Andrew’s. Our vestry was immediately on board with coordinating a staff and student donation. I have so much love for For All Seasons, for your amazing work, and for Saint Andrew’s for recognizing your value! I’m glad these two amazing places could connect,” shares Theeke, alumna of Saint Andrew’s School.

For All Seasons Behavioral Health & Rape Crisis Center offers mental health services, victim and crisis support, and education & outreach on Maryland’s Mid-Shore and throughout the state. The agency’s unique model of care ensures anyone can receive the highest-quality, trauma-certified mental health care when they need it, regardless of language or ability to pay. For information about For All Seasons walk-in hours, contact 410-822-1018 or visit ForAllSeasonsInc.org.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2023, suicide was among the top eight leading causes of death for people ages 10 to 64 and the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34. To address this urgent issue in our community, For All Seasons is launching its annual suicide prevention campaign under the theme “I’m Fine” Isn’t the Whole Story – a message reminding us that the people we care about might be struggling silently behind words that seem reassuring.

So often, when we ask someone how they’re doing, we hear “I’m fine.” But, what if that’s not the whole story? What if, underneath that response, there’s something more serious they don’t know how to share?

For many, talking about suicide is scary and uncomfortable. It can feel like there’s a “right” thing to say, but what if you say the wrong thing instead? Here’s the truth: talking about suicide doesn’t make things worse. Starting the conversation shows you care and might be a relief for someone who has been afraid to talk about what they are experiencing. It may help save a life.

The Mayo Clinic Health System emphasizes the power of reaching out, saying, “It improves mental health outcomes and the likelihood that the person will seek treatment. If someone is in crisis or depressed, asking if they are thinking about suicide can help, so don’t hesitate to start the conversation.”

A small, compassionate question can be the start of something life-changing: “Hey. You’ve seemed off lately. Are you okay?” “I’m worried about you. Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”

When we look past the words “I’m fine” and trust our instincts, we often notice signs that something isn’t right. Most people show warning signs before a suicide attempt. And, while we can’t be responsible for someone else’s actions, we can be the person who helps them get to a safer place.

The National Institutes of Health and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention offer five steps that can guide you when you suspect someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts:

1. ASK. Say it out loud: “Are you thinking about suicide?” Don’t sugarcoat it. Don’t tiptoe around it. Just ask. Research shows that this doesn’t make things worse; it helps.
2. BE THERE. No judgment. No fixing. Just listen. Try something like: “I’m really glad you’re telling me this. Thank you for trusting me.” You don’t need to have all the answers. Just be present.
3. KEEP THEM SAFE. If someone says they’re thinking about suicide, ask: “Do you have a plan?” If the answer is yes, help reduce access to anything dangerous. Stay with them. Talk it through. Get support.
4. HELP THEM CONNECT. Let them know they’re not alone. Acknowledge their pain and offer:
   “This is a lot. Let’s talk to someone who can help.”
   “We can call 988 together. I’ll stay with you.”
   Help them connect to a therapist, a parent, a school counselor, a spiritual advisor, or a friend. You can also call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
5. FOLLOW UP. The conversation doesn’t end when the moment passes. Supportive, ongoing contact can play an important role in suicide prevention. Check in tomorrow, the next day, and the week after. A simple message like “thinking of you” or “want to grab lunch?” can remind someone they matter.=

What If You See Something Online?
If someone posts something online that feels like a cry for help, don’t scroll past. Most social media platforms have tools to report concerning posts and send support. Learn more about that at 988lifeline.org/help-someone-else/support-on-social-media. If you’re concerned about someone, don’t wait. Trust your gut. Check in. Because sometimes, the people who say “I’m fine” are the ones who need us most.

For All Seasons’ 24-Hour Crisis Hotlines:

• English: 410.820.5600
• Español: 410.829.6143
• English/Español Text Line: 410.829.6143
• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988

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Each September, For All Seasons launches its annual “No Matter What… You Matter” suicide prevention campaign. For more information, please visit www.NoMatterWhatYouMatter.org. For All Seasons Behavioral Health & Rape Crisis Center offers mental health services, victim and crisis support, and education & outreach on Maryland’s Mid-Shore and throughout the state. The agency’s unique model of care ensures anyone can receive the highest-quality, trauma-certified mental health care when they need it, regardless of language or ability to pay. For more information about For All Seasons, please call (410) 822-1018 or visit www.ForAllSeasonsinc.org.

As our children transition from summer to the new school year, For All Seasons – the region’s behavioral health and rape crisis center – wants parents to know ways that they can build their child’s coping toolbox for some of the stressors that come with going back to school.

Mental Health America says that changing friendships, getting your brain back into “learning mode,” and balancing school with other responsibilities are just some of the ways that starting a new school year can be stressful. The coping toolbox is a collection of skills, techniques, items, and other suggestions that your child can turn to as soon as they start to feel anxious or distressed.

Creating your toolbox can be as simple as writing a list of what helps, like breathing exercises or playing with a pet – this way, when children are struggling with their mental health they don’t have to remember what to do or search for tips – they know what works best for them. Physical toolboxes could include such items as a stress ball, written notes of encouragement, or even photos that make them feel happy. This could be kept in a child’s bookbag or locker for access when they need reassurance.

Other ideas for coping with stress as school resumes could include mood boosters, such as:

• Watching a funny YouTube video
• Reorganizing your room
• Playing a game outside
• Watching a movie you loved when you were younger
• Repeating affirmations like: I believe in myself. Fear doesn’t control me. I let go of my sadness. I am safe.

According to the Child Mind Institute, the biggest changes are those starting kindergarten, middle school, and high school. These transitions involve new schools, new routines, and lots of unfamiliar faces. It’s understandable for kids (and parents) to be a bit anxious, but these new beginnings are opportunities for them to develop important academic and social skills and a stronger sense of self.

For students starting kindergarten:

• Practicing things like opening snacks, using the bathroom solo, and packing a backpack
• Teaching kids strategies they can use to calm down when they’re nervous that are part of their personal toolbox

For students starting middle school:

• Helping students learn time management and study skills for changing classes for the first time and the increased school workload with color-coded folders, calendars, and checklists
• Helping students learn to regulate emotions and handle friendships as they navigate the social and emotional challenges that come with puberty

For students starting high school:

• Helping encourage students’ independence in completing tasks without your reminders and teaching them self-advocacy skills
• Providing proactive guidance to students for how to handle situations involving sex and substances

For further information, visit Building Your Toolbox https://mhanational.org/back-to-school-with-mental-health-in-mind/. If you or your child needs additional support, reach out to a local mental health provider.

For All Seasons Behavioral Health & Rape Crisis Center offers mental health services, victim and crisis support, and education & outreach on Maryland’s Mid-Shore and throughout the state. The agency’s unique model of care ensures anyone can receive the highest-quality, trauma-certified mental health care when they need it, regardless of language or ability to pay. For more information about For All Seasons, please call (410) 822-1018 or visit www.ForAllSeasonsinc.org.

For All Seasons Center for Learning is offering an introductory online training to equip hospitality professionals with the critical knowledge and tools to recognize and respond to human trafficking in lodging environments. Designed specifically for hotel, motel, and short-term rental staff—including front desk personnel, housekeepers, security staff, and managers—this program demystifies human trafficking and empowers learners to take practical action.

Led by Sean Walker, a nationally recognized safety and security expert with over 25 years of experience in hospitality, the course addresses both the myths and the realities of trafficking. Participants will learn how traffickers exploit the privacy and access provided by hotels and motels, what signs to watch for during check-in and throughout a guest’s stay, and how to act when something doesn’t feel right. Emphasis is placed on real-world scenarios, non-confrontational reporting, and establishing proactive relationships with local law enforcement.

“Human trafficking poses a direct threat to our region’s hospitality industry, by damaging reputations, undermining operational efficiency, and increasing costs. For All Seasons’ Regional Navigator Program is actively addressing this issue by training our business owners to improve customer trust, ensure public safety, and enhance employee satisfaction, ultimately driving long-term economic success in the region,” said Susan Ahlstrom, Regional Navigator at For All Seasons.

The online training program includes:

• A foundational overview of what human trafficking is—and what it is not
• Common behaviors and red flags at check-in and during a guest’s stay
• Best practices in response, including communication, policy development, and law enforcement engagement
• Mental health considerations for frontline workers who may witness or report trafficking
• Resources for further training, awareness, and organizational readiness

Participants will also hear a follow-up conversation between Sean Walker and For All Seasons’ Chief Clinical Officer, Lesa Mulcahy, focusing on the emotional impact of this work and how agencies like For All Seasons can support staff following traumatic incidents.

Whether you work the front desk or manage operations, this course offers the clarity, confidence, and tools needed to play a meaningful role in preventing exploitation. Completing this training signals a commitment to guest safety and community responsibility because every action, no matter how small, has the power to disrupt trafficking and create hope.

For further information, visit https://forallseasonsinc.lpages.co/human-trafficking-hospitality-training/, and for questions, contact: [email protected].

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For All Seasons provides the highest quality mental health and victim services to children, adults, and families across Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Services are offered in both English and Spanish and include therapy, psychiatry, victim advocacy, 24-hour crisis hotlines, outreach, and community education. For information about For All Seasons walk-in hours, contact For All Seasons at 410-822-1018 or visit ForAllSeasonsInc.org.

For All Seasons will host its annual School Supplies Giveaway and Resource Fair on Wednesday, August 20, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Idlewild Park in Easton. Talbot County Department of Social Services is a key partner, contributing to the purchase of hundreds of backpacks pre-stuffed with supplies for community children in need. In addition to the backpacks and school supplies, the event will offer health and wellness resources, snow cones, raffles, games, and more.

“For All Seasons recognizes the needs that exist in our community. In addition to getting our students ready to return to school with school supplies, the event connects the community to important health and wellness resources, including mental health resources, which can help families get the school year off to a great start,” states Katie Theeke, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at For All Seasons.

Among the vendors to date who will participate are Anchor Church, CarePacks, Easton Elementary School, Rivers Crossing Wellness Community (Crossroads Community), State of MD Office of Oral Health, Seedco/MD Health Connection, Eastpoint Church, Talbot County Department of Social Services, SHORE UP, Inc., The Village Maternal Holistic Wellness Center, Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center, Talbot County Free Library, Choptank Community Health, Talbot Humane, Santé, AFSP – American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Talbot County Parks & Recreation, Partners in Care, Talbot County Health Department, Appleseed Books, CareFirst BlueCross Blue Shield, University of Maryland Shore Regional Cancer Center, Shore Legal Access, and Charlie Health.

Additional sponsors for the event include the Talbot County Health Department, the Easton Lions Club, Anchor Church, and the Talbot County Children’s Advocacy Center.  If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for the event, reach out to Kelsey Trumbull-Meyers at [email protected].

For All Seasons Behavioral Health & Rape Crisis Center offers mental health services, victim and crisis support, and education & outreach on Maryland’s Mid-Shore and throughout the state. The agency’s unique model of care ensures anyone can receive the highest-quality, trauma-certified mental health care when they need it, regardless of language or ability to pay. For information about For All Seasons walk-in hours, contact 410-822-1018 or visit ForAllSeasonsInc.org.

The backbone of For All Seasons’ community outreach has always been its volunteers. For All Seasons heavily uses volunteers for its community and educational events. This includes the Hooper’s Island Resource Fair for migrant women, the School Supplies Giveaway Resource Fair, and Frosty’s Holiday Village – our biggest events held throughout the year.

The agency also has volunteers to help host its information tables at the many outreach events held annually throughout the Shore region. Whether it’s a human resources fair, a festival, or another local event, volunteers play a vital role in helping the agency connect the community with our resources. Students seeking community service hours are also encouraged to participate in volunteer work.

“Volunteers also help us with mailing projects and delivering flyers for our School Supplies Giveaway Resource Fair, and other events,” states Mary Wilson, Community Engagement Coordinator at For All Seasons.

“It is important to have volunteers in our community to help support the vital services For All Seasons provides and help us make deeper connections within the community,” she adds.

Soon, For All Seasons will be launching an online volunteer training and orientation program. To volunteer at For All Seasons, visit https://forallseasonsinc.org/get-involved/volunteer/ or contact Mary Wilson at [email protected].

For All Seasons provides the highest quality mental health and victim services to children, adults, and families across Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Services are offered in both English and Spanish and include therapy, psychiatry, victim advocacy, 24-hour crisis hotlines, outreach, and community education. For information about For All Seasons walk-in hours, contact For All Seasons at 410-822-1018 or visit ForAllSeasonsInc.org.