New Family Support Group
Erica Kegley, Outreach Manager, Holzer Psychiatric Services
The Greater Cincinnati Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association is starting up a new family support group for Gallia and surrounding counties. This support group is for families dealing with dementia. Those within this support group can learn tips and tricks from others who may be dealing with the same dementia issues.
“Anyone who has had their lives touched by dementia can participate,” said Erica Kegley, Outreach Manager, Holzer Psychiatric Services. “Whether it’s a family member, friend, neighbor or co-worker, all are encouraged to join.”
Meetings will be held on the second Monday of every month via zoom or by phone. The group plans to meet in person once COVID-19 restrictions ease. Meetings will be a safe space for those affected by dementia to gather and share stories and information with one another.
“We hope participants will interact during the group, but all are free to just listen,” said Kegley. “If they are feeling nervous, they don't have to talk. Chances are everyone might be feeling the same and everything shared is confidential.”
While the support group is a great place to share with one another and gain access to local resources, there are other ways to receive support if you or someone you know is struggling with dementia. Kegley suggests reaching out to the Alzheimer’s Association as well as Holzer’s Inpatient Psychiatric Unit as both are great resources full of people there to help.
To register for the support group, call 1-800-272-3900. If you need immediate assistance, call the Holzer Psychiatric in-patient number at 740-446-5808. This line is managed 24/7, and a representative will be able to assist you. Additional resources include National Suicide Prevention Line which can be reached at 1-800-273-8255. Calls are completely confidential. Visit the Holzer website at www.holzer.org to find close to home psychiatric care.
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Holzer Health System offers trusted psychiatric care close to home. With three providers in the service area, you can trust that care will be individually tailored to a patient’s needs. For more information on psychiatric care at Holzer, visit www.holzer.org/care-treatment/psychiatry/
