The relationship between mental health and substance abuse is complicated and interrelated. We have previously written about destigmatizing substance use, and unfortunately, mental health issues are also often stigmatized. But by understanding these disorders and how they influence each other, we can create an environment that promotes healing and recovery. It must be noted: not everyone with substance use disorder also experiences mental health issues. Nor does someone having mental health disorders mean that they will engage in substance use. But there is a strong correlation between the two that needs to be understood to offer better support to people struggling with these health issues. Here are just a few of the ways that substance use disorder and mental health … [Read more...] about How Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Influence Each Other
Since 1987, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence has run a public health program in April known as Alcohol Awareness Month. The program has focused on different issues regarding alcohol consumption over the years, including its use among teenagers. Most recently, organizers have used the month to discuss the causes and effects of unhealthy alcohol use, as well as how to help families and communities deal with drinking problems. Sojourner House is very familiar with the impact of alcohol abuse on individuals and families. According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 28.6 million adults ages 18 and older had Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the past year. This Alcohol Awareness Month, we’re focused on two key things that all community members … [Read more...] about Talking About Alcohol Use Disorder for Alcohol Awareness Month
At Sojourner House, we help families that have been impacted by addiction – or, as it’s clinically referred to, substance use disorder. While “addiction” is still a very common term in general conversations, “substance abuse disorder” has been the preferred medical terminology since 2013, as detailed in the American Psychiatric Association’s guidelines. The terminology and language we use to discuss substance abuse are extremely powerful. The right language can help to lay the groundwork for understanding substance abuse as a complex, chronic, treatable disease from which patients can recover, the same as any other medical condition. The wrong language, however, can stigmatize the disease, as well as the person suffering from it. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, … [Read more...] about Words Matter and Can Remove Stigma from Substance Abuse
We are so honored to have advocate, non-profit leader, and mother, Gisele Barreto Fetterman as the Honorary Chair of the 19th annual Victorian Tea. The Victorian Tea is Sojourner House’s largest annual fundraiser. Hundreds of supporters put on their Sunday best to connect, sip tea, enjoy light refreshments, bid on auction items, learn about the work of Sojourner House and hear from the women and families they serve. With her years of experience running Free Store 15104 and For Good PGH, Ms. Fetterman understands the needs and challenges facing the people in our area and feels it is important to support the women and mothers at Sojourner House. In her own words: “I think women will save the world and all my heroes are women. I really believe in investing and supporting. You know, … [Read more...] about Meet the 2023 Victorian Tea Honorary Chair, Gisele Barreto Fetterman
Each year, we honor a special individual or organization with the Pearl of Hope Award. This award recognizes the deep commitment of an individual or an organization to the mission of Sojourner House and Sojourner MOMS. We’re proud to award the 2023 Pearl of Hope Award to our long-time community partner, Homeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF)! For 15 years, Sojourner House and HCEF have partnered on a number of projects aimed at helping the children and families served by Sojourner House. The Pearl of Hope award represents our thanks and gratitude for HCEF’s never-ending support and dedication to our mutual work. A Shared Mission Sojourner House and HCEF share a dedication to supporting and educating children experiencing homelessness in our community. The … [Read more...] about 2023 Pearl of Hope Winner: Homeless Children’s Education Fund
Pittsburgh, PA (February 1, 2023) — Sojourner House announced today that Gisele Barreto Fetterman is the Honorary Event Chair of the 19th Annual Victorian Tea. The ticketed fundraising event will take place on Sunday, April 16, 2023, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Downtown Pittsburgh. Registered attendees are invited to a meet and greet from 1 to 2 p.m. also taking place at the Omni William Penn Hotel.“We are delighted to have Gisele serving as Honorary Event Chair,” said De’netta Benjamin-Miller, Executive Director of Sojourner House. “Gisele is an innovative changemaker in our region, having founded the Free Store 15104 and co-founded 412 Food Rescue and For Good PGH. She is committed to building pathways for families to thrive, which very much aligns … [Read more...] about Sojourner House Victorian Tea Welcomes Gisele Barreto Fetterman as Honorary Event Chair