Author: UCS

Safe Haven, also known as “infant relinquishment,” allows a parent to leave their newborn in a safe place in certain circumstances with certain individuals.
Under Wisconsin law, a parent can leave their unharmed newborn child under 72 hours old with a:

• police officer
• 911 emergency medical staff person
• hospital staff member

without fear of legal consequences. If you do not indicate that you will be back for your child this is called “Safe Haven” or “Infant Relinquishment.” You do not have to give your name or address to the professional accepting the baby, unless:

• The baby has been harmed
• You are being forced by someone to give up the baby
• The baby is more than 3 days old

You may be asked if you are willing to fill out a form. This form is NOT required. It will, however, help providers give the best care to your infant now and in the future.
Get more information here

The rate of adolescents who are dying by suicide has risen in the last few years across the nation as well as in Wisconsin, especially among vulnerable populations. The challenges faced by today’s youth are unique to their age, race, and gender identity and require early intervention. Unfortunately, in 2019 most Wisconsin high school students who are considering suicide are not receiving the help they need.

Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. This training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.

Sign up for the FREE Adult Mental Health First Aid Training here: https://forms.gle/cAsawmoo6No2WtBc6

Hi everyone, Governor Tony Evers here.

The holidays can be a difficult time for many and Wisconsinites across our state and country have had a stressful year personally, financially, emotionally.

It’s important to remember that no matter what you are going through, you’re not alone and help is available.

The Department of Health Services has compiled resources for Wisconsinites to stay resilient through these tough times. From assistance with paying bills and putting food on the table, to mental health counseling, head to dhs.wisconsin.gov/resilient to find help

You can also text HOPELINE to 741-741 for free emotional support services at any time from anywhere.

Our kids are no exception as well. Which is why the Office of Children’s Mental Health put together resources for parents and families to use over the holiday season to connect with kids, provide support, and help them get through these tough times at children.wi.gov.

Let’s stay hopeful, let’s stay safe, and let’s get through these upcoming months together, Wisconsin.

Thank you.

The 2020 holidays are going to be different.  With the advice being to stay home, be safe, and help stop the spread of COVID-19, we offer suggestions on how to make the holidays still meaningful and fulfilling. 
Check out our Suggestions here:

Press Release: Gov. Evers Delivers Radio Address Encouraging Wisconsinites to Take Care of their Mental Health this Holiday Season

Hello, Wisconsin. Governor Tony Evers here. For many Wisconsinites the holiday season can be a difficult time of year even under normal circumstances, but this year as the COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly every aspect of Wisconsinites’ lives, it is critical that we all take care of our mental and emotional well-being. First, check in on your people. Whether that’s talking on the phone or connecting over the Zoom, those conversations can provide comfort to those who need it. Second, know that you are not alone. There are resources available no matter your age or your struggle. Text HOPELINE to 741-741 for free emotional support services that can provide help and hope. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Or, go online to resilient.wisconsin.gov for more resources. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. It’s better than “okay” – it can make a real difference for you and for your loved ones. Let’s get through this together. Stay healthy, stay safe, and stay resilient, Wisconsin.

November 30th is Meth awareness day.

In the next 5–10 years, it’s anticipated to increase even more. In fact from 2010–2014, grams of methamphetamine seized increased at an alarming 1,592%. Because of statistics like these, the Wisconsin Department of Justice, in partnership with Marshfield Clinic Health System, Northwoods Coalition, and the Alliance for Wisconsin Youth, are committed to making sure we all KNOW METH.

Know Meth in Wisconsin

Few things worry parents, grandparents, and other caregivers more than the prospect of children using alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs. They know youth under their charge spend many hours each day out of their sight and are subject to influences they can’t control. Youth may be encouraged by their peers to try marijuana, try inhalants, or misuse prescription drugs. Media often link alcohol use with fun and excitement and with being popular and sophisticated. Dangers seem to lurk everywhere.

This resource guide for parents offers advice on keeping children substance free. Review statistics about adolescent substance use, and learn tips on good communication. The guide also features substance facts and case studies for additional insight.

Read it for yourself here

The DOSE OF REALITY Prescription Painkiller Abuse Prevention, Education, and Awareness effort is a statewide call-to-action aimed at preventing Wisconsin residents from abusing and becoming addicted to prescription opioids (or narcotics). This is a multi-faceted communications effort that involves television, radio, online, print, and outdoor messaging, as well as targeted and specialized materials to be used by the medical community with their patients, law enforcement, and more. See below for some of the ways we are raising awareness of this issue in Wisconsin

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