Here are tips for getting ready for an assessment with the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), which is managed by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Be sure to send information to the DDA case manager ahead of time and keep a copy. If you save the assessment electronically in Word/Google Documents, Read More
Category: Health & Wellness
Information on physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being.
Families and Youth Have a Voice on Mental Health Matters Through FYSPRT
A Brief Overview FYSPRT (pronounced fiss-burt) is a hard acronym to learn, but it’s worth the effort for families and young people who want to talk about improving mental healthcare systems. Here’s what FYSPRT means: Family members, Youth and System Partners (professionals) get together at a “Round Table” (meaning everyone has an equal voice) to Read More
Mental Health Education and Support at School can be Critical
A Brief Overview Two Washington students die from suicide each week. In a typical high-school classroom of about 30 students, chances are high that 2-3 students have attempted suicide in the past year. Read on for more detail from the 2018 statewide Healthy Youth Survey. Approximately one in five youth experience a mental illness before Read More
Genetic Testing: Parents Face Many Choices
A Brief Overview More than 1,000 genetic tests are available. Whether to test is voluntary, and families can consider how the testing might impact social and emotional well-being. Genetic testing is available at various ages and stages through the lifespan. Read on for information about options from pre-birth through adulthood. A directory from the National Read More
Helper Dogs Provide Service, Therapy or Emotional Support
A Brief Overview Service dogs and therapy dogs have different jobs. Read on to learn more about the differences and how dogs can help people with diverse disabilities. A service dog is trained to support a specific person in unique circumstances. Therapy dogs are chosen by temperament and trained to use closeness and touch to Read More