August 30 is National Grief Awareness Day, a chance to bring more understanding to a topic that often gets brushed aside. For teens, especially, the different types of grief can be confusing and isolating. They may not have the words to describe what they’re experiencing, feeling like nobody gets it. Whether you’re struggling with grief…
As Ascend continues to grow and expand, we add even more incredible individuals to our team. If you’re considering Ascend as a treatment program for yourself or your teen, you may want to learn more about who is going to be involved in your care. With our staff spotlights, you get an inside look at…
Every July, BIPOC Mental Health Month highlights the mental health needs and experiences of people of color, including Black and Indigenous communities. The month encourages both reflection and action, from raising awareness to creating real change in how mental health is understood and supported. Learn more about the origin of BIPOC Mental Health Month and…
When you’re struggling with your mental health, getting the right kind of help can make a huge difference. But figuring out what kind of help you need? That’s not always easy. You might hear terms like “residential treatment” or “IOP” and wonder what they actually mean. That’s where understanding the levels of care for mental…
At Ascend, we want you to connect with our team on every level before entering into our care. Whether you’re the teen in treatment or you’re part of the family, our blog is here to provide guidance and insight into what happens in our treatment programs. From residential to outpatient support, there are a ton…
When life feels heavy, moving your body might not be the first thing you think about. But getting active — even just a little — can seriously help your mind feel stronger, calmer, and more energized. So, why does physical activity improve mental health? Let’s break down the benefits of physical activity on mental health…
Are you ready for another look behind the scenes at some of the team members who make Ascend such an amazing place? We’re here with A Day in the Life of one of our Primary Therapists. Meet Emily and learn more about what she does to enhance our residential treatment programs, ensuring your clients thrive.…
Living with a chronic illness isn’t just about managing physical symptoms. It can also affect how you feel emotionally, socially, and mentally. So, can chronic illness affect mental health? The answer is yes — and for many teens, it already does. If you’re dealing with a condition like asthma, diabetes, migraines, arthritis, or something else,…
At Ascend, we hope to enhance transparency for incoming clients and their families by sharing a day in the life of one of our staff members each month. For the March spotlight, we’ve chosen to highlight one of our farm techs. With spring nearly sprung, she seems like the perfect choice to introduce you to…
Prescription drugs come from doctors, so they must be safe, right? Not exactly. Just because a medication is prescribed doesn’t mean it can’t be dangerous. Maybe you’ve heard that ADHD meds help you focus or that painkillers make stress disappear. But misusing prescription drugs can lead to addiction, serious health risks, and choices you never…