News/Blog

I am an employee of a mental health agency, a citizen of Winnebago County, an advocate for mental health treatment in our community, a tax payer and consumer . Because of these facts, this blog entry reads as an editorial. As an individual, the topic is so personal, hitting close to home. As a professional, I see people who need help but can't...

Stepping Stones of Rockford is ready to celebrate #GivingTuesday on Tuesday, December 3, 2019, joining millions around the world participating in the global generosity movement. Stepping Stones of Rockford seeks to inspire YOUR generosity by inviting you to take part in our " Salting-for-Safety " project as part of #GivingTuesday. Did you...

For this post, I've focused on PTSD ( Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)  in Veterans , in recognition of Veterans Day (annually recognized on November 11 th) . Veterans Day honors America's veterans "for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good." Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is certainly not...

SAVE THE DATE! Stepping Stones of Rockford is bringing VICTOR RIVAS RIVERS to speak at the annual dinner! TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2020, "Stepping Into Hope" includes dinner, silent auction and Keynote Speaker Victor Rivas Rivers, National Spokesperson for the National Network to End Domestic Violence. A veteran star of more than two dozen films, Victor Ri...

​If you're questioning why a mental health agency is writing about Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we've got news for you: Domestic Violence awareness is EVERYONE's business! Many of our clients are survivors of domestic violence. As our agency remains dedicated to utilization of trauma-informed care, it's vital we take part in efforts...

​ Sunday, October 6th through Saturday, October 12th marks 2019's Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW). If you're wondering why such a week is needed, know that one in five persons will experience mental illness. One in five! We all know someone who has been diagnosed with mental illness. In addition, stigma regarding mental illness aboun...

Stars of Light are not only on the road--they are on the Internet.  In an effort to bust stigma and with the hope of reaching as many people as they can, the group has posted numerous videos on YouTube. If you has access to an electronic device capable of connecting to YouTube, you can peruse Stars of Light videos. "For man...

Reflecting on my childhood, I clearly recall my mom gently rocking me in a rocking chair as I whimpered with the pain of an earache. The soothing movement, combined with her reassuring words, helped ease my misery. I remember my own toddler-sized wooden rocking chair; I can't help but smile when recalling how much I enjoyed rocking in that thing. R...

Several Local Businesses and individuals stepped up to provide sponsorship and donations for the Stepping Stones of Rockford's 50 th Anniversary Celebration, held on May 7, 2019 at the Radisson Hotel in Rockford. "It is our pleasure to recognize our presenting sponsors because of the ongoing, working relationships we have with each of them. The coo...

Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. is proud to announce that it has received a $5000.00 grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Grant Program, with the support from the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin Fund . The grant will help fund the installation of a new privacy fence at our North Main Street Group home.  Enhanced safety, p...

Stars of Light announces its Spring 2019 Event Schedule! "The Stars" are set to tour the area this spring, using theater and creativity to promote recovery, educate the public about mental illness and reduce the stigma that surrounds it. Performances are designed to educate as well as entertain. If you have ever had the opportunity t...

Your heart is racing. Your face is covered with sweat. You're feeling unsure and your hands are shaky. There is an intense feeling of impending doom. This is happening every day, for most of the day. There are no obvious stressors. What on Earth is going on? Anxiety . It may build over time or it might hit unexpectedly and overwhelmingly. Ther...

​ When it comes to mental health treatment in Illinois, a professional a professional is a professional, right? Not so fast! Taking a closer look, you might ask yourself, "what ARE all those letters after my provider's name? What do all those initials mean? It looks like alphabet soup. What does it matter? Does it even matter? All those l...

Let's face it. At one time or another, we've all felt depressed. Whether it's a life loss, a situational stressor, a really lousy week or a case of "the blues," we've experienced feelings and thoughts that qualify as being depressed. This kind of depression is what I like to call "part of life." It's not something that requires medication or therap...

Throughout 2019 , Stepping Stones employees, clients and friends will place "kindness rocks" all around town in celebration of our fiftieth anniversary . In our agency's case, we'll be placing kindness STONES, not rocks! Keep an eye out for our maroon or blue painted stones with positive messages designed to bring encouragement, hope or a smile. In...