The McLean Hospital Division of Psychotic Disorders invites you to join Dr. Julie M. McCarthy, PhD and colleagues for a series of educational webinars for family members and friends of a loved one navigating mental health recovery for psychosis, substance use, depression, anxiety, and more. The webinars will share skills from evidence-based approaches and presentations… Continue reading An Invitation from McLean Hospital –
Another scathing report about Bridgewater State Hospital Disabiltiy Law Center just released their Feb. 6, 2025 report and the conditions at Bridgewater State Hospital (BSH) have NOT improved. The report states: "The Commonwealth must stop waiting for change that will never come and protect BSH Persons Served (PS), a population widely recognized as including individuals… Continue reading Disability Law Center Finds Unlawful, Violent Practices and Unsafe Environmental Conditions Persist at Bridgewater State Hospital
At FFIMI, we are committed to learning from global approaches that prioritize dignity, mental health, and rehabilitation for incarcerated individuals. The article we’re sharing today highlights the progressive Nordic prison model, which emphasizes humane treatment and rehabilitation—an approach that stands in stark contrast to the punitive conditions found in many U.S. prisons, especially for those… Continue reading Green Space in Prison: Rehabilitation through Beautification
By Ernest Nate Benjamin Hello, friends, family, and supporters of Family & Friends of Individuals with Mental Illness (FFIMI). I wanted to share another piece for the FFIMI blog. I wrote to the powers that be a while ago, hoping to secure funding and training for clinicians to learn about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing… Continue reading From Trauma to Healing: Advocating for EMDR in Prisons
Exciting. Exhilarating. Energizing. This is the enthusiastic response of Sheriff Donna Buckley, the first female sheriff ever elected to Barnstable County, describing her mission to serve the community, families, and incarcerated individuals. She also carries a sense of solemn responsibility with a forward-thinking vision and a strong determination to ‘get it done’. Her goals are… Continue reading A Mission of Hope
Two significant bills are currently progressing through the Massachusetts legislative process, and we implore you to extend your support. These bills are essential for transferring Bridgewater State Hospital from the jurisdiction of the Department of Correction to the Department of Mental Health, ensuring appropriate care for individuals in need of mental health services. FFIMI stands… Continue reading Your crucial support is needed to advocate for transferring Bridgewater State Hospital to the Department of Mental Health, where it rightfully belongs
A Call to Oppose Wellpath's Contract Renewal in Massachusetts FFIMI commends Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey for addressing Wellpath's deficiencies as the Healthcare Provider for Massachusetts prisons. In a joint letter, the senators emphasized urgent improvements needed in the current healthcare system. Please refer to Senator Markey's press release here: Senators Markey, Warren, Durbin, Ossoff, Lawmakers… Continue reading Advocating for Improved Mental Health Services in Massachusetts Prisons: FFIMI Applauds Senators Warren and Markey’s Efforts
Massachusetts becomes fifth state in nation to make prison calls free
This summer has been a productive month of advocacy for the Family and Friends of Individuals with Mental Illness. Several of our members participated in two Massachusetts legislative hearings in support of the following bills: Representative Ruth Balser’s bill H.2985 An Act transferring Bridgewater State Hospital from the Department of Correction to the Department of… Continue reading FFIMI Supports Two Important Legislative Bills
We share the following anonymous, true story to shed light on the culture inside the walls of correctional institutions. It exemplifies the continuous trauma that individuals endure in the system. It must change and we will continue to speak on behalf of those who have no voice. It feels good to have my hands in… Continue reading The Price of a Mint Leaf: A Day in the Life on the Inside
Family and Friends of Individuals with Mental Illness ~ Advocating for those who are Justice Involved 