NNews January 2025

18 January 2025 Attitudes In Reverse® Saves Lives through Innovative Educational Programs and Partnerships with Dogs (continued from page 17) “We have therapy dogs at every event and presentation because the conversations can be triggering. Dogs help youth decompress and express their feelings,” Tricia explained. “In research conducted by The College of New Jersey’s TAPLab, students said that the dogs are an extremely enjoyable part of the program. This leads to greater retention of thematerial that AIR teaches. This datamakes the ComingUp for AIR programevidence-based,” she added. In fact, another unique aspect of this program is that it actively encourages help-seeking behaviors. This approach leads to AIR’s success. The presentations educate and create a safe space for students and other individuals who are struggling. AIR understands the importance of educating parents, familymembers, and school professionals, as well as students. When these essential individuals in people’s lives can identify symptoms of mental health disorders, they can intervene and help get students and family members the proper treatment and support they need. “If I stopped tomorrow, I feel like I’ve done a lot, that I changed the world for the better. But, I don’t plan on stopping tomorrow,” Tricia remarked. If you or someone you know wishes to donate legacy or VIP shoes with an inspirational quote, please email Tricia at tricia@air.ngo . All donated shoes will be included in the the Open AIR event in May.” To learnmore about AIR, please visit air.ngo . “ The AIR In Their Shoes® display is a favorite for both students and staff because it sends such a powerful message: You never know who around you is suffering. The clear takeaway is to be kind to all and to be supportive of those struggling, without judgment. In these uncertain times, an attitude of kindness and empathy is more important than ever... Last but not least: the therapy dogs!!! They are a real treat, and provide much needed comfort, especially after seeing such a moving exhibit. ” AdrianaMatt Student Life and Leadership, Mercer County Community College The education that AIR provides also reverses damaging, false narratives surrounding mental health. With more education and informational resources, as well as services, individuals will more likely understand that talking about suicide does not increase the risk of suicide. For example, AIR’s powerful In Their Shoes® exhibit features legacy shoes from those who have lost their battle, as well as VIP shoes fromwell-known people in themental health and entertainment fields with inspirational quotes to encourage those struggling to persevere in their efforts to overcome mental health challenges. The exhibit travels across New Jersey, inspiring hope. For AIR, education continues past the classrooms and school buildings at community functions: the Taste of Hope, a formal event to recognize mental health heroes and raise funds to support AIR that also features a portion of the In Their Shoes exhibit; and theMiki and Friends Open AIR event, which brings the community together to build more awareness of and support for AIR’s mission. These are just two ways that the community can get involved with AIR.