CTSHealth

12/23/2025

Because of the generosity of our sponsors and the dedication of our incredible staff, this holiday season is brighter for the children in all of our programs. Thank you for making Angel Tree 2025 such a special reminder of hope, joy, and community.
Emanuel Baptist Church
Joe Gibbs Racing
Megan Corp
Tutor Time
QCFit Northlake

12/22/2025

The holiday season is often painted as a time of celebration, joy, and togetherness. But for many people, the end of December brings a very different experience—one filled with stress, sadness, loneliness, or emotional exhaustion. This feeling, commonly known as the “holiday blues,” is more common than most of us realize.

In December, as the world rushes to wrap up the year, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone feels festive—and that struggling during this season doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It simply means you’re human.

This week's blog describes the many emotions we feel during the holidays, why you may be feeling them, and how to care for your mental health during this time of year.

Explore expert advice, practical tips, and valuable insights on mental health, wellness, therapy, and self-care from the CTSHealth blog. Check out our latest blog post, "Understanding the Holiday Blues".

12/17/2025

Practicing self-compassion is important for mental health because it reduces stress and self-criticism, which helps prevent burnout, anxiety, and depression. When you respond to yourself with kindness instead of judgment, your nervous system can calm down, making it easier to cope with challenges, regulate emotions, and build resilience over time.

Here are some ways to practice self-compassion:

-Talk to yourself the way you would talk to a close friend
-Notice self-criticism and gently replace it with kindness
-Remember: struggling does not mean you’re failing
-Allow yourself to be human—mistakes are part of growth
-Take breaks without guilt when your mind or body needs rest
-Celebrate small wins, not just big milestones
--Set realistic expectations instead of impossible standards
Practice patience with your healing—it’s not linear

12/15/2025

As we move into the final weeks of the year, many people reflect on their health—both physical and mental. One area where these two worlds meet powerfully is sports. Whether it's youth sports, CrossFit, college athletics, or community recreation, movement can shape not only our bodies but also our minds.

From confidence to connection, routine to resilience, sports can play a life-changing role in mental well-being. This week, December 15–19th, is an ideal time to highlight how athletic participation supports mental health—and how we can create healthier athletic environments for everyone.

Explore expert advice, practical tips, and valuable insights on mental health, wellness, therapy, and self-care from the CTSHealth blog. Check out our latest blog post, "Sports & Mental Health".

12/12/2025

Our CTSHealth Executive Team would like to give a huge shoutout to several team members who have truly been going the extra mile. Your dedication, hard work, and commitment are not only noticed — they’re felt across the organization.

Your impact is seen by leadership, appreciated by your peers, and reflected in the lives of those we serve.

Tina H, Payroll - Corporate
Silvia G, Marketing - NC
Nicole S, UM - Corporate
Luketia W, UM - Corporate
April H, Billing - Corporate
Vonda B, Foster Care - NC
Holly L, Finance - Corporate
Laila E, Foster Care - NC

12/11/2025

Shoes on shoes on shoes! A massive thanks to QCFit Northlake for gifting our CTSHealth youth with brand-new tennis shoes. You're the definition of showing up for your community!

12/09/2025

Cooper's Challenge this week is: Prioritize Sleep!

-Sleep is your brain’s nightly reset, helping regulate emotions and stress.
-Quality rest improves mood, focus, and resilience throughout the day.
-Lack of sleep increases anxiety, irritability, and burnout risk.
-Consistent sleep supports hormone balance, which directly affects mental health.
-Rest strengthens your ability to make decisions and cope with challenges.
-Even one good night of sleep can boost energy, clarity, and patience.
-Prioritizing sleep is one of the simplest, most accessible ways to support overall well-being.

12/08/2025

Every December, we take intentional time to honor and uplift the transgender community—celebrating identity, recognizing resilience, and acknowledging the unique challenges many transgender individuals face. Transgender Awareness is not just about visibility; it's about understanding, advocacy, and mental well-being.

Transgender individuals often face stressors that go far beyond typical daily challenges. These stressors significantly impact mental health.

Explore expert advice, practical tips, and valuable insights on mental health, wellness, therapy, and self-care from the CTSHealth blog. Check out our latest blog post, "Transgender Awareness & Mental Health".

12/05/2025

Our CTSHealth Executive Team would like to give a huge shoutout to several team members who have truly been going the extra mile. Your dedication, hard work, and commitment are not only noticed — they’re felt across the organization.

Your impact is seen by leadership, appreciated by your peers, and reflected in the lives of those we serve.

Shan B, Clinical Director – NC
Misty B, Clinical Director – SC
Tiffany H, State Director – SC
Linda M, State Director – IL
Solomon M, Licensing Specialist, Foster Care – NC
Randall M, Compliance Manager – Corporate
Chioma O, Regional Human Resource Director – IL
Rae P, Medical Records, Foster Care – NC

12/04/2025

Starting January 2026, our North Central Avenue Chicago team will be settling into a new office — just a short distance away. We know even small changes can feel big, but the support, care, and connection you’ve grown to trust aren’t changing at all.

This new space gives us room to grow, breathe, and continue serving you with excellence. We can’t wait to welcome you!

12/03/2025

December 3rd is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. As we honor this day, let’s move beyond awareness into action. Mental health and disability inclusion go hand in hand—when we remove barriers, provide support, and build accessible environments, we help people thrive.

This week and beyond, let’s champion:

Dignity
Autonomy
Inclusion
Accessibility
Compassion
Advocacy

Every person deserves to live in a world where they feel seen, valued, and supported. When we uplift individuals with disabilities, we uplift entire communities.

12/02/2025

Just a reminder... Winter Distro: A Celebration of the Winter Season is happening this Friday, December 5th! This event will be held at our Southside location from 12pm to 5pm. For more information and to RSVP, please reach out to Judy Munoz at jmunoz@ctshealth.org or call 224-603-1254.