Caminar's 2nd Annual Mental Health Symposium

By Angelica Chisolm

A new era of paradigm shift was the theme of Caminar’s 2nd Annual Mental Health Symposium at the historic, renaissance inspired Filoli Gardens on May 25, 2016.  On a beautiful spring afternoon, here sits this magnificent piece of 16-acre property that is a product of northern California’s eclectic style from different elements of architectural eras. 

In attendance at the symposium were representatives from different government agencies, social organizations, medical institutions, school districts, donors, legal and private business sectors, volunteers and advocates.  In full support were Caminar’s Executive Management Team, Board of Directors and employees.  All guests were treated to a late afternoon of fine wine and hors d’oeuvres while enjoying and being amazed by this wondrous and pristine nature.  Volunteer docents acting as tour guides were visibly offering detailed history and background of the picture perfect ambiance. Lead Visitor Services representative Gina Rossi proudly shared how Filoli’s 1,000+ volunteers were generous with their time and talent in keeping up with operations and maintenance.  “We call the ladies working in the spice garden our ‘spice girls’,” Gina quips.  The estate is under the umbrella of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is open to the public.  For a minimal fee, members and guests can enjoy fun events like concerts, exhibits and outdoor activities.  Visit Filoli.org/programs to learn more.

Commencing the Symposium was Caminar CEO Mr. Chip Huggins, who officially welcomed distinguished guests and thanked numerous sponsors.  Special mention to friend of Caminar and world renowned photo journalist Michael Collopy for covering the event.

Caminar’s mission is improving the quality of life for people with mental disabilities.  The goal is to provide avenues of opportunity to live with dignity and independence in the community.  A video of Sheri Gomes’ story was shown as testimony of a once-upon-a-time Caminar client.  She was an addict and homeless, and everything she owned was in her car.  She attempted suicide by jumping out of a five story building and miraculously survived.  Hopeless and depressed, she thought her life was not worth living. With Caminar’s assistance, she turned her life around. Sheri was in attendance at the Symposium, and coincidentally it was also her birthday! She now works as a Job Coach for Caminar, helping people recover from mental illness.  More inspiring stories are available at www.caminar.org.

Leading the introduction was Caminar Medical Director Dr. Jake Treskovich who shared his essential role in working with and treating Caminar clients. He turned over the floor to Moderator and Speaker Steven Adelsheim, M.D., a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science at Stanford University.  Recognized as a national leader, Dr. Adelsheim specializes in the development and implementation of early detection and intervention programs for young adults.  He spoke of programs for depression, anxiety and first episodes of psychosis.  More of his work and expertise are available at https://med.stanford.edu/profiles/steven-adelsheim.

The podium was then turned over to Speaker Leanne Williams Ph.D. to cover the subjects of depression, anxiety and finding tests to help match patients to the best treatment.  She is a Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science also at Stanford University School of Medicine.  Her research created programs on how to change the narrative of mental disorders by deconstructing diagnostic groups using brain imaging, physiological, behavioral and genetic data. Her goal is to characterize dysfunction at the individual person level and to identify biomarkers that will guide prognostic and treatment decisions in real world clinical settings. For more information, see Leanne Williams, Ph.D.

Next Speaker to take the stage was Dr. Stephan Sanders, BMBS, Ph.D.  He gave an informative talk on the topic of Autism, its genetic linkage to Schizophrenia and early detection of both.  He stressed how genetics play an important role in mental illness.  He is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the UCSF School of Medicine.  His research is being used to identify multiple Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) genes to understand the cause of Autism.  More details at http:profiles.ucsf.edu/stephan. sanders.

The last Speaker was Karan Singh, MS, MBA who spoke about the subject of Technology in Behavioral Health Care Delivery.  He is Co-founder of Ginger.io, a technology-enabled mental health provider for people with depression and anxiety.  It is a new kind of behavioral solution approach through technology.  They invented an app (available on Google play and Apple app store) that directly connects individuals to health coaches who will identify needs and make clinical assessments.  Behind every member at Ginger.io, there is a team of data scientists and clinicians to provide care, whenever needed, in a most convenient, personal and private way.  It is the go-to place for high quality, accessible and affordable mental health care.  More information available at https://ginger.io/about.

The finale was a Question and Answer portion where audience opinion was raised on many topics, including the possibility of Federal funding to alleviate support for more research projects; also on the chance that health insurance companies provide a wider coverage for mental illness treatment.

It was truly a night filled with information on cutting edge research and treatment modalities. A female representative from The Department of Rehabilitation, Liezel Taube, expressed how impressed she was on the different approaches and studies made by the speakers. We are fortunate to have limitless technology and unrelenting hands of those who burn lamps to discover the cause and effects of mental health issues. 

At the mid-point of the event, a special recognition was awarded to Caminar patriarch and CEO Mr. Huggins for his generous contributions and dedication to the organization.  Thereby declaring May 25, 2016, Chip Huggins Day. In acknowledgement, Mr. Huggins stated, “Knowledge is the key to mental health.”  Take it from the man who knows his business. Caminar thanks everyone who attended and spoke at this year’s symposium. We can’t wait to see what exciting information is shared at next year’s event!

Watch Sheri’s Story: From Crisis to Independence

At our 2nd Annual Mental Health Symposium back in May of this year, we premiered a very powerful video of one of our former clients. The subject of the film, Sheri, faced serious depression, which led her to engage in self-destructive behavior and attempt to take her own life. Thankfully she survived and was referred to Caminar, where she received services that have helped her in the long road to recovery. Please take a few minutes of your time to watch this very inspirational story.

Caminar for Mental Health and Basecamp Fitness: Miles for Mental Health

On May 21, the Basecamp Fitness family came together across its four locations to help Caminar for Mental Health raise money for Mental Health Awareness month. 

Basecamp Fitness, with locations in Burlingame, San Francisco, Santa Monica and West Hollywood, opened its doors to Caminar and its members biked over 1,400 miles in the name of mental health awareness. 

"We cannot be more grateful to Basecamp Fitness and their members for their hard work and sweat," said Caminar's Director of Development, Carolyn DeVoto Salcido. "As a community-based nonprofit, it's truly heart-warming to see other community entities like Basecamp really open their hearts to our mission." 

[RELATED: Caminar participates in "Road to Recovery 5K"]

In all, the four Basecamp studios combined to raise more than $2,200 for mental health awareness.

Basecamp Fitness is a 35 minute, heart-pumping, muscle-building, fitness experience that builds a healthier person! They are a tight knit, supportive community built around building strong hearts inside and outside their studio.

For more on Basecamp Fitness, click here. 

Solano hosts 5th Annual Cammie Awards

Caminar for Mental Health’s stars shined bright on Friday, May 20 during the 5th Annual Cammie Awards.

“Walk a mile in their shoes” was the theme for the 2016 version of the Solano region’s biggest date on the calendar and over 100 people attended the award ceremony that filled Vallejo’s Foley Cultural Center.

“Cammies are really meant to honor our clients for their achievements in recovery,” said Chris Kughn, Executive Director of Caminar’s Solano Region. “We really build on the courage of the clients that we serve. They get acknowledged for achievements in recovery, achievements in maintaining housing, finding employment, reintegrating into community. This is one day when we formally acknowledge our clients, but everyday our clients show they’re moving into recovery.”

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL COLLOPY

In all, eight clients and three volunteers were honored during the award ceremony that focused on walking a mile in the shoes of those Caminar serves. “It’s really challenging to walk a mile in someone’s shoes,” Kughn said. “The idea is to take today and really think about how challenging it is for many of our clients to get up every single day, go to work, pay their rent — really taking a moment today to acknowledge just how powerful of a drive they have to move forward in recovery.”

[RELATED: Solano brings Art Therapy Inspiration to Vallejo's John F. Kennedy Library]

“I think individuals who struggle with substance and mental health challenges are often isolated,” Kughn said. “They don’t get acknowledged for what they’re doing in their lives even if it feels like it’s not a huge thing. The power of the Cammie Awards is having the opportunity to be witnessed by your community.” 

Caminar repairs bikes for homeless at "Project Homeless Connect"

It is with great pride that Caminar in Butte County participated in April's "Project Homeless Connect." Close to 700 Butte County residents (the majority homeless) attended the event and were given access to food, water, clothing and showers, as well as health screenings, pet care, identification cards and bike repair.

Caminar's Sensible Cyclery was on hand and repaired more than 40 bicycles. 

Information and services for housing, employment, public services, health care, addiction treatment, legal services, contraceptive services and children’s services were also provided.

In her article, Chico Enterprise Record reporter Ashiah Schraga wrote:

Caminar’s Sensible Cyclery vocational program participants Nate Russell and April Grous stayed active across the way, repairing bicycles for free all day.

“It’s really cool that we’re able to do this and help (people) out,” Russell said. “There’s nowhere else that they can go.”

“Some (repairs) are pretty minor, others are major, but we do what we can,” added Grous, a resident of Caminar supportive housing complex Avenida Apartments. “It’s kind of a way for me to show my appreciation, to help others.”

For the complete article, CLICK HERE. 

Caminar's Butte office was in the news earlier this year with a feature piece on the amazing garden on site at Avenidas Apartment. To read that article, click here. 

#Music4MentalHealth brings music, joy to Caminar mental health clients

On Friday, April 15, the Caminar for Mental Health Wellness Recovery Center in Solano county was filled with the sound and joy of music as dozens of people attended the inaugural #Music4MentalHealth concert series.

“The concert gives our mental health clients the healing aspects of live music,” said Kenneth G. Langill, Program Coordinator of the Wellness Recovery Center in the Solano Region and founder of the series. “Music communicates what cannot be stated or said.”

A near capacity crowd of 44 Wellness Recovery Center clients, staff and Full Service Partnership case managers attended the concert headlined by local jazz guitarist Leo Cavanagh, who donated his time and talent. Cavanagh has a 50-year history playing the guitar and his songs delighted the crowd.

“Music helps alleviate anger and loneliness,” Langill said. “It lowers blood pressure, helps with retention and also brings joy depending on the genre of music being played by the musician.”

Langill said last Friday’s concert show is the first of many planned for the Wellness Recovery Center as part of the #Music4MentalHealth series. Those wanting to RSVP for future concerts can contact Kenneth Langill at KennethL@Caminar.org.

“Any of our mental health clients should attend if they enjoy live music to stimulate and engage them,” Langill said. “Music is inclusive and intimate without being intrusive. Music is cathartic and therapeutic as well.”

Community garden at apartments for mentally ill continues to thrive

EXCERPT from CHICO ENTERPRISE-RECORD 

For some, the jewel of the garden is its juicy tomatoes. For others, it’s the crisp kale and red-leaf lettuce.

The community garden at Avenida Apartments on The Esplanade is a peaceful place where residents can learn about fresh, healthy foods and how to grow them.

The facility, operated through a partnership with Butte County Behavioral Health and Caminar, provides housing for those with mental illness and physical or developmental disabilities. Employment opportunities and work training are offered through Sensible Cyclery, an on-site used bike shop, and Pro-Touch, a grounds maintenance and janitorial service.

CLICK HERE TO READ ENTIRE ARTICLE

Peninsula Health Care District Awards Grant to Caminar's Bridges to Wellness

Marie Koerper named Caminar's Volunteer of the Year during grant ceremony.

SAN MATEO, CA- FEBRUARY 2, 2016:  Caminar is pleased to announce that it has received a grant from the Peninsula Health Care District’s (PHCD) Community Grants Program. This grant will support Caminar’s Bridges to Wellness, a program that integrates primary and behavioral health care services while reducing preventable medical conditions and improving health outcomes.

“The PHCD is one of the initial funders and collaborators of Bridges to Wellness,” said Caminar CEO Charles “Chip” Huggins. “They (PHCD) were there when Bridges to Wellness was born so this grant means so much.”

“The Peninsula Health Care District is proud to support local organizations that have made an impact on our community,” said District Board Chair Lawrence W. Cappel, Ph.D. “Our Community Grants Program supports health-focused organizations that bring much needed services to District residents. We are honored to support their important work, which helps us carry out our mission.”

Bridges to Wellness (BTW) offers a unique, integrated approach to primary and behavioral health care services for adults suffering from severe mental illness and chronic health conditions. BTW helps this vulnerable population prevent, reduce and manage their chronic health conditions through the adoption of healthier lifestyle choices related to diet, physical activity, and substance abuse. Being diagnosed with both mental illness and chronic medical conditions, these clients face exceptionally challenging obstacles in managing their mental and physical health. BTW is able to provide the specialized attention necessary to improve clients’ overall health and prevent health issues. The program empowers participants to make positive, life-long changes to improve their overall mental and physical health, and to prevent the onset or worsening of chronic conditions.

“The grant from PHCD is important because individuals with mental illness do not usually receive this type of integrated, preventative maintenance and care,” Huggins said. “So this program has a lot of importance in their lives.” 

At the eighth annual Community Partners Awards Ceremony on January 28, PHCD awarded the 2016 grants to local organizations. In addition, each organization had an opportunity to recognize a key volunteer who helps support their mission and makes a significant contribution to the community. At the ceremony, Caminar recognized Board of Directors member Marie Koerper, who played an integral role in seeing Caminar realize its first ever mental health symposium in May of 2015. 

Koerper is an engaged community mental health advocate and a past President of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) San Mateo County where she served seven years on the board. Marie has served in advisory roles for San Mateo County Community College District and San Francisco State University and is currently a NAMI CA Advisor. She also worked as an Administrator for San Jose Unified School District, Nutrition and Food Services Division. Marie received her MPA, concentration Public Affairs, from Notre Dame de Namur University and B.S. Nutritional Science from San Jose State University. She is a member the Association of Fundraising Professionals Silicon Valley and the World Affairs Council Northern CA.

“I believe volunteers are crucial to our mission,” Huggins said. “They’re critical in advocating for us and our clients. Marie is definitely one of our most dedicated mental health advocates. She was invaluable in helping us organize the mental health symposium where we talk about breakthrough research that can help individuals with mentally illness in our communities.”

Every year, PHCD awards grants to local organizations that address local health priorities and help carry out the vision of the District: that all residents enjoy optimal health through education, prevention, and access to needed health care services. Community Grant recipients are chosen based on a review of local health care needs and the evolving priorities of District communities. In 2016, Caminar is one of 29 local organizations to receive a grant from PHCD, a community investment of $1.9 million. Since 1996, PHCD has invested more than $30 million to local organizations through the Community Grants Program.

Thomas' Journey to Recovery

If you missed hearing Thomas' story at our 51st Anniversary Celebration earlier in November, you are still in luck...you can watch his story here and learn how Caminar's Supported Housing programs enabled him to overcome homelessness and depression and how he is now living a healthy life in a home of his own.  Thomas proves, recovery does happen!

Caminar's First Annual Mental Health Symposium Was a Success

Mental Health Professionals Shared Their Wisdom about New Research, Technology, and the Stigma Associated with Mental Illness

Hillsborough, CA: The evening of May 7th was a memorable one for mental health advocates, friends, staff members, and family members of Caminar who gathered at one of the most picturesque spots on the peninsula, the Carolands Chateau in Hillsborough, California. After touring the chateau and taking in the original client artwork, architecture, and breathtaking views, guests assembled to listen to compelling presentations by mental health professionals from Stanford, UC San Francisco, UC Berkeley and one who has experienced mental illness first hand. 

Among the panelists were Stephen Hinshaw, PhD., Manpreet Singh, M.D., M.S., Vikaas Sohal, M.D., PhD., and Brandon Staglin, a leading mental health advocate who was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 1990. Steven Adelsheim, M.D, moderated the event.

Panelists from l-r: Brandon Staglin, Dr. Manpreet Singh, Dr. Vikaas Sohal, Dr. Stephen Hinshaw, and Moderator Dr. Steven Adelsheim.

Each speaker took a turn at the podium, sharing either personal stories of mental health conditions or the implications of their research and studies in the field. The panelists shared groundbreaking information regarding the scientific and social impacts of mental illness in the community. Despite a wide array of topics presented, there seemed to be a common theme: although we have a long way to go, the apparent increase in public awareness around mental health issues is encouraging. New research has led to discoveries about how the brain works; and advances in technology and medicine have changed the way we diagnose and treat these often debilitating conditions. As one guest mentioned, “It’s great to hear that there are so many other parts of successful treatment than medications alone!”

There were 160 attendees at the sold-out event, and overall feedback was very positive. One guest stated “The panelists were fantastic, and shed light on current studies and researches on mental health.” Another wrote “I felt chills listening to Dr. Hinshaw’s remarks.” Since 1 in 4 Americans will experience a mental health condition at some point in their life, chances are that you or someone you know will be affected. While the information that was shared is promising, it does no good if the stigma attached to mental illness prevents people from seeking help. It is Caminar’s goal, with help from community partners, mental health advocates, and professionals in the field, to shed a light on mental health issues and break down barriers to treatment.

“…we are all hungry for information, hungry to know that research holds hope for many, and on the same page about the importance for reducing the stigma of mental illness.” –Symposium guest.

A video recording of this event will be available to view online on our website by June 1st .  If you missed this event, we plan to host another educational symposium next year during May, Mental Health Awareness Month, and invite you to join us at the next one.

To watch each speaker's presentation, please click here.

Meet Pamela Ward: A Story of Hope

It was 1986 and Pamela Ward was awarded a degree.  Not an ordinary degree but an advanced degree, an M.A. in Education, Administration, and Policy Analysis from prestigious Stanford University.  And Pamela was not your ordinary Stanford graduate student.  An African American single woman, Pamela became pregnant by a heroin addict at age 16 and was raising her two children and her stepson as she mastered the curriculum.  And Pamela did what few have been able to attain – completing her Masters in only 9 months.  Pamela kept going.  She continued her studies and raised her children without any spousal support.    Pamela completed her doctoral coursework at Stanford and then it happened.  Pamela suffered a major bout of depression. It was her first but it would not be her last.

Life growing up wasn't easy for Pamela.  Raised with her siblings by her single mom, Pam was frequently left home alone with her sisters as her mom worked at night.  She recalls, starting at age 4, fending for herself in the evening until her mom returned home.

Pamela loved school and was a gifted student.  Pamela received degrees with Honors from both Merritt Community College and Mills College.   At age 30 Pamela was juggling a life of raising children as a single mom without child support, attending graduate school and maintaining a 3.5 grade average.

Later she worked at several high pressure jobs, teaching in the Community College full-time and working a part-time job with parents in recovery from substance abuse.   Managing motherhood and work was taking its toll on Pamela.  She began to feel extremely tired and her body felt heavy. She found herself recoiling, often spending weeks in bed.  She finally recognized that she needed help.  Her journey toward recovery was about to begin.

The road to wellness for mental health consumers is not always an easy, straight-forward path.  Pamela was no exception to the rule.  In Pamela’s case, she was hospitalized off and on for 8 years, tried taking her own life with pills and alcohol, and unsuccessfully sought out help and assistance from therapists. Pamela also received 12 unsuccessful electric shock treatments.  Pamela recounts that she was too depressed to ask them to please stop shocking her.  Because of the treatments Pamela describes her memory as a “bucket with a hole in it.”

It wasn't until Pamela was introduced to Caminar’s supported housing that her journey to healing, wellness, and a sense of self-respect and dignity began.  Released from the hospital and finding herself homeless, Pamela was admitted to Redwood House, Caminar’s crisis residential facility, a 30 day program offering round-the-clock structured therapeutic and rehabilitative support in a warm and inviting environment. Clients, like Pamela, receive personalized treatment plans and are provided the support they need to navigate through difficult times and rejoin the community. In Pamela’s case it kept her out of bed and interacting with people.

Pamela’s successful journey with Caminar began 17 years ago and she continues on the road to recovery through active participation in several of Caminar’s outpatient programs.  And Pamela’s love of school and teaching has returned.  She presently works as a part-time contractor for The Office of Diversity and Equity, Behavioral Health and Recovery Services at the San Mateo County Medical Center teaching a parenting course.  She also chairs the African American Community Initiative, supervises the Cultural Stipend Intern Program and is on the board for Voices of Recovery.  And thanks to Caminar, the holidays have arrived early for Pamela.  Through Caminar’s assistance, she just moved into an apartment building with an elevator which alleviates stress on her weakened knees.  In addition to providing assistance with her security deposit fees and a new dining set, Caminar will enable Pamela to sleep comfortably and well – Pamela has a new bed!

The Importance of Good Mental Health

Many people who lack mental health issues take their well-being for granted. However, millions of people are affected by mental disorders both moderate and serious in nature. Mental disorders can affect anyone, no matter their background, genetics, culture, race or environment. In many cases, mental health services are required to help people get back to a state of good mental health.

What is Good Mental Health?

Being “mentally healthy” does not necessarily mean the absence of illnesses such as depression, schizophrenia, PTSD, bi-polar disorder, etc. Instead, it is characterized by the following:

• The ability to learn
• The ability to feel, express and manage a range of positive and negative emotions
• The ability to form and maintain good relationships with others
• The ability to cope with and manage change and uncertainty

All of us will have our struggles from time to time, but good mental health helps us bounce back and stay in control when times get tough. Being in a state of good mental health allows us to maintain healthy relationships as well as our physical well-being. Plus, we make solid life choices that are for the betterment of ourselves and those around us.

How Do We Sustain our Mental Health?

There are many ways to sustain a place of positive mental health. While we still may be subject to forces beyond our control, there are means by which we can help keep up our good mental state.

Healthy Diet: A healthy diet does more than control weight. Studies have shown foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and eggs, can positively affect mood.

Physical Activity: There is a large body of evidence that shows one of the best ways to improve mental and emotional well-being is to exercise. Even simple activities such as taking a walk a few times a week can have a great impact on mental health.

Mental Exercise: Did you know that playing games, solving puzzles and using our minds helps to keep engaged and active? They may even help us avoid some of the breakdowns in mental health. Just like the muscles in our body, our mind needs a variety of exercise as well to stay in shape.

Recognizing Mental Health Issues

It can be difficult for us to recognize when we are suffering from a mental health issue. The stigma around being diagnosed with a mental illness can be a large barrier to seeking help. However, early recognition and treatment can lead to successful management and possible recovery from many types of mental health issues.

In fact, studies have shown that the appropriate use of mental health care can significantly reduce the use of medical services. For example, one study revealed that people who were treated for anxiety disorders reduced the number of medical visits by up to 90%. Left untreated, excessive anxiety issues and stress lead to physical ailments such as ulcers, colitis and heart disease.

Seeking Help

The most important thing you can do for your mental health is to seek help when you suspect you might have a psychiatric condition. Services, such as the ones that Caminar provides, can be life-saving for people with serious problems. If you or someone you know are in need of help, please visit our website for information on the services we provide: www.caminar.org

Promoting Positive Mental Health in 2015

The stress and strain of daily life can take a toll on a person’s physical and mental state of being. Maintaining mental health is just as important as maintaining physical health.  It is crucial to learn strategies and activities to help alleviate these stressors in your life. By taking the right steps today, you can keep your good mental health through 2015 and beyond. Here are some activities you can do to keep the mind fresh and active for the good of your mental health.

Take Time Out for You

Focusing too much on work or any single activity can be quite draining after a period of time. So, find ways to take breaks so you can enjoy your hobbies, activities or projects that you enjoy doing. Whether it is taking a walk in the park, playing a game, drawing pictures or just playing with your pets, this is an excellent way to provide yourself with a great mental break.

Exercise & Eat Right

Proper exercise promotes health in all the organs in your body, including the brain. Be sure that you have some type of physical activity that you can engage in daily such as walking, jogging or even dancing. What we put into our bodies can have an effect on the way we feel. Many studies link good eating habits with strong mental health, so be sure to eat proper, balanced meals.

Build Relationships

While it is definitely important to take time out for yourself, it is equally important to have meaningful relationships with others. Whether it is your partner, child, friends or other family members, finding quality time to share positive experiences with them can be beneficial to your mood.

Challenge (But Don’t Overwhelm) Yourself

Set goals, and accomplish them. If you set a large goal, divide that up into smaller parts. Little steps really add up in the long run!

Channel Your Stress

Stress takes both a physical and mental toll, so you will need to know how to deal with stress before it overwhelms you. Take a time out, learn to meditate, exercise, breathe properly, write in a journal or engage in any activity that can break the cycle of stress in your life.

Give Back

Helping others is a very powerful tool in boosting self-esteem. Volunteering at a local non-profit or staying a few extra minutes after class to help a friend with homework will not only positively impact others, it will play a beneficial role in your life as well.

Get Help When You Need It

At some point, all of us need help so don’t be afraid to ask for it. It is during our time of deepest need that getting help may actually save you from making decisions that are not in your best interest. Keep in mind that asking for a little help early may actually save you from asking for more help later.