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The MEND program is designed to support patients and their families in maintaining or regaining emotional health and balance during a significant medical illness or treatment.

Our therapists and clinicians provide a caring, nurturing environment for families during organ transplantation, diabetes and chemotherapy. We also work with those coping with asthma, cystic fibrosis, kidney disease, seizures and other chronic illnesses.   

Program Options

  • MEND Program for Children with Chronic Illness 
  • MEND Program for Medically Complex Adults 

PROGRAM FOCUS

Anxiety

We address fears and worries regarding illness, getting sick again, life expectancy, reaching academic/career goals and possible social limitations.

Depression

We talk about adjusting to a life with limitations, depression over missed activities and feelings of guilt. For children, we address sadness over missing school, sports and play time. 

Body Image

We discuss adjusting to bodily changes due to medication side effects and scars from surgery. We also talk about the body image challenges of medical devices and developmental limits.

Self-Esteem

For children, not being like other kids impacts self-esteem — and illness, medications, diet and physical restrictions can be isolating at any age. We give patients tools to cope with this. 

Family Issues

We guide families through the challenges of rebellion and resistance to medical regimens. We also talk about the stress, fears and guilt that parents and loved ones often feel.  

Grief and Loss

Patients and their families are supported as they grieve the loss of a healthy body while accepting new realities for activity and longevity.  

Compliance

This covers the importance of adhering to the patient’s prescribed medication management, diet or physical restrictions and exercise recommendations. 

Quick Facts

60%
Reduction in negative effects of chronic illness
80%
Reduction in missed days of school and work
24
Sessions to complete the program

Stress and Physical Health 

Our research shows that stress impacts more than mental health. It can also have a substantial effect on physical well-being, including heart health and the immune system. The MEND program aims to provide supportive solutions for reducing stress and reversing the damage it can do to patients and families. By addressing the stress of the illness, we promote an environment of healing. 

MEND Outpatient Program Schedule

MEND is conducted as an intensive outpatient program. Patients attend 24 sessions over a six- to eight-week period; families are asked to plan for appointments lasting two to three hours. For children in the program, parents and siblings are asked to participate. 

  • Youth program sessions: Monday through Thursday, 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Adult program sessions: Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • We do not accept walk-ins. To request a MEND program assessment, call 909-558-9556
  • Phone hours: Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

FEATURED NEWS

An Unexpected Connection

An Unexpected Connection

The link between stress and physical health is greater than most people realize. Our research reveals the short and long-term effects of this unexpected connection.
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