Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities: What You Should Know

Understanding Mental Health in the Disability Community

Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month calls us to shine a light on the importance of emotional well-being—for ourselves, our families, and our communities. At Community Support Network (CSN), we know that mental health is essential to living a full, connected life. And we also know that for adults with developmental disabilities, mental health support is too often overlooked.

Adults with developmental disabilities experience mental health challenges—like anxiety, depression, and trauma-related stress—at higher rates than the general population. Yet these challenges can go unnoticed or unaddressed because of systemic gaps in care, lack of accessible services, and a shortage of providers trained to meet their unique needs.

Understanding the Barriers

Sometimes, what looks like “behavior” is actually a person’s way of expressing pain, confusion, or emotional distress. Communication differences can make it harder for individuals to describe what they’re feeling. And too often, symptoms of mental health conditions are mistaken as “just part of the disability”—a harmful form of misdiagnosis known as diagnostic overshadowing.

As a result, people with developmental disabilities may not get the care they need—or they may receive treatment that isn’t responsive to who they are and how they thrive. That’s why it’s so important for mental health professionals, families, and community support systems to be equipped with tools to listen, adapt, and advocate.

Building a More Inclusive System

Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to push for better systems, better access, and greater inclusion. That means:

• Expanding mental health services that are accessible, inclusive, and trauma-informed

• Supporting caregivers and families who are often the first to notice when something’s not right

• Increasing training for providers so they are equipped to recognize and respond to mental health needs in people with developmental disabilities

• Raising public awareness to reduce stigma and increase understanding

  
  

Mental health is for everyone—and everyone means everyone.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

Whether you're an individual seeking support or a caregiver who’s concerned, here are resources available in Wisconsin and beyond:

📞 Crisis & Support Hotlines

• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 Available 24/7 for mental health support, including for people with disabilities. Text or call.

• WI Department of Health Services – 24/7 Mental Health Support: Find local crisis lines by county: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/crisis/index.htm

• HOPELINE Text Service (Wisconsin): Text HOPELINE to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

• NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) Provides information, support, and referrals for individuals and families.

🧰 Additional Resources & Support

• The Arc Wisconsin Advocacy, support, and information for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. https://arcwi.org

• Disability Rights Wisconsin Provides advocacy and legal support for people with disabilities across the state. https://disabilityrightswi.org

• Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin Offers community support, events, and resources for autistic individuals and families. https://www.autismsouthcentral.org

• NAMI Wisconsin (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Offers peer support groups, education, and advocacy resources. https://namiwisconsin.org

• ABLE National Resource Center Financial tools and information to support mental and physical wellness for people with disabilities. https://www.ablenrc.org

If you're part of someone’s support system—family, friend, direct support professional, caregiver—you can play a vital role in noticing early signs, creating space to talk about feelings, and connecting people to help.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s honor the dignity and humanity of adults with developmental disabilities by making sure their mental health is seen, respected, and supported.

Spring 2025 NEWSLETTER

• Important Dates and Upcoming Events

• Celebrating Our Volunteers and Advocating for Autism Awareness

• Welcome, Ronnie, to the CSN Volunteer Team

• Enrichment: Celebrating Creativity and Kindness at CSN

• Vocational: Celebrating a New Beginning

• Wellness Through Healthy Eating

• Thank you for Supporting Developmental Disability Awareness Month

• Make Your Voice Heard

• Upcoming Events

• Spring Recipes

• Make a Difference

  
  

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Important Dates and Upcoming Events

CSN Closed 

Friday, April 18

Monday, May 26

Events

 Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop: June 2 - July 28

Virtual Silent Auction: July 9 - 10

Learn more about these Upcoming Events Below, at VisitCSN.org/events or follow us on Facebook & Instagram

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Celebrating Our Volunteers and Advocating for Autism Awareness

April is a Month of Appreciation and Advocacy

April is a special time for our Community Support Network (CSN) family. This month, we celebrate National Volunteer Month and National Autism Awareness Month—two occasions that highlight the heart of our mission: supporting adults with developmental disabilities through compassion, advocacy, and community engagement.

Honoring Our Volunteers

National Volunteer Month gives us the opportunity to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible individuals who give their time, energy, and hearts to CSN. Our volunteers are more than just helpers; they are friends, mentors, and advocates who make a meaningful impact on the lives of the people we support. Whether they assist with activities, provide companionship, or help with daily tasks, their generosity creates a more inclusive and empowering world for individuals with developmental disabilities.

This month, we extend our deepest gratitude to each and every volunteer who has dedicated their time to CSN. Your kindness and commitment bring joy and opportunities to our community. We couldn’t do this work without you!

Advocating for Autism Awareness

April is also National Autism Awareness Month, a time to promote understanding, acceptance, and advocacy for individuals on the autism spectrum. Many of the individuals we serve at CSN are on the autism spectrum, and we are proud to support them in living fulfilling and independent lives.

Awareness is just the beginning—true inclusion comes from education, empathy, and action. We encourage everyone to take this month to learn more about autism, challenge misconceptions, and foster environments where all individuals feel valued and respected. By working together, we can create a community that embraces neurodiversity and celebrates the unique strengths of each person.

Get Involved

Looking for ways to make a difference? Whether you are interested in volunteering, advocating, or simply learning more, there are many ways to support CSN and the individuals we serve. Visit our website or reach out to us to learn more about opportunities to get involved.

This April, let’s celebrate our volunteers and champion autism awareness together. Thank you for being a part of the CSN community—your support makes all the difference!

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Welcome, Ronnie, to the CSN Volunteer Team!

Community Support Network is thrilled to welcome Ronnie, a new volunteer joining us this semester! Ronnie is a junior at UW-Madison, majoring in Human Development, and has chosen CSN as part of her community-based learning experience.

Ronnie is passionate about understanding different developmental needs and finding ways to promote independence and well-being for individuals in our community. She hopes to use her experience at CSN to deepen her knowledge and prepare for a future career working with children and families.

Outside of her studies, Ronnie stays busy as a starting guard for UW-Madison’s women’s basketball team. Whether she’s on the court or in the classroom, she brings dedication, teamwork, and a strong desire to make a difference.

We are excited to have Ronnie on board and look forward to the impact she will make at CSN. If you see her around, be sure to say hello and welcome her to the team!

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Celebrating Creativity and Kindness at CSN

At CSN, we love finding creative ways to express ourselves and build a stronger, kinder community. Recently, we engaged in two wonderful activities that showcased both our artistic talents and our commitment to spreading kindness.

Sculpting Our Creativity

Our recent sculpture project was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to explore their artistic side. We started with pre-made structures—each a unique shape—created by securing an untangled hanger to a wooden base. These were then wrapped in nylons and coated in plaster, forming a solid, sculptural foundation. The real magic happened when we brought them to life with paint, allowing our creativity to shine through vibrant colors and unique designs. This hands-on experience was not only a fun way to express ourselves but also a reminder that art is a powerful tool for self-expression and imagination.

A Sprinkle of Kindness

Kindness is at the heart of everything we do at CSN, and our "Sprinkle of Kindness" activity was a beautiful representation of that. Each participant colored a segment of a larger picture, and when all the pieces were put together, they revealed a colorful background of sprinkles with the uplifting message: "Sprinkle Kindness Like Confetti." This collaborative artwork now serves as a daily reminder of the incredible things we can achieve when we work together and the impact that small acts of kindness can have on those around us. Like confetti, kindness spreads joy, strengthens our community, and makes the world a brighter place.

Both of these activities highlight the creativity and compassion that make CSN such a special place. We look forward to more opportunities to create, connect, and spread kindness together!

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Celebrating a New Beginning 

Congratulations to Our Vocational Client and Thank You to Flix Brewhouse!

We are thrilled to share some exciting news—one of our vocational clients has started a new job at Flix Brewhouse in Madison! This milestone is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and we couldn’t be prouder.

We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the team at Flix Brewhouse for their patience, assistance, and commitment to supported employment. Their willingness to provide guidance and create an inclusive work environment makes all the difference. By fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, they are not only helping individuals thrive but also strengthening our community as a whole.

Supported employment is most successful when businesses partner with organizations like ours to create opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Flix Brewhouse’s support demonstrates the power of inclusive hiring and the positive impact it has on both employees and employers.

If your business is interested in joining this effort and discovering the benefits of hiring individuals with diverse abilities, we’d love to connect! Contact us to learn more about how we can support you in creating a more inclusive workforce.

Please join us in congratulating our vocational client on this wonderful achievement and in thanking Flix Brewhouse for their commitment to building a diverse and welcoming workplace!

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Wellness Through Healthy Eating

Simple Steps for a Healthier You

Wellness starts with what we put on our plates. Eating nutritious foods fuels our bodies, supports our mental health, and helps us feel our best. But healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated! With a few simple choices, anyone can create meals that are both affordable and nutritious.

At Community Support Network (CSN), we encourage healthy habits through our Friday Cooking Class, where participants learn to prepare easy, balanced meals—no oven required! Each week, we focus on simple, delicious recipes using fresh, budget-friendly ingredients. Cooking together is not only a great way to build confidence in the kitchen but also a fun way to connect with others!

Want to bring more wellness into your meals? Try these simple tips: 

🍎 Plan Ahead: Make a grocery list with healthy staples like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. 

🥦 Keep It Simple: Easy meals like salads, wraps, or yogurt parfaits are nutritious and require little preparation. 

💧 Stay Hydrated: Drinking water instead of sugary drinks is an easy way to support overall health. 

🍽 Portion Wisely: Eating balanced meals with the right mix of proteins, healthy fats, and carbs keeps energy levels steady.

Stay well, stay inspired, and keep cooking!

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Thank You for Supporting Developmental Disability Awareness Month!

As Developmental Disability Awareness Month 2025 has come to a close, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Community Support Network (CSN). Whether you made a financial donation, shared our message, or took the time to listen to “our stories,” your support makes a lasting impact.

Though March has ended, our stories continue. The voices and experiences of the individuals we serve are not limited to one month, and we invite you to keep listening. Stay connected with us on social media and our YouTube channel, where we will continue to share powerful stories that highlight the resilience, talents, and achievements of our community.

Your generosity helps ensure that CSN can keep providing essential services and amplifying the voices of people with disabilities. Thank you for standing with us—not just in March, but all year long.

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Make Your Voice Heard 

Protect Medicaid for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Medicaid is a lifeline for adults with developmental disabilities, providing essential healthcare, support services, and community programs that enable individuals to live with dignity and independence. However, recent funding cuts threaten these vital services, putting thousands at risk of losing the care they rely on every day. Now, more than ever, we need to raise our voices and advocate for the funding and support our community needs.

Why Advocacy Matters

Here at Community Support Network (CSN), we have seen firsthand how Medicaid-funded services empower individuals with developmental disabilities. These services ensure access to residential support, vocational training, and healthcare. Reducing funding means fewer resources for essential programs, longer wait times, and increased strain on families and caregivers. Your voice can help prevent these cuts and ensure continued support.

How You Can Make a Difference

Speaking up can create real change. Here’s how you can make your voice heard and protect Medicaid services:

• Contact Your Representatives – Call or email state and federal lawmakers to express the importance of Medicaid funding for individuals with developmental disabilities. Even a short message can have an impact. Not sure who your representatives are? Look it up here.

• Attend Advocacy Events – Join rallies, town halls, or community meetings where policymakers discuss healthcare and disability services.

• Share Your Story – Personal stories are powerful. If you or a loved one benefit from Medicaid, consider sharing your experience with elected officials, the media, or social networks to raise awareness.

• Engage on Social Media – Follow and amplify the messages of organizations like CSN and disability advocacy groups. Use hashtags, tag legislators, and spread awareness online.

• Volunteer or Donate – Support CSN’s advocacy efforts by contributing time or resources to help sustain our mission.

Your Voice Matters

Advocacy is a powerful tool for protecting the rights and services that individuals with developmental disabilities rely on. By speaking out, you help ensure that Medicaid remains a strong, supportive program for those who need it most.

Join us in making a difference.

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Upcoming Events

Find Your Voice: Spring 2025 Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop

Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. If you're a family or community caregiver, you deserve a space to reflect, process, and find support. That’s why we invite you to join our Spring 2025 Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop—a free, six-session series designed to help you explore the power of writing for self-reflection and self-compassion.

This workshop will provide a welcoming and supportive environment where caregivers can share their experiences through guided writing exercises. No prior writing experience is necessary—just a willingness to put pen to paper and connect with others who understand the caregiving journey.

✨ Secure Your Spot! ✨Register by May 19 to join this transformative experience. Register Here

Take this opportunity to nurture yourself, process your experiences, and connect with a community that cares. We look forward to writing with you!

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Save the Date: CSN’s Virtual Silent Auction is Coming This July!

Join us on July 9 - 10 for an exciting opportunity to support Community Support Network (CSN) at our Virtual Silent Auction! Your participation will help us continue our mission of empowering individuals with disabilities in Madison.

Bid on fantastic items from local businesses, unique experiences, and one-of-a-kind treasures—all from the comfort of your home! Every bid makes a difference, directly supporting CSN’s vital programs and services.

Stay tuned for more details, including featured items and how to participate. In the meantime, mark your calendars and get ready to bid for a great cause!

For updates, follow us on social media and visit our website.

Thank you for being a part of our community—we can’t wait to see you online in July!

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Spring Recipes

Ramen Salad

Ingredients

• 1 Package Ramen Noodles

• ⅔ C Sliced Almonds

• 2 Tbsp Sesame Seeds

• 1 Bag Coleslaw Mix

• 1 ½ C Shelled Frozen Edamame (Thawed)

• 1 C Shredded Carrots

• 4 Scallions (Thinly Sliced, White & Green Parts)

• ½ C Mandarin Orange Segments in Light Syrup (Drained & Rinsed)

Dressing

• ¼ C White Vinegar

• 3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• 2 Tbsp Honey

• 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce

• ¼ tsp Salt

• ¼ tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

1. Toast the ramen noodles, almonds, & sesame seeds

   1. Air Fryer Instructions

      1. Crumble ramen noodles in the basket and add almonds. Lightly spray with cooking oil and cook at 250 degrees F for 5 minutes - shaking every few minutes to ensure even cooking. 

      2. Add sesame seeds and cook for an additional 2 minutes, shaking in between.

2. Wash and prepare the vegetables.

3. Combine the dressing ingredients into a small bowl and briskly whisk them together until well combined.

4. In a serving bowl, toss together the coleslaw, edamame, carrots, & scallions.

5. Add the noodle/almond/sesame seed mixture to the bowl and toss again.

6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

7. Sprinkle the mandarin oranges over the salad.

8. Serve & Enjoy!

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Garden Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

• 16 oz Penne Pasta

• ¼ C Pine Nuts

• 4 tsp Minced Garlic

• 2 C Basil, Packed

• ½ C Olive Oil

• ½ C Fresh Grated Parmesan (plus more for garnish)

• 1 tsp Salt

• 1 tsp Pepper

• Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta

   1. Instant Pot Instructions

      1. Combine 1 pound penne pasta, 4 cups water, and 2 teaspoons salt in the Instant Pot and pressure cook on high for five minutes.  Do a quick release, then add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pasta to keep it from sticking.

2. Roast pine nuts

   1. Air Fryer Instructions

      1. Add pine nuts to the air fryer and cook at 300 degrees F for 2-3 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through.  Pine nuts are done when they are toasted and golden on all sides and you begin smelling a nutty aroma.

3. Let the pine nuts cool slightly, then add them to a blender/food processor along with the garlic and basil, process until as smooth as possible.

4. With the blender/food processor running, drizzle in the olive oil and then let process for another 10-20 seconds.

5. Place the mixture into a bowl, then stir in the grated parmesan and salt/pepper.

6. Place the cooked pasta in a large bowl, then add in the pesto and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

7. Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and parsley for garnish.

8. Enjoy!

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Frozen Yogurt Bark

Ingredients

• 3 C Whole Milk Vanilla Yogurt

• 1 C Strawberries

• ½ C Blueberries

• ½ C Granola

• ¼ C Chocolate Chips

Instructions

1. Spread yogurt onto a parchment-lined baking sheet until it is about ¼ to ½ inch thick.

2. Clean & chop the strawberries & sprinkle them over the yogurt.

3. Clean the blueberries and sprinkle them over the yogurt.

4. Sprinkle the remaining ingredients over the yogurt.

5. Using a spoon or spatula, press the ingredients down to ensure they are touching the yogurt.

6. Freeze for about 4 hours or until the yogurt is hard.

7. Enjoy!

   
   

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Make a Difference

Join Our Board of Directors

​Are you passionate about supporting individuals with developmental disabilities? We're searching for dedicated individuals to join our Board of Directors at Community Support Network (CSN).  As a board member, you'll attend one-hour monthly meetings, typically held on the second Tuesday of each month, virtually or in person. Your role will involve active participation in discussions, guiding strategic planning and program monitoring, overseeing financial matters, and serving as an ambassador for our organization in the community. Directors and Officers Liability Insurance coverage is provided to protect board members. If you're committed to our mission and eager to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you. Please contact Caroline Bowers for more information at caroline.bowers@visitcsn.org. Your involvement as a board member will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our organization and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.

Shop for a Cause!

Visit our Online Shop for a variety of must-have items! Every purchase helps raise funds and spread awareness for our mission. By wearing our gear, you’re not only supporting a great cause but also promoting inclusion and empowerment for adults with developmental disabilities. Thank you for being a part of our community and making a difference!

Ways to Donate

• Financial Donation - Financial donations are always appreciated! Checks can be mailed to CSN or donate directly on our website - VisitCSN.org

• ShopRaise - Shop online using ShopRaise and your purchases from eligible retailers will help support CSN

• Volunteer - Share a hobby or talent with us. We would love to learn something new from you!

• Supplies - Contact us if you have supplies to donate and we’ll let you know what we are in need of.

Hire Us!

Hire CSN clients to work at your company. Email Info@VisitCSN.org for more information.

Host an Art Gallery Event!

Learn about our clients and their lives through art. Host our art gallery at your business for a month and experience their stories and talents. Email Info@VisitCSN.org for more information.

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Disability Advocacy Day 2025: A Virtual Gathering

With the future of disability services on the line, CSN was proud to take part in Disability

Advocacy Day 2025. Held during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, this powerful annual event—hosted by the Survival Coalition of Wisconsin, amplifies the voices of individuals with disabilities, bringing self-advocates, caregivers, and supporters together to engage with legislators on critical issues affecting the disability community.

A Call to Be a Champion for Inclusion

This year, the event shifted from an in-person gathering at the State Capitol to a virtual format to eliminate transportation barriers and ensure broader participation. Unfortunately, one of the very issues advocates hoped to address—transportation challenges—was also why many could not attend in person. Changes in Wisconsin’s long-term care disability coverage over the past seven years have made arranging transportation for people with disabilities increasingly difficult. Traveling across the city, let alone the state, to reach the Capitol has become a significant hurdle that highlights the urgent need for policy change.

A United Voice for Change

At CSN, we were honored to stand alongside these passionate advocates and work with other dedicated service providers like MARC and the Waisman Center. CSN’s Executive Director, Caroline Bowers, and Director of Community Engagement, Kristen Wells, were able to meet with Francesa Hong (WI Assembly District 76) and Kelda Roys’ (WI Senate District 26) office to highlight the incredible stories of this population and how important it is for individuals with disabilities to participate in community life.

Why Medicaid Matters

A key focus of the day was Medicaid, as debates continue over who relies on it, what it covers, and its necessity. This virtual gathering provided a vital platform for self-advocates to share powerful stories about the life-changing impact of Medicaid-funded services. They highlighted the opportunities it provides—from supported employment, art programs, and recreation activities to essential caregiving support, wheelchairs, and feeding devices. Parents spoke candidly about how these services enable their children with disabilities to thrive—and how funding cuts could force them to leave their jobs, relocate, or face overwhelming hardship.

According to KFF’s Medicaid in Wisconsin factsheet, 18% of Wisconsin’s population—approximately 1.3 million people—receives services through Medicaid? For many, these services are lifelines, covering the cost of essential needs like:

 ✅ Caregivers 

✅ Wheelchairs and communication devices 

✅ Medical visits and therapies 

✅ Food and other daily necessities

Cuts to Medicaid would not only jeopardize the health and independence of these 1.3 million individuals—it would also profoundly impact families, caregivers, and service providers who play a critical role in supporting their well-being.

The Fight Isn’t Over—Here’s How You Can Help

Disability Advocacy Day was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite for a common cause—but the work is far from over. You can be a champion for inclusion by taking action today:

✅ Contact Your Representatives – Your voice matters. Call, write a letter, or schedule a meeting to share your story and advocate for disability rights. Unsure who your representatives are? Find them HERE.

🗳️ Vote – A critical election is coming up on April 1st, and your vote can make a difference. To find your polling place, register to vote, and learn who is on your ballot, visit My Vote Wisconsin.

📹 Hear Directly from the People We Support - At CSN, we believe that personal stories are the most powerful tool for advocacy. That’s why we’re proud to share "Our Stories"—a video series where CSN clients share their journeys, experiences, and the impact of the services they receive. These stories bring to life the importance of programs like Medicaid and the need to protect and expand access to essential services. Watch "Our Stories"

💙 Donate to CSN – Your support helps us continue providing essential services that empower individuals with disabilities to lead independent, fulfilling lives. Every contribution makes a difference. Donate today 

By working together, we can continue to advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and the rights of all individuals in Wisconsin.