Epilepsy Affects Millions — Here’s What You Should Know

“Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains one of the most serious long-term complications affecting our patient population at InterCommunity,” stated Dr. Zachary Steinbach, Medical Lead at InterCommunity Health Care. “Often called a 'silent' condition, CKD can progress for years without causing noticeable symptoms. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, the disease is often in its most advanced stages.” Advanced CKD can lead to severe health consequences, including cardiovascular disease, fluid overload, and the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant. According to national health data, millions of Americans are living with CKD — and many are unaware they have it. Risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and a family history of kidney disease. Given this, our recent focus at InterCommunity has been closing the diabetes care gap to help prevent these outcomes. Early intervention — through blood pressure control, blood sugar management, and healthy lifestyle choices — can significantly slow disease progression. At InterCommunity, we are committed to raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting patients in managing their kidney health. If you or anyone you know needs assistance with diabetes, contact InterCommunity at 860-569-5900.

InterCommunity’s South Windsor Clinic launched its Extended Outpatient Program (EOP) on January 27, 2026, in response to a clear and growing demand for a higher level of accessible mental health care. EOP is suitable for clients who need to work, attend school, and have ongoing family obligations, and want to re-engage in care or are looking to maintain long-term accountability. EOP is designed for individuals requiring more support than traditional outpatient therapy, in that it's an elevated outpatient experience for exploring and addressing substance use disorders and the underlying issues that fuel behavioral health issues. EOP provides structured yet flexible support, including weekly group therapy and access to mental health and medical support. Program Manager Maria Bye explains that EOP “bridges the gap between InterCommunity’s different levels of care and outpatient treatment, which allows patients to maintain work or school commitments while receiving structured therapeutic support.” The expansion is expected to serve an additional twelve plus patients per month. InterCommunity’s South Windsor Clinic will now offer daytime sessions, evening group sessions, telehealth check-ins, and individual therapy. Bye says, “The response to the Extended Outpatient Program has been very positive from our clients and community partners. Community partners appreciate having an additional referral option, and clients report feeling more supported, connected, and accountable.” If you or someone you know could benefit from an Extended Outpatient Program, please call InterCommunity at (860) 569-5900 ext. 635 or visit www.intercommunityct.org .

In today’s fast-paced environment, sleep is often sacrificed in the interest of productivity. In reality, adequate rest is a foundational component of overall health and performance. With Sleep Awareness Week taking place from March 8 to 14, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the critical role sleep plays in our daily lives. “Adequate sleep plays a central role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” stated Dr. Zachary Steinbach, Medical Lead at InterCommunity Health Care. “It supports brain function, metabolic regulation, cardiovascular health, and immune system activity. During deep and REM sleep, the brain consolidates memory, clears metabolic waste, and stabilizes mood‑regulating pathways, while the body fine-tunes hormone balance involved in appetite, glucose control, and stress response. Chronic sleep loss can increase the risk of hypertension, insulin resistance, weight gain, and impaired immune defense.” Most adults require seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting caffeine later in the day, reducing screen exposure before bedtime, and creating a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment can significantly improve sleep quality. Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt healthy sleep patterns. They often show up as persistent trouble falling or staying asleep, loud snoring, gasping during sleep, extreme daytime fatigue, or unusual movements or behaviors at night. If these issues are ongoing or affecting daily life, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional who can evaluate what’s going on and guide next steps. If you or anyone you know needs assistance with a sleep disorder, contact InterCommunity at 860-569-5900.

InterCommunity is proud to welcome Jim Kelly as the new Chair of the Board of Directors. Jim was officially sworn into the role on December 5, 2025, during InterCommunity’s Annual Meeting, marking an important moment of leadership transition for the organization. Jim brings more than two decades of public service experience to InterCommunity. A retired Assistant Attorney General, he spent 25 years representing the Connecticut Department of Children and Families in Juvenile Court, advocating for the safety, stability, and well-being of children and families. His career reflects a deep commitment to justice, accountability, and compassion—values that closely align with InterCommunity’s mission to provide whole-person care for all. Equally important to Jim’s leadership is his personal connection to InterCommunity’s work. He has been in long-term recovery for more than 40 years and remains actively engaged in the recovery community. This lived experience brings a powerful perspective to his role as Board Chair, grounding governance decisions in empathy, understanding, and respect for the recovery journey. “I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as Board Chair at InterCommunity. This organization’s commitment to compassionate, whole-person care is close to my heart, and I’m honored to support its mission alongside such dedicated staff, board members, and community partners,” Jim Kelly shared. Jim and his wife live in Manchester, where he continues to be an advocate for community-based solutions that strengthen individuals and families. As Board Chair, he is committed to supporting InterCommunity’s staff, leadership, and partners as the organization continues to expand access to integrated primary care, mental health, and substance use services across the region. InterCommunity is grateful for Jim’s willingness to serve and looks forward to the leadership, insight, and steady guidance he will bring in the years ahead.

Winter in Connecticut can be beautiful—but extreme cold can also be dangerous, especially for your heart and overall health. When temperatures drop, the body works harder to stay warm. Blood vessels tighten to keep heat in, which can raise blood pressure and heart rate. According to the American Heart Association , cold weather can increase the risk of heart attacks, especially for people with existing heart conditions. Cold weather can also make everyday activities riskier. Simple tasks like shoveling snow or walking through heavy snow can put sudden strain on the heart. Many people are not used to this kind of physical effort, which makes injuries and medical emergencies more likely. Another serious risk is hypothermia, which happens when the body temperature drops below 95°F. Hypothermia can cause confusion, slow reactions, poor coordination, and extreme tiredness. It can be life-threatening. Older adults and children are especially at risk because they may not notice the warning signs or be able to ask for help. Wind, snow, and wet clothing can make the body lose heat even faster. Simple Steps Can Protect Your Health There are ways to stay safer during cold weather: Dress in warm layers to trap heat Wear a hat, gloves, and warm socks Take breaks when shoveling snow Avoid drinking alcohol before or after being outdoors Pay attention to how your body feels Call 911 right away if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath If you have heart disease or other medical conditions, talk to a healthcare provider before doing strenuous activities in the cold. InterCommunity Is Here for You “Winter can be especially challenging for many in our community,” said Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity. “No one should feel they have to manage their health alone. At InterCommunity, we’re here to provide accessible, whole-person care—whether that means managing ongoing health needs, addressing new symptoms, or helping patients stay safe and supported throughout the winter season.” Getting care early can prevent serious problems. If you or someone you love has concerns this winter, don’t wait—complete the outpatient self-referral form and connect with expert care close to home.

A Message from Kimberly L. Beauregard, LCSW, President & Chief Executive Officer, InterCommunity Health Care As I reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I am more convinced than ever that, amid the challenges facing our community and our world, Dr. King’s vision and moral leadership matter more than ever. His “I Have a Dream” speech remains a timeless call to end racial discrimination and to realize the full potential of our nation. At its heart is a simple but enduring truth: that people should be judged by the content of their character, not the color of their skin, and that justice denied anywhere threatens justice everywhere. As a leader in healthcare, I am grateful to serve within an organization whose values align so closely with that vision. Dr. King’s words remind me that healthcare is not only about diagnosing illness or prescribing treatment. It is about dignity, compassion, equity, and respect for the whole person. I am proud to lead with an unwavering commitment to health equity and to ensure that compassion guides every interaction and decision we make. Dr. King captured this responsibility powerfully when he said, “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane because it often results in physical death.” This truth continues to shape our work and our resolve. Dr. King’s final book, Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?, still challenges us to look beyond the walls of our clinics and hospitals and confront the social and systemic barriers that impact health, including access to safe housing, quality education, and economic opportunity. At InterCommunity, we reaffirm our commitment to fulfilling Dr. King’s dream by advancing health equity, standing firmly against injustice, and ensuring that every person has access to compassionate, high-quality care, regardless of race, income, or background. Inspired by his legacy, we strive to listen more closely, serve more humbly, and act more boldly in pursuit of a healthier and more equitable future for all. Today, and every day going forward, I encourage each of us to reflect on how we can advance Dr. King’s vision, not only in our words but also in our deeds and interactions with clients, colleagues, and communities. Together, we can make his dream of justice, peace, and equality a living reality.

On December 18, InterCommunity was honored to once again partner with Steven’s Stockings for a day rooted in compassion, dignity, and hope. Backpacks filled with self-care essentials, warm clothing, and recreational items were distributed to InterCommunity clients and community members impacted by mental illness, addiction, or homelessness—small gestures with a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone. Steven’s Stockings was created in memory of Steven Sienkiewicz, whose life was shaped by both addiction and progressive mental illness. Steven believed deeply that everyone deserves a second chance—or a third, or a tenth—whatever it takes. Though he is no longer here to build the safe, welcoming space he dreamed of, his spirit lives on through this program. Each backpack shared on December 18 carried not only essential items, but also acknowledgement, acceptance, and emotional support—the heart of Steven’s vision and the mission of Steven’s Stockings. The relationship between Steven’s Stockings and InterCommunity began unexpectedly on Christmas Eve in 2016. After delivering gifts to shelters across Hartford, the Steven’s Stockings team found themselves with remaining backpacks and no destination. A family connection led them to Coventry House, one of InterCommunity’s recovery programs. When they knocked on the door, they were met with warmth, gratitude, and open arms. What began as a spontaneous stop became the start of a deeply meaningful partnership—one that has grown stronger each year. “InterCommunity holds a very special place in our hearts. From that first unexpected visit years ago, we felt an immediate sense of warmth, respect, and shared purpose," said Marie Sienkiewicz, President of Steven's Stockings. "Each December, when we return, we are reminded that recovery is built on connection, compassion, and believing in people—exactly the values Steven carried with him and that InterCommunity lives every day.” Since that first visit, Steven’s Stockings has returned annually to InterCommunity, delivering backpacks to clients at every stage of recovery. Beyond the items themselves, the December gatherings have become moments of connection—opportunities to meet clients and staff, share Steven’s story, and honor the strength and courage it takes to keep moving forward on the path to recovery. This year’s December 18 distribution was a powerful reminder of what is possible when compassion meets community. Through Steven’s Stockings, InterCommunity clients were reminded that their journeys matter, their resilience is recognized, and their future is worth investing in. Together, InterCommunity and Steven’s Stockings continue to carry Steven’s legacy forward—one backpack, one conversation, and one moment of hope at a time.

Just before Thanksgiving, InterCommunity’s School-Based Health Center (SBHC) team helped ensure that families in East Hartford could enjoy a warm, complete holiday meal. On November 19 and November 21, the SBHC team partnered with Connecticut Foodshare to host two Thanksgiving food drives at Mayberry Elementary School—our only school site with a permanent food pantry. Thanks to this coordinated effort, more than 20 families received full Thanksgiving dinners, bringing comfort and stability during a time when many face increased financial strain. These events showcased the heart of our mission and the dedication of our staff. We extend heartfelt gratitude to SBHC Coordinator Guadalupe Ferreyra for identifying families in need, to our Facilities Team for transporting and distributing meals, and to SBHC Practice Manager Jessica Russell for managing logistics and leading the collaboration with Connecticut Foodshare. Their compassion and teamwork ensured that support reached the families who needed it most. This year’s holiday season also underscored a growing concern: the recent government shutdown and resulting loss of SNAP benefits for many households. As families suddenly faced gaps in essential resources, InterCommunity recognized the urgent need to strengthen our role in combating food insecurity—not only within our programs but across the community at large. In response, InterCommunity is expanding its food support efforts. In addition to maintaining the School-Based Health Center food pantry at Mayberry Elementary School, InterCommunity will now work more closely with local food pantries to help stock shelves, provide financial support, and ensure that food access remains steady for vulnerable residents. Several InterCommunity sites will soon host food drop-off locations, making it easier for staff, partners, and supporters to contribute. We also invite donors to make a direct impact by giving to the IC Food Pantry Fund, which helps us purchase essential items and respond quickly to emerging needs. Together, we can make sure families struggling with food insecurity are met with compassion, dignity, and dependable support—during the holidays and all year long. To support our efforts, visit our donation page and select “IC Food Pantry” under support designation.

While the holidays are often portrayed as a season filled with joy, connection, and celebration, the reality can look very different for many individuals and families. Beneath the bright lights, busy schedules, and expectations to feel cheerful, a significant number of people face emotional challenges that intensify this time of year. Stress, grief, loneliness, financial strain, and seasonal changes can all contribute to what is commonly known as holiday depression—and it affects far more people than we often acknowledge. According to the American Psychological Association’s 2023 Stress in America survey , 41% of U.S. adults report their stress increases during the holiday season compared to other times of the year. Much of this stress is tied to increased responsibilities, financial pressure, and the expectation to participate in social gatherings even when individuals feel emotionally drained. Nearly half of adults report missing loved ones or experiencing grief, a reminder that the holidays can amplify feelings of loss. A 2025 AARP study found that 40% of adults aged 45 and older report feeling lonely, and these feelings often intensify this time of year. Grief, distance from loved ones, and unmet expectations can make the season feel even heavier. For those living with mental health conditions, the season can be especially difficult. A survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 64% of people with mental health conditions reported their symptoms worsened around the holidays—a finding reaffirmed by SAMHSA in 2023. For many, the pressure to appear “happy” makes it even harder to share how they are truly feeling. Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Chad McDonald, emphasizes the importance of awareness, compassion, and support during this time. “Behind the holiday lights and pressures to be 'joyous', many are struggling in silence—when more than 60% of those with mental health conditions have worse symptoms," he states. "It’s important to remind each other that help is not just available—it’s essential.” At InterCommunity, we want our community to know that they do not have to face these challenges alone. We encourage everyone to take small steps to protect their well-being—whether that means setting boundaries, making time for rest, honoring grief, or reaching out to trusted friends and family. And for those who need additional support, our behavioral health services are here to help, offering counseling, crisis intervention, and a safe space to talk. This year, let’s give ourselves—and others—permission to slow down, set boundaries, and reach out for support. Emotional health is health, and taking care of it is one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer. If you or someone you know needs support, please call InterCommunity at (860) 569-5900 or visit www.intercommunityct.org . For urgent needs, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.