Tag: depression

Mental Health Helps: Contacts for reaching out

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

How to Reach Out for Help When Struggling with Mental Health: Resources for Support

Mental health struggles are incredibly personal, and sometimes reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or issues related to sexual identity, there are multiple ways to get support. Seeking help is the first step toward healing, and there are numerous resources available to assist you in moments of crisis or to simply provide a listening ear when needed.

Here’s a guide on how to access the support you deserve.

1. Immediate Help: National Hotlines and Text Services

If you are in immediate distress, there are national helplines that offer confidential and free support, 24/7. These services can provide crisis intervention, emotional support, and guide you toward further resources.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA)

This is a free, confidential, 24/7 service that provides immediate support for anyone in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. They also offer resources to help with mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, and emotional distress.

Crisis Text Line

  • Text: Text “HELLO” to 741741
  • Website: Crisis Text Line
  • Available 24/7, Crisis Text Line offers text-based crisis intervention. It’s available for anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, panic attacks, or other emotional distress. Whether it’s a small issue or a life-threatening crisis, text lines offer help wherever you are.

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Crisis Support)

  • Phone: 1-866-488-7386
  • Text: Text START to 678678
  • Website: The Trevor Project
  • The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services specifically for LGBTQ+ youth, offering help in a safe, nonjudgmental space.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

  • Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357)
  • Website: SAMHSA Helpline
  • This is a free, confidential, 24/7 helpline for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. SAMHSA offers referrals for treatment facilities, support groups, and more.

2. Specialized Support: Mental Health Resources for Specific Issues

For LGBTQ+ Youth:

  • PFLAG National
    • Phone: 1-202-467-8180
    • Website: PFLAG National
    • PFLAG is the first and largest organization for LGBTQ+ people, their parents, families, and allies. They offer local chapters that provide resources, support, and guidance for individuals navigating identity, especially in challenging times.

For Survivors of Sexual Abuse:

  • RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
    • Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673)
    • Online Chat: RAINN Online Chat
    • RAINN provides confidential support for survivors of sexual violence. Whether you need to speak with a counselor or are seeking help finding resources, RAINN is a trusted resource.

3. Mental Health Support Through Therapy and Counseling

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talking to a therapist can provide professional support. There are numerous platforms that offer therapy services online or in-person. Many providers offer sliding scale fees to make counseling more affordable.

BetterHelp

  • Website: BetterHelp
  • BetterHelp is an online therapy platform where you can connect with licensed counselors through text, video calls, or phone calls. It’s a flexible option for people who may not have access to in-person therapy.

Talkspace

  • Website: Talkspace
  • Like BetterHelp, Talkspace connects you with licensed therapists for online sessions. You can access therapy through text, voice, or video chats, giving you a private and accessible way to reach out for help.

4. YouTube Resources and Mental Health Education

Sometimes, we just need a bit of guidance or even just to hear someone else’s story. YouTube has a variety of resources that offer mental health tips, coping strategies, and motivational support. Here are some helpful channels to check out:

  • Kati Morton
    • Channel: Kati Morton
    • Kati Morton is a licensed therapist who shares videos on mental health topics, ranging from anxiety and depression to relationship struggles and self-care.
  • Psychology In Seattle
    • Channel: Psychology In Seattle
    • Dr. Kirk Honda is a licensed therapist and professor who discusses real-world mental health topics, psychological theory, and personal experiences in a relatable way.
  • The Mighty
    • Channel: The Mighty
    • The Mighty shares empowering stories and educational videos on a wide range of topics, from mental health to chronic illnesses, and offers a supportive community for individuals living with disabilities and mental health challenges.

5. Local Support Groups and Services

In addition to national services, there are often local support groups that provide in-person or online gatherings. These groups can offer safe spaces to talk about your experiences and hear from others who may be going through similar struggles.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

  • Phone: 1-800-950-NAMI (1-800-950-6264)
  • Website: NAMI
  • NAMI offers support groups, resources, and education for individuals and families affected by mental health issues. They have local chapters across the United States that provide peer-led groups.

6. Apps for Mental Health and Wellness

Sometimes, technology can offer a supportive, non-judgmental way to practice self-care and manage mental health. Here are a few apps designed to help with mental wellness:

  • Calm
    • Website: Calm
    • Calm provides guided meditation, breathing exercises, and sleep stories to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  • Headspace
    • Website: Headspace
    • Headspace is another app that offers mindfulness and meditation resources to help manage anxiety, stress, and mental clarity.
  • Sanvello
    • Website: Sanvello
    • Sanvello offers a range of tools, from meditation to mood tracking and therapy. It’s designed to help with stress, anxiety, and depression.

You Are Not Alone

Struggling with your mental health can be isolating, but it’s important to remember that help is available. There is no shame in reaching out, whether it’s through a crisis hotline, therapy, or community resources. You deserve support, and these resources are here to offer just that.

Whether you’re dealing with mental health challenges, identity struggles, or substance abuse, there are people who care and who can help you navigate these tough times. Don’t hesitate to reach out—healing is possible, and taking the first step is often the hardest part. You are worth it.

Post election America…

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

The Post-Election Atmosphere: Finding Hope, Healing, and Unity

The election season has come and gone, but its aftermath lingers in the hearts and minds of many Americans. For some, the results bring hope and optimism for the future, while for others, the uncertainty and division feel overwhelming. The heightened emotions, the rhetoric, the constant media barrage—it all takes a toll on mental health. But as we stand together in the post-election world, it’s important to remember that healing, hope, and unity are still possible. I know it can feel heavy right now, or maybe you are elated and find a sense of relief with the election results. Either way you still have to work alongside people who believe differently than you. Let’s find some ways to cope and find comfort in the coming days and months because we are all Americans and we have to keep moving forward. 

Understanding the Emotional Landscape

Regardless of the outcome, elections are more than just a political event. They are emotional milestones that reflect our values, fears, and dreams for the future. The stress leading up to the election—intensified by polarization, misinformation, and often divisive campaigns—can have lasting effects. Some people feel victorious, empowered by their candidate’s win, while others feel anxious, fearful, or even betrayed. For many, the fear isn’t just about who won or lost, but about what those outcomes could mean for their lives, their communities, and the country as a whole.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the fear and anxiety some are feeling. For people on either side of the aisle, the election process itself can sometimes feel like a giant game of tug-of-war, with the stakes so high that it becomes hard to see beyond the immediate moment. Many are grappling with a sense of uncertainty about the future, especially if they feel that the country’s direction no longer aligns with their values.

Yet, while this atmosphere may feel heavy, it is also an opportunity for us to pause, reflect, and find a way forward—together.

For Those Feeling Hopeful: Keep Building Bridges

For those who are feeling a sense of relief, joy, or hope after the election, it’s important to recognize that the journey doesn’t end at the ballot box. While victory may feel sweet, the true work of healing and unifying our nation starts now. The election is not a conclusion; it’s merely the next chapter.

You can be a source of hope for others by fostering understanding and empathy. Even if you feel your side has “won,” it’s essential to acknowledge that many others are struggling to come to terms with the results. Reaching out to those with differing opinions, listening to their concerns, and engaging in respectful conversations is a step toward healing. Our nation is built on the strength of our diverse perspectives, and we thrive when we come together, not when we retreat into isolated echo chambers.

So, continue to act with compassion. Continue to advocate for progress, but do so in a way that seeks common ground. Work on being inclusive, not just in policy but in your actions and words. This is how we make a real difference.

For Those Feeling Fearful or Uncertain: You Are Not Alone

If you’re feeling fearful or uncertain about the future, your emotions are valid. It’s okay to feel worried, and it’s okay to need time to process. The election results may have felt like a personal loss, especially if you deeply disagreed with the outcome or feel that your rights and values are under threat. But remember: feelings of fear, doubt, and anger are not the end of the story.

In these times, it’s crucial to take care of your mental and emotional health. Political anxiety can be real, and its effects on mental health are not to be underestimated. Feeling disillusioned, frustrated, or anxious about what comes next is normal, but it’s also important to find healthy ways to manage those emotions. This might mean limiting your exposure to the news or social media, connecting with a mental health professional, or simply giving yourself permission to step away from the constant cycle of political discourse.

It’s also vital to remember that change often happens gradually, and one election cycle does not define the future of a nation. If you are feeling despair or fear, try to focus on the things you can control. Invest in your community, support your local businesses, volunteer for causes you care about, or engage in meaningful conversations with others who may share your concerns. Change is not linear, and it’s okay to take a step back and regroup for the work ahead.

Moving Forward: Together as Fellow Americans

At the end of the day, we are all in this together. We all care deeply about the future of our country, even if we sometimes differ in our vision for it. The post-election atmosphere is a reflection of our democratic process—imperfect, yes, but driven by the shared ideal that each of us has a voice, and that voice matters.

No matter who you voted for, it’s essential that we all take a deep breath, reflect on our shared humanity, and move forward with a commitment to healing and understanding. It’s easy to focus on our differences, especially in such a polarized environment, but the future of America depends on our ability to find common ground, build bridges, and work together for the common good.

For both those who are feeling triumphant and those who are feeling fearful, there is hope. The future is not determined by the outcome of a single election—it is shaped by our collective actions, by how we treat each other, and by our willingness to listen, learn, and grow. Even in moments of uncertainty, there is always the possibility of growth, change, and healing.

Let’s move forward together—united as Americans, with empathy in our hearts and hope for a brighter tomorrow. After all, our nation was built not on perfection, but on the ability to continually strive to be better. Let’s keep striving. Together.

Here are some key numbers and resources that can help individuals who need mental health support:

1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988)

  • Phone Number: Dial 988 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline)
  • Website: https://988lifeline.org/
  • Details: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone in distress, including those experiencing mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress. This helpline connects callers to trained counselors who can provide support and resources. It does not involve law enforcement unless the caller is in immediate danger.

2. Crisis Text Line

  • Text Number: Text HOME to 741741
  • Website: https://www.crisistextline.org/
  • Details: The Crisis Text Line provides free, confidential support for anyone in crisis, offering text-based counseling services. It’s available 24/7, and trained crisis counselors are there to listen, offer support, and help guide people through the situation.

3. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline

  • Phone Number: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
  • Text Number: Text “NAMI” to 741741
  • Website: https://www.nami.org/
  • Details: NAMI’s helpline provides free, confidential support and information on mental health issues, including resources for individuals and families dealing with mental illness. The helpline offers guidance on where to seek care and how to find appropriate services without involving law enforcement.

4. The Trevor Project (For LGBTQ+ Youth)

  • Phone Number: 1-866-488-7386
  • Text Number: Text START to 678678
  • Website: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
  • Details: The Trevor Project offers a confidential helpline, text, and chat services for LGBTQ+ youth who are experiencing crisis or need support around mental health, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or coming out. It’s available 24/7 and is specifically aimed at helping LGBTQ+ individuals.

5. Veterans Crisis Line

  • Phone Number: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
  • Text Number: Text 838255
  • Website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
  • Details: The Veterans Crisis Line is a 24/7 helpline for veterans in crisis. It provides confidential support for veterans and their families, helping with mental health issues and distress. Pressing “1” connects you directly to a specialized counselor, and the service does not involve law enforcement unless there is imminent danger.

6. SAMHSA National Helpline

  • Phone Number: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment
  • Details: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline provides 24/7, confidential treatment referral and information for individuals and families facing mental or substance use disorders. SAMHSA helps individuals find nearby mental health providers, detox services, and recovery resources.

7. National Domestic Violence Hotline (For those experiencing abuse, which may include emotional abuse)

  • Phone Number: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Text Number: Text “START” to 88788
  • Website: https://www.thehotline.org/
  • Details: While primarily focused on domestic violence, the hotline also provides support for people experiencing emotional and psychological abuse. It’s available 24/7 and offers confidential guidance and resources for individuals who are feeling unsafe or threatened.

8. Disaster Distress Helpline

  • Phone Number: 1-800-985-5990
  • Text Number: Text “TalkWithUs” to 66746
  • Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline
  • Details: This helpline is available for people who are experiencing distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. It provides immediate crisis counseling and support and helps connect individuals to ongoing mental health resources.

9. Mindful and Supportive Apps

10. Local Crisis and Community Support Lines

  • Many cities and states also offer local crisis helplines that can help connect individuals with mental health resources. These are often confidential and non-judgmental and do not involve law enforcement unless there is immediate danger. To find local mental health crisis resources, check your state or city’s official website or call SAMHSA’s helpline for recommendations.

Final Note:

The mental health crisis helplines listed above are designed to provide immediate support, counseling, and connection to services without involving law enforcement. They are valuable resources for individuals who may be struggling with emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or general mental health concerns. It’s important for everyone to know that help is available—and they are never alone, even in the darkest moments.

Feel free to share these resources widely, as they can make a significant difference for those who need them.

G is for GRIEF

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Navigating the Personal Journey of Loss

Grief is a profound, often overwhelming experience that touches all of our lives at some point. It’s a deeply personal journey that can emerge from various types of loss—whether the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or even the loss of a dream or opportunity. Understanding grief as a lifelong process rather than a linear event can help us navigate its complexities with compassion for ourselves and others.

The Nature of Grief

Grief is not just an emotion; it encompasses a range of feelings, thoughts, and reactions. It can manifest as sadness, anger, confusion, guilt, and even relief. Each person experiences grief differently, influenced by their personality, life experiences, and the nature of the loss.

A Personal Journey

One of the most critical aspects of grief is its deeply personal nature. While there are common stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—each individual traverses these stages in their own way and at their own pace. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve; there’s only your way.

  • Cultural Influences: Cultural backgrounds can shape how we express grief. Some cultures openly mourn, while others may emphasize stoicism. Understanding these differences is vital in supporting those around us.
  • Support Systems: The presence or absence of a supportive network can significantly impact the grieving process. Friends, family, and even professionals can provide comfort, yet the way we choose to engage with that support is uniquely ours.

Grief as a Lifelong Process

Many people may expect grief to resolve after a certain period, but it often lingers, evolving over time. This understanding can be liberating; it acknowledges that grief doesn’t have a strict timeline and allows for ongoing healing.

  • Anniversaries and Milestones: Significant dates, like birthdays or anniversaries, can reignite feelings of grief. This resurgence is a natural part of the process and can remind us of the love we still hold for those we’ve lost.
  • Finding New Meanings: As time passes, the way we relate to our grief may change. We may find ways to honor our loved ones, celebrate their lives, and integrate their memory into our own.

The Greater the Grief, the Greater the Love

One of the most profound truths about grief is that it reflects the depth of our love. The pain we feel is a testament to the bonds we shared. This connection is what makes the journey of grief so significant and transformative.

  • Embracing Love: Rather than shying away from grief, embracing it can be a way to honor our relationships. Acknowledge the love that underlies the sorrow; it’s this love that shapes our memories and influences who we are.
  • Creating Legacy: Finding ways to celebrate the life of the person we’ve lost can help channel our grief into something meaningful. This could be through storytelling, creating art, or participating in activities they loved.

Coping with Grief

As we navigate the personal journey of grief, it’s essential to equip ourselves with tools for coping. Here are some strategies that may help:

  1. Allow Yourself to Feel: Give yourself permission to experience all emotions that arise without judgment. Grief is not something to “get over” but something to honor.
  2. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether through friends, family, or support groups, connecting with others who understand can be immensely comforting.
  3. Express Yourself: Writing, art, and other forms of expression can provide an outlet for your feelings. Journaling about your experience can help you process your emotions.
  4. Practice Self-Care: Grieving can be exhausting. Prioritize self-care through rest, nutrition, and activities that bring you joy or solace.
  5. Consider Professional Help: If grief feels overwhelming, seeking the guidance of a therapist can provide valuable support and coping strategies.

That’s not all folks:

Grief is a complex and deeply personal journey that requires patience and compassion. It is a lifelong process, interwoven with love and memory. Acknowledging that the greater the grief, the greater the love can help us embrace our experiences, honor those we’ve lost, and ultimately find a way to carry their legacy forward in our lives. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; your path is uniquely yours, and it’s okay to take the time you need to heal.

The personal part:

Keeping all of the above in mind, I have become very familiar with grief. It is a personal companion and has been with me since I was 11 years old. My only living grandparent died, my Granny, she was just the best towards me. And she impacted my life in so many ways, from “not sweeping through the middle” to “I love you a bushel and a peck,” helping me count to 100, taking rides through the countryside and everything in between. This is not to discount the losses that followed. It just compounds the grief; I still miss them and all of my other loved ones who are no longer here with me. The grief can be heavy some days. In the beginning, the initial shock, it is kind of easy. Easy, in that no one expects much from you in the beginning. You have the sympathy of everyone around you for your loss, but then it fades. You have to continue to go to work, do laundry, grocery shop, and with each of these tasks you are still very aware that the world you knew has changed forever. But the world keeps spinning even while you are in the throes of grief, life goes on, work still has to be done, bills paid. The routine soothes you a little bit, trying to keep things “normal” while you process what it is that has this grip on you. 

The holidays are always the hardest after a loss. Whether it be a birthday, anniversary or the holiday season following Halloween, they can all be hard. You can honor your loved ones and keep the same traditions, it may feel hollow at first, but there will be new meaning in them. This year I am not only facing the holidays without my parents but without 2 members of my village that always helped to pull me back from the brink when things got rough. I didn’t expect to have to traverse life and grief in losing friends that had become family. Losing the sister from another mister, my daily check in text or call, Audra could make me absolutely crazy with some of her theories but at our hearts we both enjoyed food and flavors and cultures and we raised our babies together. We made last minute poodle skirts together. She helped me expand my horizons. We valued critical thinking and doing what’s best for ourselves even if others didn’t understand. She helped me to embrace who I am. Now our youngest babies are freshmen in high school and she isn’t here to navigate this part. Some days are better than others and I think of her adult children each day. I think of her husband, left behind with a teen boy to raise without his mom. I digress. These things are all part of my daily existence. 

But in learning to let go, it is especially poignant in the fall. In the fall, trees lose their leaves, as they continue to grow. They become a shell of themselves, but we know that in the spring they sprout new leaves. I am taking a lesson from the trees this year. I am going to let go of things, it is hard work, but it is important work. I am going to let go of the past. I am going to cherish memories of loved ones and prepare myself to move forward in this new existence. I will remember each of them in different ways and on different days, but in letting go of how I thought life would be, I am freeing myself of the immense weight that grief can bear down on me. I will keep old traditions that still serve me and maybe create new ones to celebrate this new chapter of life. I didn’t plan for this journey of grief; I don’t think you can. What you can do is appreciate the time that you have and make the minutes count.

Love and light y’all, it can get dark out there. 

Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Strategies for Brightening the Darker Days

As the seasons change and daylight hours dwindle, many individuals experience a form of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This condition typically arises during the fall and winter months, when natural sunlight is scarce, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, and a general sense of sadness. If you find yourself feeling down during the colder months, here are several effective strategies to help cope with Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and often include:

  • Low energy or fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in sleep patterns (oversleeping or insomnia)
  • Weight gain or loss due to changes in appetite
  • Feelings of hopelessness or despair

While SAD can affect anyone, it’s more prevalent in women and individuals living in northern latitudes where daylight is limited in winter.

Effective Coping Strategies

1. Light Therapy

One of the most common treatments for SAD is light therapy, which involves exposure to a special light box that mimics natural sunlight. This therapy helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythms and can alleviate symptoms. Here are some tips for effective use:

  • Duration: Aim for 20-30 minutes of exposure each morning.
  • Timing: Use the light box in the morning when you wake up, as it helps set your body’s internal clock.
  • Quality: Choose a light box that emits 10,000 lux and filters out UV rays.

2. Stay Active

Physical activity is a powerful tool against depression. Regular exercise can boost mood by increasing endorphins, improving sleep, and reducing anxiety. Here are some ways to incorporate movement into your routine:

  • Outdoor Activities: Even in colder weather, consider walking, hiking, or participating in winter sports like skiing or snowshoeing to get sunlight exposure.
  • Indoor Workouts: Join a gym, try online fitness classes, or practice yoga at home to stay active regardless of the weather. There are a number of apps and Youtube channels for indoor workouts.

3. Maintain a Routine

I cannot stress routine enough when experiencing mental health issues. Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and stability, which can be especially helpful during the winter months. Here’s how to create an effective routine:

  • Regular Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to regulate your circadian rhythm. It is so easy to get a routine disrupted by a late night on the weekends, and it is ok to have a late night, but don’t let it derail your routine. 
  • Meal Planning: Prepare balanced meals at consistent times to help manage energy levels and mood.Meal planning may seem daunting at first, but it can be as simple or as complicated as you would like. 

4. Connect with Nature

Getting outside, even on cloudy days, can have a positive effect on your mood. Here are some ideas:

  • Nature Walks: Take short walks in a local park or nature reserve. The natural surroundings can be uplifting.
  • Gardening: If possible, try indoor gardening or plan for spring gardening to keep your connection to nature alive.

5. Nurture Social Connections

Social support is crucial for mental health. Stay connected with friends and family, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help or companionship:

  • Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular calls or video chats with loved ones. You can let them know you are struggling or just simply enjoy a nice chat, either way, making it a point to stay connected is crucial. 
  • Join Groups: Consider participating in community activities, classes, or support groups to meet new people. This can mean even groups on social media. It is not a new idea per se but even our online friends can be points of connection for those who may also struggle with being introverted or very private people. 

6. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Practicing mindfulness can help you stay grounded and reduce feelings of anxiety and sadness. Here are some techniques to try:

  • Meditation: Start with just a few minutes a day, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable. Try a podcast or youtube video to help get you started and then you can strike out on your own or continue with guided meditation.
  • Deep Breathing Exercises: Simple deep breathing can help calm your mind and reduce stress. It sounds silly, to tell people to breathe, we do it involuntarily all day long, but deep breathing is different. You concentrate on taking deep cleansing breaths and exhaling as much as possible. It really can help to soothe you.

7. Consider Professional Help

If symptoms are severe or persistent, seeking professional help is essential. Therapy options include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This approach can help you identify and change negative thought patterns.
  • Medication: Antidepressants may be recommended by your healthcare provider if other treatments are ineffective.

In parting, please remember:

Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder requires a multifaceted approach, combining light therapy, physical activity, social support, and mindfulness practices. By implementing these strategies, you can create a more positive experience during the darker months. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate SAD. If your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional. Embrace the changes of the season and find ways to bring light into your life!

Here’s a list of helpful YouTube channels and podcasts that focus on coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and mental wellness:

YouTube Channels

  1. Therapy in a Nutshell
    YouTube Channel
    Offers practical tips for mental health, including coping strategies for SAD.
  2. The School of Life
    YouTube Channel
    Provides insights on emotional well-being, including seasonal mood changes.
  3. Kati Morton
    YouTube Channel
    A licensed therapist discussing mental health topics, including SAD.
  4. Mindful Peace
    YouTube Channel
    Focuses on mindfulness and meditation techniques that can help with mood regulation.
  5. Psychology In Seattle
    YouTube Channel
    Discusses mental health topics, including the effects of seasons on mood.

Podcasts

  1. Therapy Chat
    Podcast Link
    Discusses various mental health issues, including seasonal affective disorder.
  2. The Happiness Lab
    Podcast Link
    Explores the science of happiness and well-being, with episodes relevant to coping with seasonal changes.
  3. Mindful Muslim Podcast
    Podcast Link
    Focuses on mental wellness and coping strategies, including managing seasonal affective disorder.
  4. The Anxiety Coaches Podcast
    Podcast Link
    Offers insights on managing anxiety, which can be heightened by SAD.
  5. The Trauma Therapist Podcast
    Podcast Link
    While focused on trauma, it provides useful strategies for emotional health that can apply to SAD.

Feel free to explore these resources for support and strategies to cope with Seasonal Affective Disorder!

Navigating life -Steps you can take

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Getting through the tough times – Steps you can take

If you have seen my previous posts, you know a bit of what we have been through and ways that I have tried to help my family cope with various struggles. Although I gave birth to 5 children, I also have had the honor to be a safe adult for several other children in my life-time. Meaning they either lived with me or were always coming to me to help them through difficult times. They are mostly adults now and still have struggles, but because they learned some coping skills, the struggles are not as difficult. This blog is to serve as a help in the conversation about mental health. It is filled with what has worked for us and what we tried. Mental health issues are not really a one size fits all, some meds will work for some and not so well for others. Therapy with a professional can be beneficial for everyone but takes time. What can be beneficial is to not stop trying, to keep looking for what works for you and your family. I will always advocate for being mindful of what you are CONSUMING, that means food, entertainment, information, social media, it will all have an effect on your mental health. Keeping all of this in mind, the following is a post about steps you can take while on your mental health journey. 

Are you someone who needs quiet? DO you crave some quiet alone time in your day to process, prepare or recuperate from your day? Here are some things that help with getting that little slice of quiet.

  1. Get up earlier than the rest of the family- I know it sounds hard but it can be beneficial for you to start your morning mentally preparing yourself for the day. You can have a quiet cup of coffee or listen to a bit of calming music, do your morning stretches, read your Bible, just some quiet “just me” time that is calm
  2. Stay up a bit later than everyone else. Yes, I did this quite a bit. In the evening you can also do some skincare, a soak in the tub, again music to wind down, reading a book or Bible study. I don’t recommend exercise before bedtime because the feel good hormones that are released actually serve to wake you up and you will not be going to sleep soon afterwards. 
  3. If you are a parent that has to pick up the kids, read while waiting in the pick up line. If you have to commute, listen to a podcast or audiobook. This isn’t entirely quiet, but it is a bit of time carved out for you to do something that is just for you. 

Do you feel like you just want to cry sometimes? Yeah, me too. Crying can be a beneficial emotional release, serving as a natural mechanism to process and alleviate stress or sadness. My husband will sometimes intentionally take time to watch something that he knows will make him cry, because he says it is cleansing. I agree it can be cleansing, but I am not set up to do what my husband does. I am that mom that has avoided the final episode of Supernatural because I knew the ending would be sad. I didn’t know the details BUT I just KNEW it would make me cry, all endings like that on tv shows make me cry. It’s over. No more. So yeah, I cried. I cried when I was going through Grey’s. I didn’t need to intentionally look for stuff, sometimes the news made me cry. Crying is normal and healthy. Sometimes it is overwhelming sadness and other times tears accompany great joy! 

When tears do flow, they often help to release pent-up emotions and can even trigger the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers. To make the most of this cathartic experience, it’s useful to follow a few steps:

  1. Allow yourself to cry without judgment; acknowledging and accepting your emotions can lead to a more profound emotional release. 
  1. Find a safe and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.
  1. After the tears have subsided, engage in self-care activities such as deep breathing, journaling, or talking to a trusted friend, to help you process the experience and regain a sense of balance. Embracing crying as a part of your emotional toolkit can foster resilience and lead to greater overall well-being.

We get to cry, however if you find yourself crying often and easily, then perhaps medical or therapeutic interventions should be pursued. 

The most important thing you can do for yourself or to help anyone who may struggle is to connect. Talk to someone or listen to someone when struggling. Connection to others has been proven to be the most vital aspect of mental health. 

Here’s a list of key contacts and resources for those struggling with mental health issues. It’s important to reach out to professionals or organizations that can provide support and guidance.

 Emergency Contacts:

1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 1-800-273-TALK (8255)  

   – Available 24/7 for crisis support.

2. Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741  

   – Provides 24/7 support via text.

3. Emergency Services (U.S.): Dial 911  

   – For immediate assistance in a crisis situation. Ensure they operator is aware it is a mental health emergency

General Support:

1. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)  

   – Provides information, support, and resources for mental health.

2. Mental Health America (MHA): 1-800-969-6642  

   – Offers mental health resources and support.

3. SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)  

   – Provides information and referrals for mental health and substance use disorders.

Online Resources:

1. 7 Cups: [7cups.com](https://www.7cups.com)  

   – Offers free, anonymous online counseling and support.

2. BetterHelp: [betterhelp.com](https://www.betterhelp.com)  

   – Provides online therapy with licensed professionals.

3. Headspace: [headspace.com](https://www.headspace.com)  

   – Offers mindfulness and meditation resources.

International Contacts:

1. Samaritans (UK & Ireland): 116 123  

   – Offers support 24/7 for those in emotional distress.

2. Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14  

   – Provides 24/7 crisis support.

3. Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566  

   – Offers support through phone and text.

Remember, it’s essential to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling. These resources are a good starting point for finding the support needed. And remember the best lesson from Finding Nemo comes from Dory: “Just keep swimming” Make it a great day folks, the choice is in your hands.