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Tag: mental health

Holiday Stress and Seasonal Affective Disorder

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many people experience a noticeable shift in their mood and energy levels. The holidays are usually seen as a happy time of the year, but the pressures of the season and separation from loved ones often make it a stressful time for many, particularly for those living with mental health conditions.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression linked to the changing seasons, can also significantly impact mental health in the winter—especially during the holiday season. Symptoms of SAD typically occur in late fall when daylight hours reduce and can include fatigue, sadness, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, and a loss of interest in activities.

Treatment for SAD can include light therapy, medication, and/or individual therapy sessions.

“The holiday season can be particularly challenging,” said Stephanie Bellcock, ARNP, certified mental health nurse practitioner at McCrary-Rost Clinics of Lake City and Lake View. “It’s important to remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, and help is available.”

Coping Strategies for Mental Health During the Holidays

Mental health experts recommend several strategies to combat the symptoms of SAD and holiday-related stress:

  • Pay attention to your feelings: Remember it is okay to feel down. Recognizing how you feel is the first step to addressing your feelings.
  • Have a plan for when you feel stressed, sad, or lonely:Identify activities that help you feel better ahead of time. Having a plan can make difficult times more manageable. The plan could include anything that brings happiness like calling a friend or family member, going for a walk, or watching a favorite movie.
  • Stay active: Regular physical activity can boost mood and energy levels. Exposure to sunlight outdoors also helps reduce SAD symptoms.
  • Set realistic expectations: Simplify holiday plans to reduce stress and focus on meaningful moments.
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs: The holidays can be difficult for people in substance abuse recovery with the social pressures of the season. Have a plan of how to navigate social events and periods of sadness. For family and friends, it is important to support and check in on loved ones who might be struggling this season.
  • Stay connected: Maintain relationships with friends and loved ones to combat feelings of isolation. Providing support to others who may be feeling down not only helps them, but it can also improve your own well-being.
  • Know when to seek professional help: If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider for therapy, counseling, or medication options.

Local Resources and Events

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital and McCrary-Rost Clinics offer support for those experiencing feelings of depression at all locations. Services include individual counseling and medication support to help individuals navigate the holiday season and winter months. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit https://www.stewartmemorial.org/services/behavioral-and-mental-health-services or call the following numbers for each location:

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Healing the Invisible Wounds: The Power of Mental Health Treatment for Veterans

In recognition of Veterans Day, Stewart Memorial Community Hospital (SMCH) and McCrary Rost Clinics are emphasizing the critical role of mental health treatment in addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans, particularly those struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Many veterans who have served our country bravely often carry the invisible wounds of war, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. These conditions can significantly impact their quality of life, relationships, and overall well-being. Whether a veteran’s service was one or 50 years ago, they don’t have to continue to suffer. Mental health treatment offers a powerful tool for healing and recovery. Stewart Memorial Community Hospital and McCrary Rost Clinics are dedicated to providing accessible and effective mental health services to veterans.

“We are very happy to provide both medication and therapy services because those definitely work hand in hand and are essential to improving mental health,” shared SMCH Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Carrie Goodwin, DNP, PMHNP-BC. “So, if you come in to see me and I think that you have some issues that need to be worked through in therapy, I will gladly refer you to one of our therapists and vice versa. If a therapist is seeing a medication need that isn’t being addressed in therapy, they will refer you to one of our medication providers. We work very well in coordinating our care as a team.”

SMCH mental health specialists commonly work with trauma patients, helping them find appropriate and effective coping skills to adapt.

How Mental Health Therapy Can Help Veterans:

  • Processing Trauma: Therapy provides a safe and supportive space for veterans to process traumatic experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
  • Managing Symptoms: Therapists can teach veterans strategies to manage symptoms of PTSD, such as hypervigilance, flashbacks, and nightmares.
  • Building Resilience: Therapy helps veterans build resilience, enabling them to cope with stress and adversity.
  • Improving Relationships: Therapists can help veterans improve their relationships with family, friends, and loved ones.
  • Reducing Suicidal Risk: Early intervention and ongoing therapy can significantly reduce the risk of suicide among veterans.

If you are a veteran struggling with mental health challenges, please know that you are not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

“We have a crisis line number and a mental health area action team that people can call if they need immediate help,” said Goodwin. “Call the ER, call your primary care provider, call the clinic, call someone. There is no need to struggle in silence. We are here to help you. We are trained to help you. And we want to help you.”

Key Resources for Veterans in Need: