Transitioning to November
The transition from October to November can be a subtle yet impactful shift in many people's lives. The cooling temperatures, the fading colors of the leaves, and the impending holidays can elicit a mix of emotions. The following advice aims to guide you through the first week of November with an emphasis on preserving and uplifting your mental well-being:
1. Embrace Seasonal Changes:
November often ushers in a noticeable change in weather. This transition can affect our moods and energy levels. Embrace the beauty of the season— take a walk to admire the last of the autumn foliage, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket with a book, or start a gratitude journal to reflect on the year's blessings.
2. Set Realistic Expectations:
With the holiday season approaching, there may be pressures related to family, finances, and festivities. Remember that it's okay to set boundaries, decline invitations, or simplify traditions if it's beneficial for your mental health.
3. Stay Connected:
As the days get shorter and colder, it can be tempting to retreat indoors. However, maintaining social connections, whether in person or virtually, can be crucial for combating feelings of loneliness or isolation.
4. Practice Self-Care:
This isn't limited to spa days or bubble baths (although those are great). Self-care can be as simple as setting aside 10 minutes for deep breathing, pursuing a hobby, or even ensuring you're getting enough sleep.
5. Stay Active: The benefits of physical activity on mental health are well-documented. Even if it's cold outside, find ways to move your body, whether it's a brisk walk, an indoor workout, or dancing to your favorite song.
6. Limit Media Consumption:
The start of November can bring an influx of holiday advertisements and, in some countries, intense political coverage. If you find these to be overwhelming or stress-inducing, it's okay to take breaks from the media or curate your consumption.
7. Seek Professional Help If Needed: Always remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you feel persistently down, anxious, or unlike yourself, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor. They can offer coping strategies, resources, and support.
8. Plan Ahead: If you know that the winter months are challenging for you, start planning coping strategies early. This might include light therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), joining a support group, or pre-booking therapy sessions.
9. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine:
While it might be tempting to warm up with certain beverages, excessive alcohol and caffeine can negatively impact your sleep and mood. Moderation is key.
10. Reflect and Reset:
Use this time to reflect on the past months and set intentions for the remaining weeks of the year. What have you accomplished? What challenges have you faced? What do you hope to achieve or experience next?
Remember, everyone's journey with mental health is unique. What works for one person might not work for another. The key is to find what resonates with you and prioritize your wellbeing. Embrace the beauty and potential of November, and give yourself the grace and care you deserve.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the present moment, without judgment or distraction. It involves paying attention to your thoughts, emotions, and sensations in a non-judgmental way, while also being aware of your surroundings.
The goal of mindfulness is to cultivate a sense of calm and inner peace, by focusing on the present moment and letting go of worries or distractions. This can be done through a variety of techniques, such as meditation, breathing exercises, or simply paying attention to your thoughts and feelings as they arise.
One of the key benefits of mindfulness is that it can help reduce stress and anxiety, by helping you to stay centered and focused on the present moment. It can also help improve your overall well-being, by promoting a sense of calm and inner peace.
There are many different ways to practice mindfulness, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. Some people find it helpful to meditate regularly, while others prefer to engage in mindful activities like yoga or walking in nature. The important thing is to find a practice that works for you, and to make it a regular part of your routine.
Free Mental Health Resources in Cibola:
New Mexico Crisis and Access Line | www.nmcrisisline.com Crisis and Access Line | 1-855-NMCRISIS | 1-855-662-7474 Peer-to-Peer Warmline | 1-855-4NM-7100 | 1-855-466-7100 NMConnect smartphone app helps you easily access support in the moment you need it.
Call or Text 988 for quick, free, mental health support.
Village of Milan Police Department has a chaplain program that supports first responders in need. Understanding the wide community need for mental health support, MPD’s chaplain program can also serve the wider public, visit MPD at 619 Uranium Avenue, Milan, New Mexico, 87021.
MPD has a YANA Program to help those feeling lonely or depressed. People in the program will receive a free, daily phone call and will get the opportunity to chat. Visit https://www.villageofmilan. com/y.a.n.a._registration/ index.php for more information.