As we enter the Holiday season, it is important to remember to be grateful for everything we can be thankful for. Many people love Thanksgiving because it is a time to focus on giving thanks, loving our friends and family, and settling into the fall and winter seasons. The harvest is done, and it is time for the earth to rest, replenish, and restore. Those of us who live in the milder area of the United States look forward to time indoors, enjoying a fire, and getting cozy. Many are enjoying hunting season and the beauty of the outdoors.
Being grateful and intentionally writing down what we are thankful for each day is often a homework assign ment for many clients in counseling. It sounds so simple, but until we really practice it in a meaningful way to us, many people dismiss it. One of my clients who struggles with not quite feeling like she is enough, but in my view is incredibly talented and has done many things very well, took this one step farther. She announced after several sessions what she did with this assignment. She likes to make things and created leaves for one of the walls in their home. On each leave, she and her spouse wrote things they are grateful for. I was so happy that she put some thought and creativity into this. They are raising a two-year-old son; imagine the teaching moments they may have with their son.
If you are struggling with seeing anything positive during this pandemic, are feeling sad or depressed, lonely; or may be struggling with drinking, eating, or substance abuse, remember to give thanks for everything. If we search long enough, we see there is usually something to be thankful for even in terrible situations. It can be extremely difficult to ask for help, and yet in this situation, we learn that we need other people. If you have lost a loved one, honor their memory and talk about them this season. Do something to remember them and do something you enjoy this time of year. It is hard and it will feel different, but it will get better.
Below is a list of local licensed behavioral health providers if you, a family member, or friend needs someone to talk. Clinics often have waiting lists now; follow up every week with a phone call to let them know you are still wanting services. Be sure to make your appointments and call 24 hours in advance if you cannot make the appointment. Most sessions are now through telehealth or phone calls.
Acoma Pueblo Behavioral Health Services 505-552-6661
Casa San Jose Behavioral Health – 285-5451
Cibola Family Health Center (Cibola General Hospital, Social Service Dept.) – 287-5211
Four Corners Clinic – 505-290-7178 (M, W, TH)
Grants Family Counseling -287-2273/876-1890
Laguna Behavioral Health – 505-552-6513
Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness – 505-658-0052
Open Skies – 285-3672
Rasmussen Counseling, LLC – 505-433-5860
Roberta’s Place (Domestic Violence) – 287-7200
Valle del Sol – 287-7985
Winds of Change – 290- 4551; medication
*National Suicide Prevention Line 1-800-279-TALK
Or Text MHA to 741-741 to text with a trained counselor for a crisis
Rhythms of Light Hypnotherapy – rhythmsoflighthypnotherapy.com 505-240-0154