As the season changes and the weather becomes warmer and brighter, many people look forward to the arrival of spring. However, for those who struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder, the transition to spring can be challenging. The New Mexico Department of Health is a resource that Cibola County residents can take advantage of, offering free assistance to those who need it.
SAD is a form of depression that generally occurs during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. However, for some people, the changing seasons can trigger symptoms during springtime as well.
Symptoms of SAD may include feelings of sadness, low energy, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. For those who experience springtime SAD, these symptoms may be accompanied by feelings of restlessness and irritability.
Readers experiencing symptoms of springtime SAD, should know there are things they can do to help manage symptoms and improve your mental health. According to NMDOH, those affected by SAD should: 1. Get outside: Exposure to natural light can help regulate circadian rhythms and boost readers’ moods. Try spending time outdoors during the day, even for just a few minutes.
2. Stick to a routine: Maintaining a consistent routine can help people feel more in control during times of transition. Try to keep regular meal times, bedtimes, and exercise routines.
3. Stay connected: Social support is essential for managing any mental health condition. Make an effort to stay connected with friends and family, even if it's just a phone call or video chat.
4. Consider therapy or medication: For people with more severe symptoms, therapy or medication may be necessary. If you're struggling to manage your symptoms on your own, consider talking to a doctor or a mental health professional.
5. Focus on mindfulness: SAD won’t last forever; the seasons will change. Understanding this can be a great tool for remembering what is good in life.
With the right support and self-care strategies, it's possible to manage springtime SAD and enjoy the season. If you or someone you know is struggling with SAD, remember that help is available.
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 | 1855-NMCRISIS | 1-855662-7474 Peer-to-Peer Warmline | 1-855-4NM-7100 | 1-855466-7100 NMConnect smartphone app helps you easily access support in the moment you need it. Call or Text 988 for quick 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.
Benefit NM’s Mental Health Research
The State of New Mexico Human Services Department, Behavioral Health Services Division, and Office of Substance Abuse Prevention contracted the Pacific Institute of Research and Evaluation (PIRE) to conduct a community survey asking New Mexicans about substance use and prevention that occurs in our New Mexico communities.
Results from this survey will help BHSD evaluate health promotion programs.
The survey is anonymous, and open to all New Mexicans 18 and older.
After completing the survey, readers can enter to win a $100 or $500 gift card.
Take the survey by visiting this link. https://tinyurl.com/NMC S2023
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