Maybe you need to talk to someone

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This series is about increasing awareness of (good) mental health and what you can do for yourself and how to access local services. But today, I’m going to suggest something that is usually free and available to us anytime. Keep reading…

I recently participated in a training on Climate Change and Mental Health. Dr. Debbie Sturm, a Professor at James Madison University in Virginia, presented her research and interest in “nature connectedness.” (Do you feel yourself warming up?) At the time I listened, the U.S. was in the midst of one of the many hurricanes this summer, was it Sally or Sarah? Oh, Sarah!

I sat cozily in New Mexico, where we can usually say it is safe except for our rising temperatures, frequent drought, and some fierce spring winds. Like many of you though, I was paying attention and could not really fathom what it must be like for the thousands of families fleeing their homes. We have not mentioned the blazing fires in California, Oregon, Colorado and the West in general.

Sturm made the statement, “a mental health, ecological and public health crisis in on the horizon. We need to be knowledgeable about this.” How is our mental health impacted during and following disasters? How is it effecting our younger people, having concerns about their planet and future? We now know that there will continue to be more frequent tropical storms, hurricanes, and fires due to climate change. I am not an expert in that so I will focus on the mental health issues.

The most vulnerable populations are impacted the most; our elderly, homeless, disabled, the poor, and our children. Any of us can be impacted, of course. I recall a man who was interviewed during a California fire who was tired. He had just completed a third home (prior homes had been destroyed); his third had burned down and he had evacuated 13 times. People are uprooted, lose a sense of safety and security, feel their lives threatened, often lose property and life (animals, neighbors, communities, loved ones). Studies show that as temperature rises, there is an increase in suicide, homicide, violence, assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and substance abuse. There are more suicide “completions” - not just attempts, with financial loss, stress and drought. Basically, heat increases violence in our communities.

On to the exciting and free part…

There is also overwhelming research globally about the importance of our connection with nature. We didn’t really need research to tell us this, but I don’t want you thinking I made it up either. An Inuit who was interviewed made this statement, “For us, going out on the land is a form of spirituality, and if you can’t get there, then you almost feel like your spirit is dying.” Sounds familiar to the people of New Mexico, right? “Solastalgia” describes a form of emotional or existential distress caused by environmental change. It is like the “homesickness you feel when you are still at home.” Eco-anxiety is the anxiety or fear of what may happen.

Go where you feel alive; one of my favorite quotes by John Muir is, “The mountains are calling, and I must go.” This is a perfect time in New Mexico to drive and see the changing colors of the landscape. Load up the family, bring your older family members and don’t forget the kids and teens. Take a hike, a walk, ride your bike, cycle, fish, camp, et cetera. Enjoy our local Riverwalk Park and the trail. Teach your children to enjoy nature and develop hobbies. We are never too old to begin, or return to, new healthy behaviors.

Enjoying nature is good for everyone; it is especially helpful for overcoming depression, anxiety, and addictions.

By the way, we can also see the effects of climate change on our state. A recent drive to Bibo [Cibola County] revealed very dry conditions and lots of brown for this time of year. Despite our summer monsoons, we need more water. Let’s lift up prayers, dance for rain or whatever we can to look forward to the beauty of snow and spring rains.

As always, if you or someone you are concerned about need counseling, reach out to a local provider below.

Acoma Pueblo Behavioral Health Services 505-552-6661

Casa San Jose Behavioral Health – 505-285-5451

Cibola Family Health Center (Cibola General Hospital, Social Service Dept.) – 505-287-5211

Four Corners Clinic – 505-290-7178 (M, W, TH)

Grants Family Counseling -505-287-2273/876-1890

Laguna Behavioral Health – 505-552-6513

Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness - 505-658-0052

Open Skies – 505-285-3672

Rasmussen Counseling, LLC – 505-433-5860

Roberta’s Place (Domestic Violence) – 505-287-7200

Valle del Sol – 505-287-7985

Winds of Change – 505-290-4551

*National Suicide Prevention Line 1-800-279-TALK

Or Text MHA to 741-741 to text with a trained counselor for a crisis