Men and women experience mental health illnesses differently. Use this chart to help identify and understand symptoms and behaviors you or someone you know may be experiencing.
The swift approach of Autumn and the ending of summer can be a brutal adjustment. Days are short and cold, evenings are dark and long, and these changes in the weather can bring on symptoms of Seasonal Depressive Disorder. Because of this, it’s important to find enjoyable ways to combat these symptoms and protect your mental health. Here are a few suggestions to help you get excited for the changing season, all while supporting your mental health.
In many fields of work, burnout is as common as physical ailments amongst staff. This can be described as a beast – a phantom that creeps up. When feelings of burnout begin to creep in, remind yourself why you do what you do, challenge yourself to start a new hobby, take mindful breaks from work, and seek support in friends, coworkers, and supervisors.
As a family responder, working with youth who struggle with suicidality (deliberately hurting oneself with an intent to die) is a routine part of my job. Parents are often not provided with the same skill set as mental health professionals, yet they are the “first responders” when it comes to their child’s mental health. In my years working with suicidal youth and their families, I’ve noticed trends in the information I share with parents.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, an opportunity to focus on the prevalence of suicide in our communities and talk about steps we can all take to support mental health and suicide prevention. Learn more about the warning signs and what you can do to help.
Arts and recreation activities build skills that can help young people by providing a sense of community, building connections, creating purpose and meaning, helping to process trauma and become more resilient. All important tools in preventing suicide and building resilient mental health in youth.
Youth at our agencies often engage in art projects as part of treatment, education, or recreation while in our care. Here are some inspiring pieces created by our talented youth.
Knitting, embroidery, quilting, and other textile hobbies can be incredibly beneficial for mental health. The repetitive motions and focus create a calming experience that can reduce stress and anxiety. This form of art fosters creativity, offering a sense of accomplishment and pride as you see your work come together.