Tis’ the Season: Tips on Getting Ahead of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

As the days get shorter and colder, some people experience more than just the typical winter blues. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often occurring during the fall and winter months in the Northern Hemisphere. According to the American Psychiatric Association, SAD is considered a form of major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern, primarily impacting individuals in higher latitudes where winter days are shorter and sunlight is limited (American Psychiatric Association, 2017). Understanding SAD can help us recognize its symptoms and find ways to manage it effectively.

Lisa Rainwater 9/30/24 Lisa Rainwater 9/30/24

Surviving Hurricane Helene: Self-Care Tips & Volunteer Efforts

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, communities in Western North Carolina are in need of assistance. During natural disasters, self-care is crucial for maintaining mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The chaos and uncertainty of such events can cause high levels of stress and anxiety, making it easy to neglect basic needs like sleep, nutrition, and emotional balance. Practicing self-care ensures that individuals stay resilient and able to cope with the demands of the situation. This may involve setting aside moments for relaxation, eating regularly, staying hydrated, and reaching out to loved ones for emotional support. Prioritizing self-care not only helps in managing immediate stress but also strengthens long-term recovery, enabling people to better support themselves and others during these difficult times.

This blog post provides tips on reducing stress due to a natural disaster and provides real-time volunteer opportunities for those wanting to help Western North Carolinians.