Having regular conversations about mental health to break the stigma
July 3rd is Start the Conversation Day, which makes it a great day to have conversations about mental health. LaShawn Paul, founder of Start the Conversation Day, founder and lead clinician of Social Work Diva said in an interview for Bustle, “It takes one person to start the conversation, but everyone else has to be willing and open and vulnerable.” Start the Conversation with your friends and loved ones on mental health, and be willing to listen when they share – whether it’s sharing personal experiences, discussing new statistics, or providing valuable information. It can be intimidating to have these uncomfortable conversations, but the more often you do it the less uncomfortable they will become.
Talking about mental health can help you and those you tell feel less alone. It can really deepen your emotional connections with your loved ones when you share your mental health struggles, stories, or coping strategies. Sharing experiences can create a sense of solidarity and reassurance, dispelling feelings of isolation and fostering empathy.
Moreover, discussing mental health openly helps break down the barriers of stigma that still surround these issues. Each conversation serves as a small yet powerful step toward challenging misconceptions and normalizing discussions about mental well-being. As conversations become more frequent and normalized, the stigma surrounding mental health diminishes, paving the way for greater acceptance and support within communities.
While it’s natural to feel hesitant or uncomfortable at first, the benefits of starting the conversation outweigh the initial discomfort. Talking about mental health not only enhances personal well-being but also contributes to a more compassionate and understanding society. So, on Start the Conversation Day and beyond, let’s embrace the opportunity to speak openly and compassionately about mental health, fostering connections and breaking down stigma one conversation at a time.
DAISY’s Random Acts of Kindness These are some ways DAISY is spreading kindness this month
Talking about mental health with her friends of course! She is starting the conversation! She is also going to be listening actively when they share about mental health.
Sharing information and resources on mental health – like this article on gratitude.
Connecting with her friend by practicing self care together. DAISY will help break the stigma by sharing her favorite self care activities with her friend – like reading a book she enjoys with a hot tea.
The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has some other great ideas, and they even have a calendar with a different act of kindness every day!
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month! June 27 is PTSD Awareness Day
Announcements
We are gearing up for Mental Health Resources Day 2025, to be held in Houston again. We are so grateful for our participants in our 2024 event, and hope to have even more speakers and more fun in 2025.
If you or someone you know would like to speak, provide sponsorship, or otherwise get involved with our MHRD 2025, you can respond to this email or reach out to seanda@proton.me Please also share our flyer!
Just a Piece of You
How “just” puts a lid on you and those around you
“I am just a student.” “They are just a cashier.” “I am just a civil engineer.”
Most of us have found ourselves saying something like that. Whether we’re trying to put ourselves down or simply downplay our accomplishments, the word “just” tends to sneak into our vocabulary more often than we realize. But what if I told you that every time you use that word, you’re inadvertently putting a lid on your own potential and diminishing the uniqueness of those around you?
In a world where labels often define us, it’s easy to fall into the trap of reducing ourselves and others to mere titles or roles. But the truth is, behind every “just” lies a wealth of experiences, talents, and aspirations waiting to be acknowledged and celebrated.
Take the example of a student. Sure, they may spend their days buried in textbooks and lectures, but they’re also dreamers, thinkers, and future leaders in the making. By slapping a “just” in front of their identity, we limit their potential and overlook the countless ways in which they contribute to the world around them.
Similarly, when we refer to someone as “just a cashier” or “just a civil engineer,” we fail to recognize the complexity of their skills and the value they bring to their respective fields. Behind the uniform or the job title lies a person with a unique story, passions, and talents that extend far beyond the confines of their profession.
But it’s not just about how we perceive ourselves—it’s also about how we perceive others. When we label someone as “just” anything, we place them in a box, effectively shutting out the possibility of seeing them for who they truly are. This not only limits our understanding of their potential but also perpetuates stereotypes and undermines the richness of human diversity.
So the next time you catch yourself using the word “just,” pause for a moment and consider the implications. Instead of diminishing yourself or those around you, embrace the full spectrum of human potential and celebrate the uniqueness of every individual.
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, X, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
As the semester draws to a close and summer vacation approaches, it is becoming increasingly hotter across the United States. Because of the heat, it can be more uncomfortable and difficult to exercise, especially if you lack access to an indoor gym. There are a myriad ways to beat the heat and keep your physical health in mind this summer though!
Hydration is of course the most important thing to keep in mind as you sweat or spend time in the sun. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise and outdoor activities. It can also be beneficial to consume electrolyte-replenishing drinks and foods, like pickle juice and bananas. Even swimming uses your body’s water stores, so plan to be drinking a lot of water as you stay active this summer.
Timing your outdoor activities can help you avoid the hottest parts of the day. Early in the morning is typically the coolest part of the day, and also touts the lowest UV index, so you can worry less about getting sunburnt as well. There are many weather apps and websites that can show you the temperature and UV index by the hour, so you can plan out your day based on the given information; it may not be entirely accurate, but these weather apps give you the best chance for minimizing heat and UV exposure.
Indoor workouts are also a great option, even if you do not have access to equipment. There are so many great Youtube videos for workouts tailored to a variety of different needs, whether they are no equipment, limited mobility, or “beginner friendly.” Pilates and yoga can be great starting points. If a certain video or “influencer” doesn’t fit your physical or mental needs, look for some that do! It is important to find exercises that motivate you, make you feel good, and are good for your wellbeing.
It is great to keep your body moving and to keep physical exercise in your life when possible, but as the seasons change, our bodies and mindsets change. It is okay to change your workout routine, and we recommend keeping hydration, timing, and alternative exercises in mind in the coming months.
DAISY’s Random Acts of Kindness
These are some ways DAISY is spreading kindness this month
Helping a friend clean. DAISY helped her friend do some Spring cleaning! Cleaning with a friend is not only quicker, but more fun!
Picking up litter. When DAISY goes for a walk and sees a piece of trash, she safely disposes of it! She put in extra effort this month to pick up more litter when she is out of the house. Remember: safety first. Wear gloves when picking up litter, and be extra careful with any glass.
Donating the clothes she no longer wears. DAISY’s spring cleaning made her realize she has some clothes that no longer fit her or her her style. She has no ideas to “upcycle” or alter these items to help fit her life currently, so she is going to donate them to a local secondhand shop.
The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has some other great ideas, and they even have a calendar with a different act of kindness every day!
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
April is appropriately deemed the National Stress Awareness Month… taxes, end of the semester approaching, allergies. We’re not going to tell you not to stress about these things -stress is a part of life and manageable stress can even be beneficial for your health. We are going to tell you some ways to help cope with and reduce the effects of your stress.
Physical health is a big part of managing stress, from exercise to nutrition and sleep. Physical activity is our number one recommendation for stress management! Especially if you can pair exercise with nature. Taking a walk around a park, roller skating at a skate park, hiking, and doing yoga in your backyard are all great examples of how to pair exercise with nature to help produce “happy hormones” and reduce the feelings of stress on your body. There are other ways to get moving though – dancing, cleaning, playing tag, and numerous other activities are great for your physical and mental wellbeing. Eating enough nutrient-rich foods is also important; without enough of the right nutrients, our bodies struggle to handle stress. Fiber has been shown to be incredibly important in maintaining gut health, which in turn helps take care of our brain’s health! Leafy greens, fruits and vegetables are great sources of fiber and should be incorporated into your diet when possible. Your diet is vital for your physical and mental health. Sleep is also very important, because our bodies use sleep to maintain our brains, immune systems, and memories. Getting enough sleep (typically 7-9 hours are recommended) and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can be beneficial for your mental health and ability to manage stress. Your physical health is one of the most important factors in coping with stress.
DAISY’s Reading
The Cuckoo’s Egg: Tracking a Spy Through the Maze of Computer Espionage by Clifford Stoll
The Cuckoo’s Egg is about an astronomer (Cliff Stoll) working as a systems manager at Lawrence Berkley Lab who finds an unwelcome visitor on Lawrence’s computer systems. With some help from the CIA, FBI, and foreign intelligence agencies, he unveils the hacker and the people supporting them.
This book is a bit of a long read but it is quite a page-turner! DAISY wanted to keep reading to find out what Stoll and the hacker would do next. A really interesting read from a time before the internet was as accessible as it is now.
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
¹ *trigger warning: discussion of self harm* https://www.inspiremalibu.com/blog/mental-health/march-self-injury-awareness-month/
²*trigger warning: discussion of self harm* https://www.lifesigns.org.uk/siad/
Mental Health Resources Day
January 13th is Mental Health Resources Day, and we celebrated this year with our inaugural MHR Day Fair. We are so pleased that we were able to pull off this event, and we could not have done it without the dedicated members of the Houston community and the mental health space. We would like to thank the following individuals and groups:
Be Smart (Isha Archer)
Disability Rights Texas (LaRita Lockhart-Brown)
Houston CIRT/Houston Police Department Mental Health Division
Janssen Neuroscience (Hannah Yterdal)
Kingwood Pines Hospital (Monica Garcia-Guinessey)
Mosaic Tree Counseling (Warren Barrett)
MoveNation Dance Academy (Jennifer San Miguel)
Once Ann Again Therapy (Jessica Johnson)
Westpark Springs (Marie Morrow) James Ellis Jr. – NAMI
Zayna Fulton – SAMHSA
Niesy Bevilacqua – MuttsTraing
Margaret Alvarez – My Artsy Coach
Jessica Johnson, Psycotherapist/CEO – Once Ann Again Therapy
“Pawsitive” Mental Health Practices
How pets and pet therapy can benefit your mental health
Having pets or visiting with animals can be beneficial to your mental health in a myriad of ways. Petting or cuddling can help you feel happier, calmer, and less anxious¹. Some pets can also provide you with a sense of purpose, a routine, and a reason to go outside or play more. If your pet needs to be fed every day, taken for a walk, etc., it can give you more motivation to have healthy practices.
For those that don’t have a pet of your own, there are some other ways to benefit from animals or pets, like going to your local zoo (you could even look for a petting zoo!), volunteering at a local animal shelter, walking in a neighborhood where a lot of people walk their dogs (you could make two friends – a dog and their owner!). Going outside in general is a great way to feel connected to animals – could you learn what birds live in your area and practice identifying them? Animals and pets are more beneficial for your mental wellness than you may even realize!
1. Barker, Sandra B., and Kathryn S. Dawson. “The Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Anxiety Ratings of Hospitalized Psychiatric Patients.” Anthrozoös, vol. 20, no. 2, 2007.
DAISY’s Random Acts of Kindness
These are some ways DAISY is spreading kindness this month
Cooking a meal for her sick friend. DAISY loves to try to make nutritious, healthful foods, so she is preparing something special for her friend that is sick. Could you bake or cook something for your friends? Or better yet, could you cook something together?
Complimenting people. DAISY is really good at picking out things to compliment – she always tells people how much she likes their outfit or smile, or she tells her friends how funny and smart they are. She also tries not to point out “flaws” or things that cannot be fixed within two minutes – she might tell someone they have a piece of lettuce in their teeth, but she would not tell them their teeth are crooked.
Reaching out to someone she hasn’t heard from in a while. Maybe you have an old friend or cousin who would like to chat and reconnect!
The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has some other great ideas, and they even have a calendar with a different act of kindness every day!
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
February is a great month to reconnect with our mental health practices, our friends, and nature. Despite the cold and gloom that many Americans are feeling, February can serve as a month to boost our mental wellness. As the New Year’s resolutions and accompanying excitement subside, try to practice self compassion and self care.
Connection as a Mental Health Tool
How connection to others can benefit your mental health
Humans are social animals. We need to interact with others to thrive and survive. Connecting to others can provide us with many benefits, such as:
Improving our ability to recover from stress, anxiety, and depression (ie increasing RESILIENCE). Social connection can help us cope with negative emotions, provide us with emotional support, and enhance our ability to deal with adversity. When we get to know people–and we allow them to know us–we can share our burdens and offer assistance and encouragement for navigating the travails of life. Linking ourselves to others can lead to increasing our “cheering section”; people become invested in us and can provide much-needed encouragement. This process strengthens our ability to recover from challenging times.
Promoting healthy habits and behaviors. Social connection can motivate us to eat well, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight. When we know people care about us, we perceive we are valued and “seen”; feelings of worthiness can enable us to make healthy-er choices for our physical and mental health. Connecting to others can even reduce the risk of engaging in violent and suicidal behaviors.
Improving our sleep, well-being, and quality of life. Social connection can help us relax, enjoy life, and feel satisfied. It can also improve our self-esteem, confidence, and happiness. Spending time with others allows us to discuss challenges and “vent” frustrations. Having a trust-worthy outlet to express emotions–even the not-so-good ones (in a respectful way)–can prevent ruminating on them and/or an escalation of those emotions. Having a trusted “sounding board” (i.e. someone whose intentions you know are positive/”good”) gives us the opportunity to obtain feedback and gain understanding through others’ perceptions.
Reducing our risk of chronic diseases and increasing our longevity. Social connection boosts the immune system, lower blood pressure, and protects us from cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. When we feel better emotionally, we often feel better physically, too. Experiencing connection can increase our sense of well being, which enhances our immune system and reduces inflammation in our bodies. It can also help us live longer, as people with stronger social connections are 50% more likely to survive than those with weakerconnections.
DAISY’s Random Acts of Kindness
These are some ways DAISY is spreading kindness this month
Donating a book to a Little Free Library. DAISY finished reading Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner. She really enjoyed it, and wants others to enjoy it as well, so she found a Little Free Library near her house.
Writing a letter to a loved one. Handwritten letters can brighten up someone’s day. Could you write a letter to your best friend, a parent, or teacher?
Taking a walk with her friend. This simple act is great to get DAISY and her friend outside, and allow them time to hang out in person.
The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has some other great ideas, and they even have a calendar with a different act of kindness every day!
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
If at times you have difficulty slowing your thoughts, YOU ARE NOT ALONE!💚 Racing thoughts–relentless, fast-moving, and uncontrollable thoughts that appear one after another –at “best” are frustrating and at worst cause disruption in managing mental health symptoms and can negatively impact one’s quality of life. While racing thoughts can be a symptom of various mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, they can also be just an irritating annoyance. Racing thoughts can cause impediments in daily life, including difficulty concentrating, insomnia, anxiety, and stress. They can also interfere with daily life and affect an individual’s ability to function normally. But…there IS good news! Racing thoughts can be successfully managed.
To avoid racing thoughts, there are several things you can do. One of the most effective ways to manage racing thoughts is to practice mindfulness meditation.Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment and observing one’s thoughts without judgment; this technique can help in becoming more aware of your thoughts and feelings and learn to control them better. Even going to a quiet place for a brief period of time be helpful. Deep breathing and focusing on something that usually makes you happy (like your child or a pet or an activity you always enjoy) is another easy-ish “tool” to use to gain control over chaotic thoughts.
Also, when we exercise, our bodies create chemicals (neurotransmitters) that help us feel better. If all you can do is go outside and take a walk, you can change your mood and redirect your attention and thoughts.
Racing thoughts–whether obsessive-compulsive thoughts, or a flight of ideas, or rumination–can vary in severity and be a challenging symptom of various mental health conditions. However, there are several things that individuals can do to manage them effectively. Practicing mindfulness meditation, engaging in physical exercise regularly, and seeking professional assistance via cognitive-behavioral therapy are all effective ways to avoid and manage racing thoughts.
What’s DAISY Reading?
Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
DAISY is reading Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner. She has really enjoyed reading this memoir. Zauner is a Korean-American who lost her mom to cancer when she was younger, and she feels a particular connection to her mom, culture, and childhood through food. As a lover of food and humans, DAISY feels really moved by this book. It has made her laugh, cry in her own puppet way, and appreciate her mom a little more. Michelle Zauner is also in a band called “Japanese Breakfast.”
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
Keep an eye out in the coming weeks for updates on our Mental Health Resources Day Fair! The event is going to be held at MacGregor Park in Houston, Texas. A special thanks to our premiere sponsor Move Nation Dance Academy and the local government for their cooperation! Additional details will be provided on our website or you can reach out to our founder, Seanda Blocker, at seandablocker@cr38v3m1nd5.com.
Holidays are Bluer for Some Than Others
The holiday season is often associated with feelings of warmth, joy, and belonging. However, for some people, this time of year can evoke feelings of loneliness, stress, and anxiety. These feelings are often referred to as the “holiday blues.” The holiday blues are a real phenomenon, but they are likely to have different effects than you might think.
There are several things that can be done to address the holiday blues. Easier steps to take for oneself include getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, spending time outdoors, and staying active. Seeking professional help is also an option. According to NAMI, 64% of people with an existing mental illness report that the holidays make their condition worse. It’s important to recognize the signs of significant holiday blues or depression in other people and to encourage them to seek help.
It’s important to note that there is a difference between the holiday blues, which typically go away when the holiday season ends, and more severe depression, which lasts longer and interferes with activities of daily living. If the holiday season passes and you’re still feeling depressed or anxious, it’s best to consult with a medical professional. However, if speaking with a therapist or counselor is too overwhelming, talking with a trusted friend or family member can be an easier way to initially address uncomfortable feelings.
While there is solid evidence that the suicide rate in the United States does not spike around the holidays, the holiday blues can still be a difficult time for some people. According to the U.S. Center for Health Statistics, the suicide rate is highest between April and August. However, low suicide rates don’t necessarily mean that the holiday blues aren’t a real phenomenon. It’s important to recognize the signs of significant holiday blues or depression in other people and to encourage them to seek help.
In summary, the holiday blues are a real phenomenon that can affect anyone, regardless of age. The reasons for sadness during the holidays are varied and can include financial stress, loneliness, grief, and unrealistic expectations. There are several things that can be done to address the holiday blues, including seeking professional help. It’s important to recognize the signs of significant holiday blues or depression in other people and to encourage them to seek help. Remember, the holiday blues are temporary and can be overcome with the right support and resources.
Holiday Traditions and New Year’s Resolutions
DAISY’s favorite ideas
DAISY knows that holidays can be tough, but she would like to share some thoughts on holiday traditions, including New Year’s resolutions.
Decorating, whether with many or few decorations, homemade or bought, can be fun and help your home feel merry!
If you have pets, it can be cute and entertaining to take pictures of them with holiday or winter items (think scarves, Santa hats, etc.)
Baking. Home made cookies, dog treats, banana bread and other snacks can be really therapeutic and help you bond as a family or with your friends!
Resolutions can be motivating for some, but it can also feel overwhelming or disappointing. Most people compare themselves to others, especially with social media being so prevalent. Keep in mind that most social media profiles only shine a spotlight on the “best” parts of people’s lives, and pictures and videos can be heavily edited. Some resolutions that might be more accessible for most people can include things like:
getting outside for 15 minutes/day
eat 2 servings of vegetables/day
cook one new recipe every week
read a book every month
volunteer at a new place (you could start writing letters to inmates through Letters for Change!)
Happy holidays, all!
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
We are so excited this month to debut our new website! A wonderful team of volunteers has been working hard and are prepared to debut the official Creative Mental Wellness website. Our website will be used to provide further updates on our organization, the Mental Health Resources Fair, and all things DAISY. You can visit the website here or by going to www.creative-mental-wellness.com. We are moving forward with the Mental Health Resources Fair so that attendees can learn about local, state, and national mental health resources. This event will be held in Houston on January 13th, 2024. Save the date!
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
How Celebrating Dia de los Muertos Can Heal
Día de los Muertos–or Day of the Dead–is a Mexican holiday that is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. A time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away, the holiday is a celebration of life AND death. It is believed that the spirits of the dead return to the world of the living to be with their families and friends.
The significance of the day lies in the belief that the dead would be insulted by mourning or sadness; instead, it is a time of celebration and joy. Families build altars or ofrendas in their homes and decorate them with flowers, candles, photographs, and other items that the deceased enjoyed in life. The altars are meant to welcome the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living and to show them that they are still loved and remembered.
One of the most significant items used in the decoration of the altars is marigolds. These bright orange flowers are believed to guide the spirits of the dead to the altar. Marigolds are also used to create a path from the cemetery to the altar, so the spirits can find their way home. The strong scent of the marigolds is said to help the spirits find their way back to the world of the living.
The holiday is celebrated with music, food, and parades. People dress up in costumes and paint their faces to look like skulls. The most famous symbol of the holiday is the sugar skull, which is a skull-shaped candy that is decorated with bright colors and patterns. Sugar skulls are often placed on the altars as an offering to the spirits of the dead.
Celebrating Day of the Dead can be a healing experience as it provides an opportunity to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. In addition, this special day of remembrance reminds us that death is a natural part of life and that our loved ones are always with us in spirit. It is a time to celebrate their lives and to reflect on the memories that we shared with them. This can help us to feel more connected to our loved ones and to find comfort in the knowledge that they are still with us in spirit.The holiday is a reminder .
Participating in Day of the Dead celebrations can also be a positive impact on our mental health. It is a time to come together with family and friends and to celebrate life in a shared experience.. This can help us to feel more connected to our community and to find comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone in our grief.
The Power of Volunteering
Volunteering is the act of giving one’s time, skills, and energy to help others without expecting anything in return. It is a noble and rewarding way of contributing to the well-being of society and making a positive difference in the world. But volunteering is not only beneficial for the people and causes that receive the help; it is also immensely valuable for the person who volunteers.
While the term sounds very “other-focused,” service to others actually enhances many aspects of a person’s life. Volunteering helps the person who volunteers by providing opportunities to develop new skills, gain experience, enhance resumes, and advance careers. For example, by volunteering in a hospital, one can learn about medical procedures, patient care, and health administration. By volunteering in a school, one can improve their teaching, communication, and leadership skills. When volunteering for a nonprofit organization, one can gain insight into social issues, fundraising, and project management. These skills and experiences can be useful for personal and professional growth as well as opening up new opportunities in the future. As a side benefit, volunteering provides the volunteer with an opportunity to create relationships that can potentially aid the person professionally.
Improving mental and physical health is another positive outcome of volunteering. Volunteering can reduce stress, combat depression, keep the mind stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. Research shows volunteering can stimulate the release of endorphins, the natural feel-good hormones, in the brain and creates a “helper’s high” that boosts the mood and self-esteem of the volunteer. Volunteering can also foster social connections, which are key for increasing happiness and well-being. By meeting new people, making friends, and building networks, the volunteer can feel less lonely and isolated and more supported and valued. If a person tends to lead a rather sedentary lifestyle, volunteering can help increase physical activity, which can improve the cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. By staying active and engaged, the volunteer can prevent or delay cognitive decline, lower the risk of chronic diseases, and increase their lifespan.
Enabling a person to find meaning and fulfillment in their life is yet another benefit of being a helper. The volunteer can discover their passions, interests, and values and align them with a cause that matters to them. By choosing a volunteer role that matches their personality, skills, and goals, the volunteer can feel more motivated and satisfied with their work. Volunteering can also help the volunteer to make a positive impact on the world and leave a lasting legacy. By seeing the results of their efforts, the volunteer can feel proud and accomplished and know that they have made a difference in someone’s life or in a community.
Another possible way service to others benefits the volunteer is a financial one. Volunteering for events–like the Super Bowl or a concert–affords those who might not have it in their budget to attend the event (as a paying patron) the opportunity to get to have the experience.
There are many different types of volunteering roles available for anyone who wants to help others and themselves. Some of the most common and popular volunteering roles are:
Tutoring or mentoring children or adults who need academic, personal, or professional guidance.
Providing companionship or assistance to seniors, people with disabilities, or people who are ill or isolated.
Serving food, clothing, or shelter to people who are homeless, hungry, or in need.
Advocating or raising awareness for a social, environmental, or political cause that one cares about.
Cleaning, restoring, or conserving a natural or historical site that one values.
Fundraising or donating money, goods, or services to a nonprofit organization that one supports.
Organizing or participating in a community event, such as a festival, a parade, or a sports game, that brings people together and celebrates diversity and culture.
Ushering at a local venue for performing arts.
These are just some examples of the powerful and transformative way volunteering can make a difference. There are many more opportunities and options available for anyone who wants to get involved and give back. The most important thing is to find a volunteer role that suits one’s interests, abilities, and availability and that makes one happy and fulfilled. You can look for local organizations and events to volunteer at, or use websites like Volunteer Match to help you find the right opportunities.
Volunteer Spotlight
One of the volunteers at Creative Mental Wellness volunteers at her local wild animal rescue center. She loves animals and likes supporting this organization. It is very rewarding for her because she gets to support the organization, while interacting with cute critters, like these raccoons!
Resilience and Management
The most pragmatic approach for dealing with mental health challenges
Resilience and management are two important goals for people dealing with mental illness. Resilience refers to the ability to adapt to difficult situations and cope with stress, adversity, or trauma. Building resilience can help protect individuals from various mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. It can also help offset factors that increase the risk of mental health conditions, such as being bullied or previous trauma.¹
Management, on the other hand, refers to the ability to manage symptoms of mental illness and improve overall quality of life. Management strategies may include medication, therapy, self-care, and support from family and friends.²
Tactics for building resilience are actually similar to those utilized for managing symptoms associated with mental health challenges/mental illness. To build resilience–as well as manage symptoms associated with mental health challenges–individuals can take several steps, such as:
CONNECTING with others
VOLUNTEERING
Practicing self-care activities, such as meditation or exercise1
GOING OUTDOORS is another easy-ish, inexpensive way to increase resilience; fresh air and sunshine as well as the natural beauty of the outdoors is an important “tool” in our work for mental health management.
To manage symptoms of mental illness, people can obtain help from a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works best for them.²
It’s important to note that building resilience and managing symptoms of mental illness is a process that takes time and effort. It’s also important to seek support from family and friends when needed (if possible).
Having grace with yourself is the best approach. Just acknowledging you’re struggling is tough to do. And unfortunately, there’s no antidote for mental health challenges nor cure for mental illness. Taking each day–you know the cliche of “one day at a time”–really IS the best “advice.” Dealing with life’s challenges is not easy…which is why it’s so important to be kind and respectful but accountable to yourself. (And in conjunction with CONNECTION–”commiserating” with others who are challenged with similar issues CAN be helpful. You can support one another in dealing with obstacles. That’s called a SUPPORT GROUP, right????😉)
For people dealing with mental health challenges/mental illness, setting resilience and management as goals can be effective. Building resilience can help protect individuals from various mental health conditions while management strategies can help improve overall quality of life. By working together with healthcare providers and loved ones, individuals can build resilience and manage symptoms of mental illness effectively.
DAISY spent time at a pumpkin patch to breathe fresh air, enjoy a walk, and chat with her friend Seanda. This fall, see if you can find local pumpkin patches with pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
January 13, 2024 we will be celebrating the first ever Mental Health Resources Day with a Mental Health Resources Fair! Our 2024 Diamond sponsor is Move Nation Dance Academy. The fair this year will help connect the Houston community to their local mental health resources, including professionals, non-profits and treatment facilities. Local businesses that offer support for mental health will also be invited to participate. There will be games, entertainment, prizes, and an appearance from DAISY the Mental Health Dachsund! It’s easy to get overwhelmed looking for information or support/treatment for mental health, but we think this is a great way to help provide information on mental health and local resources in an unintimidating way. We hope you will join us or support us for this event! Keep your eye out for more details on venue and time.
FALL into a season of SELF CARE!
How Autumn Brings Opportunities for Self (Mental Health) Care
While the fall may bring about stress for many, as tests and holidays are approaching, it also brings cooler weather, football games and other outdoor activities like corn mazes. It’s time to put away those swimsuits and put on a flannel! The more moderate temperatures can give you the opportunity to go enjoy a warm beverage on a walk, pick pumpkins at a local pumpkin patch, or enjoy a festival. These activities provide great photo opportunities, but it is also important to try to spend some time “unplugged” to enjoy the fresh air and company of your loved ones. Let’s explore how you can use fall activities to boost your mental health! Football Games – Autumn wouldn’t be complete without the excitement of football games. Whether you’re cheering for your local team or playing a friendly match with friends, sports activities promote social connections. Being part of a community, whether in the stands or on the field, fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie. These connections are vital for mental health, providing emotional support and reducing feelings of loneliness. Engaging in friendly competition also releases endorphins, improving your mood and overall sense of well-being. Pumpkin picking – Pumpkin patches are really a sight to behold, with pumpkins in every size, shade of orange, and with all sorts of “flaws” like bumps, an odd shape or a too-thin stem. While it may seem too simple to compare pumpkins to bodies, every pumpkin is different as every body is different, and every pumpkin is still valuable. Pumpkin patches can serve as a reminder to not only hold value in your body, but recognize that other bodies hold value too, even if they are not what you see in magazines. State Festivals – Many states hold their state festivals in the fall, giving residents and visitors alike the chance to try a myriad of local foods, music, and other vendors. Festivals are fun to explore with friends or family, immersing yourself in the state’s culture and traditions. Spending time with loved ones outdoors, learning and laughing can greatly boost your “happy hormones” and your overall mental health.
This fall, try to enjoy as many local outdoor activities with your loved ones! DAISY sure will.
DAISY Practices
going outdoors & connecting with others
DAISY is enjoying the cooler weather by getting out and going to football games with her friends! She loves the supportive energy that the fans bring to the games, and the cheerleaders are entertaining to watch. See if your loved ones may be interested in getting into full fan mode and going to a game with you! Don’t be afraid to cheer and show your support!
Thank you for joining us on this mental health journey! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn to stay up to date.
