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Health & Fitness

A Different Type of Storm Warning



"How to be prepared when you are hit with a "Major Winter Storm" warning! These warnings are all over the news right now, everything is frozen :( 

But today I was thinking about another part to this warning that I don't believe should be ignored. I'm calling it a "Major Winter Depression" warning". And I believe we should have a plan in place, just like we prepare for a "Freezing Blizzard"!

I've heard that January has the highest rate of reported depression. I guess, the holidays are over, no more parties or days off, and spring is a long way away :(  I've been told that the 3rd week of January is the worst cuz the credit card bills begin to roll in :( 

Sadly, in my many years involved in Support/Recovery, I get (too) many phone calls from people struggling with marital issues, depression, or finances. They are looking for counselors, support groups and any other resources or help that I may know of. I guess it's a plus that they are at least actively seeking help-that is positive and proactive. I'm sure there are plenty more that suffer in silence.

My thoughts today are that many of us (myself included) are absolutely ready to put the holidays behind us! I want to get back into my daily routine, my walk/talk therapy with my friend, my clients, classes and workouts! (Yes, my workouts! I feel like a giant carbohydrate-haha!) More than anything I need to "get out of my own head". Let's just say this past Christmas won't go down as a "favorite" for me. So I am totally over being stuck inside by myself-or with my husband with a bad cough/cold! Even my kitty is acting crazy!

But, all that being said, I especially feel bad for the people who are missing out on some much needed paychecks because their place of employment is shut down or they just can't make it to work. Now that's depressing!

This post actually started as a Facebook post-haha! Guess I got way too much to say-haha! I am the director of a weekly event called "Hope Street". We have multiple support groups that meet every Wednesday night. We also have a Facebook page and I was (and I am) going to invite people to share helpful "winter blues" tips, encouraging quotes, or even places to go for help. The very least we can do is encourage and support each other til...what...March maybe? OMG!-it's only January 6th!!!! Free me!!!

**On a serious note: if you are in crisis, call 911 immediately!
*Suicide Prevention Services also has an emergency number: 1-800-273-8255 
*Email HopeStreet@resolutionchurch.org for information regarding Hope Street support groups or for our list of resources.

There is plenty of help out there-don't do life all by yourself! And check out Hope Street Facebook page where I know lots of caring people will encouraging each other  :)

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