CCMH Senior Life Solutions Program Provides Tips to ‘Beat the Winter Blues’
November 29, 2019
CARROLLTON, Mo. – The winter season is upon us, which for many means holiday celebrations filled with family and friends. This builds anticipation for those good times; however, for others this time of year can be a reminder of lost loved ones, lack of access to family traditions, or other changes that may bring about stress and anxiety. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, many people can experience feelings of anxiety or depression during the holiday season, and people who already live with a mental health condition should take extra care to tend to their overall health and wellness. A recent survey showed that 64 percent of people with a diagnosed mental illness report that the holidays make their symptoms worse.
Carroll County Memorial Hospital Senior Life Solutions is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to meet the unique needs of older adults typically ages 65 and older struggling with depression and anxiety often related to aging. They focus on helping seniors in the community navigate difficult life transitions and regain their quality of life not just during the holiday season, but year-round.
“It is important to support our loved ones all year round, but especially during the holiday season,” said Mindie Stovall, Program Director and Registered Nurse. “The holidays bring on significant depression for some as they reflect on loved ones that have passed. Many of our seniors are shut-ins during the winter months, which also increases the risk of depression and isolation. As a community, be aware of those around you who may need support during this time.”
Below is a list of suggestions that may help counteract the holiday blues:
• Get enough sleep or rest
• Spend time with supportive people
• Don’t drink alcohol if you are feeling down
• Take walks
• Don’t isolate yourself
• Forget perfection
• It’s okay to say no
• Stay within budget
• Set reasonable expectations
• Do something you enjoy
• Enjoy all the wonderful food, but don’t binge
• Invite someone who lives alone to dinner
• Volunteer
• Celebrate a loved one’s life by sharing positive memories
• Forgive yourself, we all make mistakes
For some, the holidays can bring on temporary depression, and for others it may be chronic. If you, or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of the winter blues or a difficult life transition, contact Carroll County Memorial Hospital Senior Life Solutions at 660-542-1695 Ext. 3208.
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ABOUT SENIOR LIFE SOLUTIONS
Founded in 2003, Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC) operates inpatient and outpatient programs located in rural communities across the country. PMC was developed with the sole mission to improve the quality of life of older adults living in rural communities. PMC, which operates the Senior Life Solutions outpatient program and multiple inpatient facilities, is one of the largest geriatric mental health management companies within rural hospitals across the United States.
For more information, visit www.psychmc.com.
Carroll County Memorial Hospital (CCMH), the area’s premier healthcare resource, is a 25-bed Critical Access facility serving Carrollton and the surrounding communities. It offers 24-hour emergency care, specialized services such as advanced diagnostics, post-acute skilled care (swing bed) and comprehensive family care. CCMH is dedicated to the Health and Well Being of All We Serve. For more information, visit carrollcountyhospital.org.