Wisconsin United for Mental Health Update

• Now anyone can join our Facebook group if they go to our website.  A feature on the WUMH Homepage allows visitors to see the latest Status Updates made by WUMH to its Facebook page.  You can "like" WUMH directly from our website www.wimentalhealth.org - see the large graphic in the center column.


• Pictures from Prevent Suicide Wisconsin launch have been uploaded and can be viewed in our Archives section
  

Upcoming WUMH Events

• WUMH Quarterly Meeting
  December 10, 2010

Other Events of Note

• Through the Eyes of a Child - Advocacy Conference
  November 11-12, 2010
  More details
  
  
• 12th Annual National Survivors of Suicide Day
  Day of Healing for Survivors of Suicide Loss Around the World
  November 20, 2010
  Madison Event Flyer (pdf)
  Milwaukee Event Flyer (pdf)
  All Wisconsin Events
  
  
• 2010 Mental Health Consumer Conference
  November 22-23, 2010
  More details

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Monthly Feature - The Holidays: Wellness and Stress

Unfortunately the holidays are not always a joyous time. As the holiday season approaches, there are some things you can do to minimize stress and to cope if you become overwhelmed. The main stressors during the holidays are managing time and money, dealing with difficult relationships, and living up to expectations (both our own and those of our families and friends). Addressing these issues head-on and taking care of yourself can result in a more enjoyable holiday season.

Taking time before the rush begins to assess what is most important to you and setting boundaries can help fend off frustration and disappointment. Discovering what parts of the season make you most anxious can allow you to identify what changes you can make and what limits to set before the holiday to minimize the effects of these stressors. If you are able to simplify certain aspects of the holidays (travel, gift giving, cooking, cleaning, etc) you will have more time and energy to enjoy the season. Giving yourself permission to say "no" to events that create anxiety or tension can allow you to get more enjoyment out of what is fun and meaningful to you.

Once the celebrations and plans are underway, it is important to take the time to make your physical health a priority.  Make it a priority to get an adequate amount of sleep and exercise and strive for a balanced diet. Not only will you feel physically better, but you could prevent illness and better allow yourself to cope with difficulties and pressures that arise throughout the season. If you find that you are having trouble coping with the pressures, take the time to decompress and blow off steam, so you can continue to celebrate. You may find that time alone, meditation, volunteering, or spending time with those who make you feel positive and loved can help. 

Depression, Anxiety Disorders, or the recent loss of a loved one can make the holidays even more difficult.  In these cases it is even more important to actively manage your stress. Acknowledge your negative feelings and if you are unable to cope by using the aforementioned techniques, don't be afraid to seek professional help. Consider it a gift to yourself.

Sources and additional resources:

• Managing Stress (pdf; X-Plain, The Patient Education Institute)
• Managing Holiday Stress (SAMHSA)
• Managing Holiday Stress (Cleveland Clinic)
• Stress, depression and the holidays: 10 tips for coping (Mayo Clinic)
• Managing Stress Interactive Tutorial [Also available in Spanish] (National Library of Medicine)
• Live your Life Well (Mental Health America)