Health Amid Hardship
How to nurture well-being during difficult times
During difficult times, the importance of nurturing our well-being cannot be overstated. September holds special significance as it is National Recovery and Suicide Awareness month, a time to shed light on these critical aspects of mental health. During life's challenges, shifting our attention toward our mental, emotional, and physical well-being moves beyond typical self-care and becomes a cornerstone of our inner strength as we demonstrate to ourselves resilience and self-compassion.
Included in this months Positive Pulse are several resources for you to use, share and explore. From the Smola Speaker Series archive is Michael Lee's exceptional talk and mindfulness practice on making 'Conscious Choices During Turbulent Times', resources for those looking to help themselves or others with addiction or suicide, an article on a trending buzzword in well-being, and a self-compassion mediation!
The Resilience Blueprint: Enhance Resilience, Nurture Bonds & Elevate Health
Cultivate Mental & Emotional Resilience
"Resilience is the process and outcome of successfully adapting to difficult or challenging life experiences, especially through mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility and adjustment to external and internal demands." - American Psychology Dictionary
- Click HERE for resources on building your resilience
Stay Connected to Friends & Loved Ones
- Scheduled Check-ins: To maintain consistent contact
- Virtual Gatherings: To engage and connect
- Participate in Shared Activities: To create connection points
- Practice Active Listening: by giving your full attention to the other person's thoughts and feelings
- Express Gratitude: to share how someone's presence positively impacts your well-being
Prioritize Physical Well-being
Taking care of our physical health becomes a source of strength and resilience in challenging times. Through exercise, proper nutrition, and self-care, we provide ourselves with the energy and vitality required to confront challenges directly.
These resources can provide guidance, support, and connections to others who understand what you're experiencing.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA offers a wealth of resources, treatment locators, and a confidential helpline for those seeking help with substance abuse and mental health issues.
SMART Recovery: SMART Recovery offers science-based tools and support for those dealing with addictive behaviors. Their meetings and resources focus on empowerment and self-management.
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): NIDA is a valuable source of research-based information about substance abuse, addiction treatment, and prevention.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): While NAMI primarily focuses on mental health, it offers resources and support for individuals who are dealing with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA): DRA is a fellowship for people who have a dual diagnosis of substance use disorder and another emotional or psychiatric illness.
National Helpline for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services: Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) This helpline is available 24/7 and provides confidential assistance, referrals, and information for individuals and families struggling with addiction.