We're heading into the holidays - kicking off with Winter Solstice this weekend!
It can be hard time of year to maintain your physical and mental health, with routines thrown off, more social occasions, more errands - all in the cold and dark.
MaryBeth Goodman with the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Alaska Behavioral Health and other experts recently shared their tips for staying healthy with Alaska's News Source: loom.ly/3igdU4Q
#Holidays #MentalHealth #WellnessforEveryone #AlaskaBehavioralHealth
Grief during the holidays is real and valid. Whether you've lost someone recently or years ago, or you're grieving other losses (relationships, jobs, health, dreams), the holidays can intensify those feelings.
Support options:
Grief counseling/therapy specializing in bereavement
Find local support options through GriefShare: www.griefshare.org
It's okay to not be festive. It's okay to create new traditions. It's okay to feel however you feel. Professional support can help you navigate this difficult season. Call 907-563-1000.
#GriefSupport #HolidayGrief #YouAreNotAlone #AlaskaBehavioralHealth #WellnessforEveryone
Permission slips for the holidays:
✓ You can leave the gathering early
✓ You can skip events that drain you
✓ You can change traditions that no longer serve you
✓ You can ask for help
✓ You can feel multiple emotions at once
✓ You can take a break from family
The "perfect holiday" is the one where you protect your peace. Give yourself permission to do what's best for your mental health. 🌟
#HolidayBoundaries #MentalHealthFirst #SelfCompassion
#AlaskaBehavioralHealth #WellnessforEveryone
Seasonal depression isn't just "the winter blues"—it's a real form of depression that typically occurs during fall and winter months.
Common symptoms include:
➡️Persistent low mood or sadness
➡️Loss of interest in activities
➡️Low energy and fatigue
➡️Changes in sleep patterns
➡️Difficulty concentrating
Learn more about and get some self-care tips from our staff in this blog: loom.ly/fMs6ZrU
If you're experiencing these symptoms, talk to your primary care doctor or a mental health professional. Evidence-based treatments like light therapy, talk therapy, and medication can help. You deserve to feel better.
#SeasonalDepression #SAD #MentalHealthTreatment
❄️ -30°F and still here for you ❄️
The cold won't stop us. The Fairbanks Mobile Crisis Team is out there 24/7/365—no matter the temperature—ready to help our community when it matters most.
Need support? Call 911 or the non-emergency line.
You're never alone in a crisis. 💙
#WellnessforEveryone #AlaskaBehavioralHealth #Fairbanks #MentalHealth
Our Residential Programs had quite the Thanksgiving feast!
Good food, fun games, much to be thankful for! We heard there was a dance off but sadly no video.
#AlaskaBehavioralHealth #WellnessForEveryone #ThrowbackThursday #Thanksgiving
Signs someone might be struggling during the holidays:
🔷Withdrawing from social activities or traditions they usually enjoy
🔷Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
🔷Increased irritability or emotional reactions
🔷Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden
The holidays can amplify existing struggles. A simple "I've noticed you seem different lately—I'm here if you want to talk" can mean everything! Check in on your people. 🤝
#AlaskaBehavioralHealth #WellnessforEveryone #CheckOnYourPeople #MentalHealthAwareness #HolidaySupport
📣 Calling all veterans and military families! We'll be at the Menard Sports Center in Wasilla from 10am-3pm TODAY to showcase all the amazing ways our Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Alaska Behavioral Health supports our Post 9-11 Veterans, Active Duty Service Members and their families.
AKBH has several programs that are ready and able to serve this population as well. If you're looking for support, services or connection... Come see us at the Menard Center!
