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Spreading Awareness This September

Jaclyn Baker
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The month of September is dedicated to Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and National Recovery Month. This time is meant to reflect and spread hope for those struggling with suicidal thoughts and addiction.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is about having open communication with your peers and checking in on your loved ones. The key message of the campaign is to show that you are not alone. It is also a time to recognize the lives that have been lost to suicide. 

Bringing awareness to the topics is a way to stop the stigma and ensure that people know how important it is to prioritize mental health care. 

National Recovery Month is also held every September to call positive attention to the importance of treatment and recovery, especially for those dealing with mental or substance use disorders. 

Celebrate and recognize the strides made by those who live full and meaningful lives while on medication or in recovery. Remember that you are resilient and recovery in all forms is possible.

This month is a time where the community comes together. It’s important to reach out or listen to mental health advocates, survivors, and allies to continue to educate yourself.

For more information, you can check out the following resources:

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Information | NAMI

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Suicide Prevention Crisis Text Line

Navigating a Mental Health Crisis

National Recovery Month Information

National Recovery Month 2021 Events

The History of NAADAC and the Addiction Profession | YouTube

Coping With Back-To-School Uncertainty

Jaclyn Baker
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It’s no secret that this school year will be far different than most. Children haven’t stepped foot in an actual classroom for many months now, and it’s been quite a unique summer.

The unknown can often be scary, and right now, no one knows for sure what this school year will look like.

Most children love the first day of school. It’s always so nice to catch up with friends, play games and chat about summer. 

This year, children can still have an amazing first day; it’ll just be done virtually. 

Every child is different, and there is no right or wrong way to feel about the first day back. If your child is experiencing some back to school nerves, here’s what to do! 

Talk About It:

Remember, your child has never experienced a first day back quite like this one. 

They may be feeling a little confused, anxious, or scared. 

Talking about our fears and worries can help us better understand and come to terms with them.

Getting Used To The New Normal:

If your child is young, they may not fully understand what the “new normal” means. Sit down with them and let them know exactly what they can expect this year to look like, and encourage them to ask questions.

Once they have a better understanding of what’s going on, you can create a game plan together.

Focus on the Positives:

Whether your child is nervous, afraid or confused, it’s so important to focus on the positives.

You and your child can sit down together and make a list of all the things they are looking forward to this school year. Remind them how fun it will be to experience a new grade, learn new things, and spend time with family. 

Establish a Daily Routine:

Kids thrive on structure. Even though your child will be learning online, it’s still incredibly important for them to go to bed on time, have fun, and connect with friends. 

Now, it may take some time to get back into a routine, but they’ll get there.

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Find Work Holiday Parties Stressful?

Ryan Scott
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You know yourself best. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at a work holiday party, don’t be afraid to leave early, or step out for some air.

Don’t Over Commit

Even if you love parties, attending too many can be stressful.

Remember, the choice is yours. If you ever feel like you have too much on your plate, don’t be afraid to say no to an event or two.

Now, some work parties may be mandatory. This is where you’ll need to pay attention to your instincts.

If an event ever feels like too much, you can always leave a bit early or take a step outside for some fresh air.

Your me-time matters.

Be Mindful

Have you ever spent an entire event glued to your phone?

It’s more common than you think – especially if you tend to feel uncomfortable in social situations.

Here’s a tip. Make a list of ways you can practice mindfulness at every event.

Try your best to appreciate the moment and of course, have fun!

Change Your Thoughts

You know that negative voice in your head that pops up at the worst times?

Well, it’s time to turn that voice off.

This step does require some homework, but it’ll be well worth it in the long run.

Take some time to challenge your thoughts before every party. That way, if any negative thoughts do pop up, you’ll know how to deal with them.

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Most People With Social Anxiety Crave These Things

Most People With Social Anxiety Crave These Things

Ryan Scott
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Just because you have social anxiety, doesn’t mean you don’t crave connection, growth, or confidence. Sound interesting? All you have to do is keep on reading.

Connection

Relationships are such an important part of life. They give us meaning, a sense of security and happiness.

It’s completely normal to feel uncomfortable when trying to meet new people. But the more you practice, the easier it’ll become.

Growth

Personal growth is the recipe to a better and happier you. By reading this article, you’re already one step in the right direction.

Confidence

Confidence isn’t something that develops overnight. It takes time, dedication and bravery.

Those of us with social anxiety, often want to appear confident in social situations.

Every single social interaction is the perfect opportunity to practice.

Make small talk with your sales associate. Ask a stranger for directions. Practice makes perfect.

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How to Manage Social Anxiety

How to Manage Social Anxiety

Ryan Scott
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Wondering how you can get out of that rut and manage your social anxiety? Writing down your goals is a great place to start.

Keeping a Journal: Journaling can help with so many areas in your life… social anxiety included. First things first, you have to figure out what is causing your anxiety in the first place. Are you afraid of saying something embarrassing? Are you afraid of being judged? Are you afraid of crowds? You may not know the answer now. And that’s okay! Journaling your thoughts and actions is a great place to start.

Write Down Goals: Now that you better understand your social anxiety, it’s time to start creating SMART goals. Maybe it’s saying hello to a stranger, or signing up for an improv class.

Your mind can only remember so much. What’s great about writing goals down is you can easily keep track of your progress.

Congratulate Yourself: Celebrate all victories. No goal is too small. Don’t be afraid to be your own best friend.

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