As summer winds down, many are thinking about heading back to school, back to work after the end-of-summer vacation, or back into routines that may have been changed a bit over the summer. This may be extra challenging when one has a disability. Transition to fall can bring additional stressors, increasingly shorter days, and many signs of darker, cooler months. All of these can impact how we feel. Some people struggle with seasonal mood changes related to less daylight, the absence of color outside, and more time indoors. For some, darker days outside are the setting for some much darker days inside. Knowing these signs for oneself or about loved ones is crucial as we prepare for the months ahead. As daylight diminishes, finding ways to continue to be in sunlight as much as possible or getting a therapy light may help manage mood (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/in-depth/seasonal-affective-disorder-treatment/art-20048298). Increasing movement options that are available regardless of the weather can also help. When mobility is difficult, there are movement options for individuals with disabilities. See more here: https://udservices.org/physical-activities-adults-disabilities/
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) marks September as National Suicide Prevention Month – “a month to remember the lives lost to suicide, the millions of people who have struggled with suicidal ideation, and acknowledge the individuals, families, and communities that have been impacted. It is also a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope”. Below is information for the individual struggling with suicidal thoughts as well as information for when a loved one is struggling with these thoughts.
Self-care when having thoughts of suicide:
https://988lifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now
Caring for a loved one having thoughts of suicide:
#BeThe1To is the message for National Suicide Prevention Month and beyond promoted by 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline network and its partners are working to change the conversation to suicide prevention and provide education about actions that can promote healing, provide help, and give hope.
Five steps you can take to help prevent suicide in others:
https://www.bethe1to.com/bethe1to-steps-evidence/
Joy Koeppen, LCSW, CBIS
Mental Health Counseling Department Manager