The winter blues are common, but the past two years have been particularly stressful, and more people are in need of mental health care than ever before.
Mental health care for those experiencing seasonal depression or who just need someone to talk to is available through the StayWell program administered through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The number is 888-535-6136.
Dr. Debra Pinals of MDHHS said, “People are struggling with the exhaustion of how long we have been dealing with this pandemic, and they’re worried about what will happen in the future. We generally see an uptick in depression and grief during the winter months, and COVID-19 certainly isn’t helping.”
MDHHS offers the following tips for those suffering from winter blues:
Stay active, even if it is doing small things each day.
Eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep.
Keep a schedule and try to get fresh air every day.
Try to find a small pleasure for yourself within each day.
Avoid using too much alcohol and avoid drugs.
Create a buddy system to have someone you can call when you feel down.
Set boundaries on how you want to spend your time in a way that works for you. Be respectful of others who may want things from you, but remember to take care of yourself.
Seek professional help if you need it.
For a free, confidential conversation with a trained Stay Well crisis counselor, dial 888-535-6136 and press “8” at the prompt. The phone line is open 24/7 for any Michigan resident.
Visit Michigan.gov/StayWell to locate the nearest community mental health services program office, register for a virtual support group or access helpful brochures and recorded webinars.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
