May 2022 Newsletter

Alumni Angle

We have an alumni panel that comes on Sunday evening. For details, call 805.320.4617.

All Alumni Welcome!

Everyone needs to work on their mental health, everyone. We all have stress and challenges throughout our day and lives. The following are examples of exercises to help improve mental health.

What can trigger depression?

Too much social media, binge eating, loneliness and lack of activity or common triggers. You might want to avoid social media all together, except for a specific purpose. Don’t buy junk food. Spend time with friends and family. Make sure you get exercise every day. These small changes will help decrease feelings of depression.

Where can I get info on depression?

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health is a part of the National Institutes of Health. NCCIH explores the usefulness and safety of medicines and therapies that can be integrated into conventional medical therapies. Another reliable source is the US National Library of Medicines.

How do I learn to meditate?

Research shows that practicing meditation can improve your mood. How can I learn how to meditate? According to National Institutes of Health, use of meditation by US adults tripled between 2012 and 2017. There are many types, but what they all have in common is a quiet comfortable place, focused attention, and an open attitude. You can find meditation classes, books, and websites everywhere. It could be a guided meditation tape found on an internet search, a mindfulness meditation class, or a technique that uses a repeated mantra.

Can support groups help depression?

Sharing your hopes, fears, and experiences with other people suffering from depression can be very valuable and there is probably a depression support group that meets near you. The ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America) has online support groups, and can also help you find a group that meets in your area. You can find the ADAA at www.adaaa.org/supportgroups.

Mind Health Report, July 2021