988 is the new way to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline! The three-digit number, which became available as of July 16, is easy to remember and provides access to help during a mental health crisis. Mental Health Minnesota’s Executive Director, Shannah Mulvihill, spoke with WCCO Radio’s Jason DeRusha during drive time on Friday, July 15 about the importance of 988, what it is, and what we need to do next to ensure that Minnesota calls get answered here in our state. Listen to the interview here.
9 Holiday Stressors and What to Do About Them (While Taking Care of Your Mental Health)
Stores are now bursting with holiday decorations… candy canes, evergreen trees (both plastic and real), an advent calendar of socks, a menorah shaped like a weiner dog… pretty much anything to cash in on the season. Many people love the holiday season and that’s wonderful if you do. However, it’s important to acknowledge that for many individuals, the holidays can be really challenging and they’re more than eager for the festivities to end.
In a (chest)nutshell: having the holiday blues can be tough, but if you have them—know that you’re definitely not alone. So what are some of these stressors, and what can you do to navigate them?
Check out the following list for tips on how to take care of your mental health this holiday season.
Stressor #1: Family
Relationships can be pretty stressful, especially when it comes to the ones we’re born into. Society often places a strong emphasis on family loyalty, and sometimes that can come at a real cost to our well-being, even when we’re dealing with personal challenges, past traumas, or toxic dynamics. Whether you’re navigating a blended family with its competing priorities, trying to handle unruly in-laws, or skillfully sidestepping that uncle who loves to share his favorite conspiracy theories, one thing is clear: family can be a complicated and messy journey.
When it comes to family, setting boundaries is KEY. Here are some quick tips for how to manage boundaries with the ones you love:
1. Identify your boundaries
If you’re not aware of your own limits, it can be tough to establish boundaries with others. Why not take a moment to reflect on what feels comfortable for you (and what doesn’t) ahead of time? This way, you’ll be prepared when someone starts to push those boundaries. Some examples of limits you might consider are the amount of time you spend with certain family members, steering clear of specific conversation topics, or ensuring you carve out some quality alone time. Remember, it’s your responsibility to take care of your needs and advocate for yourself, and doing so is really important!
2. Communicate those boundaries clearly and assertively
Use “I” statements when expressing your feelings to avoid blaming or accusing others. This approach is not only kind but also strategic, as it boosts the likelihood of being heard. For instance, instead of saying, “You always bring up my past,” you might say, “I feel uncomfortable when we talk about my past.”
Be specific about what your boundaries are and clearly say so. It’s okay to be direct and just state something like “I’m not comfortable discussing politics this year.”
Be firm but kind. It’s important to stick to your boundaries, especially when others may not be accustomed to them. Remember, setting a boundary doesn’t have to lead to an argument. Feel free to say “no” when you need to, and kindly reiterate your limits.
3. Practice self-care
It takes time and effort to establish a boundary, especially when it might not be well-received. Remember to take care of yourself so you can continue to advocate for your needs. Making time for breaks, setting limits, and saying “no” are all essential forms of self-care. It’s perfectly okay to prioritize your well-being, even during the holiday season.
Stressor #2: Politics
You may not have noticed, but a pretty big election just happened, and if numbers indicate anything, about half of the country is pretty unhappy about it. It’s none of our business who you voted for or why and we’re happy to keep it that way, but your friends and relatives may not. It’s possible that you yourself may even be the rabble-rouser who brings up politics at the dinner table. This can lead to some passionate debates, hurt feelings, and more than a bit of tension, which can really put a damper on the mood. We’re not suggesting that you should compromise your values for the sake of peace and civility, just be mindful of what you’re diving into! So what should you do when politics comes up at the dinner table? Well, again, it all comes down to respecting boundaries:
Set a boundary: If you aren’t comfortable talking shop this season it’s okay to state that you’d personally like to avoid the topic and then stay the course. You can even work to steer the topic elsewhere by bringing up something else, like a shared hobby, a recent movie, or even a funny story. As we’ve said before, it’s okay to say “no”.
Respect others’ boundaries: It’s great to share topics that you’re passionate about, but if someone mentions they’re not comfortable discussing it, it’s important to respect that boundary and hold back. Let’s not push the issue. Everyone has the right to decide how they want to engage in a conversation, just like you do. We owe it to the people we care about to be mindful of their feelings and experiences.
Stressor #3: Alcohol
A hot toddy, a splash of eggnog, a glass of wine (or a few)—we all have our own unique relationship with alcohol, ranging from abstinence to regular use. During the holidays, alcohol, celebration, and tradition come together, which can make things even more complicated. Perhaps you’ve decided it’s time to take a break from alcohol… or maybe even part ways completely. You might be trying to cut back on your drinking but feel that being around it makes it hard to resist. You may be in recovery but haven’t felt ready to share your journey with others yet. Or maybe you have concerns about someone else’s drinking habits. These situations can certainly cause anxiety, but the best approach is to come prepared with a thoughtful plan.
1. If you’re not drinking:
You don’t owe anyone an explanation. It’s nobody’s business but yours why you’re not drinking. If you say no to an offered a drink and people ask why, you don’t have to share that you’re working on recovery or have a health condition or any number of reasons why people opt not to drink. A simple “I’m just trying it out” is more than enough, and most people will get the message and let it go. If someone does get nosy it’s okay to set a boundary and let them know you’d prefer not to talk about it right now and just move on to the next subject.
2. If you’re trying to reduce or stop:
It really helps to have someone you trust by your side at an event, especially if you want to stick to just one drink or none at all. Sharing your plans with that person can make a big difference. Accountability plays a crucial role, and keeping your goals to yourself can sometimes lead to second-guessing your commitment to cutting back or quitting altogether. You might also think about connecting with a support group beforehand to enhance that accountability and develop some proactive coping strategies together.
3. If you’re dealing with someone else drinking problematically:
This can be quite challenging, as our control over others is often little to none. After expressing your concerns in a calm and private manner, preferably using “I” statements, it’s really up to them how they choose to respond. The priority here is to take care of yourself, which might mean protecting yourself from the situation, avoiding enabling behaviors, or seeking support from a friend or mental health professional. Remember, your own happiness matters and shouldn’t be compromised for someone else’s drinking.
Once someone is under the influence, it’s best to steer clear of confrontation, especially in public. If someone isn’t ready to stop drinking, they will likely continue regardless of what you say, so try not to feel responsible for their choices. If you attempt to persuade them to stop and they choose not to, remember that you haven’t done anything wrong, and there’s nothing you could have said or done to change their behavior.
Stressor #4: Money
Gifting is a big part of the holidays in America and there’s a reason why the big box stores put out candy canes and Christmas trees the day after Halloween. Let’s be honest, gifting can really add up! Even if you decide to skip the stores, homemade gifts can be quite time-consuming to create, and those supplies don’t come for free, either. For parents, the desire to give your children a truly magical holiday experience can come with a hefty price tag. Even preparing a feast for a big family gathering can feel like it’s stretching your budget. And for some, keeping up with traditional holiday celebrations is out of reach altogether. Money, expectations, and obligations, they’re all intertwined and let’s be real, financial stress is one of the top sources of anxiety year-round. So, how do we navigate this?
Let go of shame. There’s no easy fix for money problems but one thing you CAN do islet go of that SHAME. Throw all your “shoulds” out the window. Scale back your expectations—really, let them drop all the way down… into the trash can. Remember, you’re one little human being, not Superman. Despite what society often tells us, our worth isn’t dictated by our finances. Sure, we can’t ignore money entirely, but it shouldn’t be linked to how you feel about yourself. You are more than enough just as you are, presents or no presents, whether dressed to the nines or in an ugly old Christmas sweater. Take a moment to let that sink in: YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH. Just waking up and being present is already a gift. All the presents, parties, and holiday treats are just extras—just icing on the cake. What truly counts is that you’re here, and that alone makes you invaluable, no exceptions.
Stressor #5: Busyness
There are only so many days in the month, so many hours in the day, and so many minutes in the hour. Honestly, the countdown to celebration time can sometimes feel more like a ticking time bomb than a moment of joyful anticipation. It can be tough to carve out time for all those holiday parties, take the kids to festive events, and enjoy precious moments with family and friends, not to mention tackling that gift shopping if it’s part of your holiday routine. When the season shifts from celebration to obligation, we definitely have an issue on our hands. So, what can we do about it?
Curate. There are a million things you could be doing right now, and only one that you can. Fear Of Missing Out (or FOMO) is real but really if you’re not having fun, what’s the point? It’s okay to say “no,” and oftentimes necessary. If you can say “no” and you’re feeling overwhelmed, do it, and don’t feel bad about it!
Be present. Our brains are great at running through our “to-do” list ad nauseam, and it’s easy to worry about all those things we’ve got to do or have coming up. Don’t add to your exhaustion—the past is over and done with and the future isn’t here yet. All of your power to participate and make choices exists in the present moment and that’s where we really need to be. It can be hard, but practicing present-moment mindfulness is a great way to reduce anxiety, calm down, and actually enjoy the experience you’re currently having. Being busy can be tough, but missing out on being present for the things you’re busy with is even tougher. Don’t let life pass you by, take a moment to take a deep breath, ground yourself, and just BE.
Stressor #6: Loneliness
For any number of reasons, some of us don’t have family to go to. Mental health struggles and time may have isolated us from friends and family, in addition to making it harder to meet new people and foster healthy relationships. For aging individuals loneliness can be particularly acute as they begin to lose peers and siblings. Estranged family members may not feel safe or comfortable going home for the holidays. One thing that’s true regardless of who you are is that the more you struggle, the harder it is to reach out, and the easier it is to isolate. Loneliness is tough but we do have a great resource for you to utilize. Our Minnesota Warmline is open every day of the year, including holidays, and we want to hear from you.
Religious traditions are deeply connected to the holiday season. With various celebrations overlapping at the beginning of winter, it really contributes to what we think of as “The Holidays.” Your family or friends might observe specific traditions during this time, or there could be a mix of practices within your group. Perhaps some family members embrace certain traditions while others may not, and the possibilities are endless. Just like politics, religion can sometimes create division, as people often hold strong views and aren’t afraid to share them. Additionally, there are those who have faced religious trauma, making current celebrations feel uncomfortable or unwelcoming for them. Religion can bring up a lot of conflicting feelings, but it’s important to remember that there’s no right or wrong way to celebrate the holidays. When those feelings come up here are some ideas for what to do about them:
Limit your exposure: If you find religion to be particularly stressful, it might help to put some limits on what you’re willing to expose yourself to. Say “no” to events you’re not comfortable attending and find something else to do instead. Make your own tradition and take the time to practice some self-care! Likewise, if someone wants to practice a religious tradition (like a group prayer) that you’re not comfortable with, it’s okay to pass or quietly step away for a moment. You don’t have to participate in anything you don’t want to.
Hold space for disagreement: Just because someone holds a different belief than you do doesn’t make either of you wrong. Differences of opinion are natural, and it’s perfectly okay to acknowledge when someone disagrees with you, then move forward. You can still be kind to one another without sharing the same viewpoint, so let’s focus on avoiding judgment and accusations. And while we’re at it, let’s remember to respect each other’s boundaries! If someone expresses discomfort about discussing a certain topic or taking part in a particular tradition, it’s vital to honor that boundary and their right to choose their level of participation.
Stressor #8: Grief
One of the most common emotions people experience during the holidays is grief, particularly for those who have lost someone dear to them. Fond memories of past holidays can stir up deep feelings of sorrow, making it challenging to experience joy. It’s not just about death, though; the end of a relationship or the loss of something meaningful can also lead to grief. Even a longing for what once was, or for things that never came to pass, can bring about a sense of loss and sadness. Grief is difficult and there are no quick fixes but here are some reminders that can help make things a little easier.
Grieving is a complicated process and there is no “right way” to grieve. It’s all about experiencing your feelings in your own unique way. Try not to expect grief to simply disappear; instead, understand that it’s something we learn to live with. Over time, things do get a bit lighter, but you might always miss the person you love.
It’s also common to feel numb or indifferent at times, as facing our emotions can feel overwhelming. Remember, feeling is part of the healing process, so be gentle with yourself and meet yourself wherever you are on this journey.
Stressor #9: Regular old mental health struggles
Depression? Anxiety? Psychosis? Mania? These aren’t things we can just tuck away in a corner of the garage for later when it might feel easier to face them (and let’s be honest, does that ever really happen?). Mental health challenges don’t operate on our schedules, and they often demand our attention whether we’re ready or not. Seeing others enjoying themselves—whether it’s real or just a façade—can make it feel like we’re the only ones struggling. This can be really isolating, and when we start comparing our feelings to what we believe we should be experiencing, it can amplify the discomfort we’re already dealing with. The most important thing to remember is this:
Comparison is the thief of joy. Comparison can really take away from our happiness. When we’re having a tough time with our mental health, it’s easy to be overly critical of ourselves and feel like we’re all alone in our struggles. But here’s the thing: that’s just not the case. Plus, no one else is walking the same path we are, which makes comparisons pretty pointless. Everyone’s journey is unique, and honestly, it doesn’t matter if someone else seems to be doing better because measuring our success against others is just not fair. Mental health battles can make everything feel more challenging, and we really deserve to own our progress. Comparing our achievements to others’ only serves to undermine the hard work we’ve put in. So, let’s be kind to ourselves and embrace where we are with understanding and compassion.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling this year, know you’re not alone. It can be really challenging to feel grateful when bills are piling up, your mental health is taking a hit, or family drama is afoot and it’s completely understandable to feel a bit bah-humbug during these times. But here’s a thought: there’s likely at least one little thing, even if just for a minute, that you can feel grateful for (like having access to toilet paper, maybe?). In those brief moments, try to remind yourself that there are still reasons to enjoy life and to be present. We hope some of these tips resonated with you, and we want you to remember that you truly matter, your feelings are valid, and you deserve happy holidays, no matter how they unfold.
This year for #BackToSchool we’re keeping it simple and focusing on just one concept: “Unconditional Positive Regard.”
It might sound like something you have to learn in Psych 101, but unconditional positive regard is as simple as expressing empathy, support, and acceptance to someone, regardless of what they say or do. Though it started as a technique for therapists to use with their clients, it’s helpful to use with anyone you love and care about (including yourself).
It’s important to hear the message that “you are enough.” So we’re here to say it — you are enough.
Let’s be honest: school can feel like one big competition.
There’s always something telling you you’re doing “good” or you’re doing “bad,” whether that’s a test score or a grade on an assignment or your GPA (or the timed flexed arm hang in gym class 🤮). Students are under a ton of pressure to “achieve” and to “meet expectations.”
Most of us have been taught from an early age that our value depends on our performance, but we’ve ALL been held to some sort of standard and not met it. We’ve all been compared to others and fallen short. Truthfully, it can feel like we’re constantly being told we’re not good enough and that who we are doesn’t really matter.
It’s not true.
Who you are DOES matter. And nothing you do or don’t do will change that. No grade, no award, no success or failure makes you more or less worthy of love and respect. You are amazing just the way you are. You ARE good enough.
And guess what? You deserve to feel good about yourself, too, so here are some important things to remember as you work on loving and accepting yourself just the way you are:
Don’t compare yourself. It’s a toxic habit. You’re unique and valuable, no matter your grades or accomplishments.
Focus on what matters. Find your passions, express yourself, and discover your purpose.
Do stuff you love. It’ll boost your confidence and make you feel good.
Be yourself. Authenticity is key to happiness and self-worth.
Competition and comparison? Unfortunately they don’t end at graduation. If you’ve ever felt like you failed because you weren’t “productive” enough that day or you’ve ever had to go through the stress of an annual review… you’re still going through it, too. The truth is we could all use someone in our lives who would just say “you’re doing the best you can with what you have and that’s enough.”
That’s absolutely true and we want to remind you that you don’t have to be productive to have value. You ARE valuable. No ifs, ands, or buts. Now, your kid probably isn’t going to be the person to give you that kind of validation and affirmation, but if you need to hear it, THEY DO, TOO.
No, they don’t have a performance review every year, but they’re getting a performance review with every grade and every assessment, every test and every assignment. To build healthy self-esteem, they need to know that they are good enough no matter how good or bad they do.
In psychology this is known as “unconditional positive regard” and there are concrete ways to practice this. Here are some tips on where to start:
Affirm effort, not just outcome.
Suspend judgment and be curious about the “why.”
Trust your teen is doing their best.
Maintain unconditional positive regard, even when they misbehave.
Allow autonomy and learning from mistakes.
Acknowledge the existence of all feelings.
Practice self-compassion and learn from your own mistakes.
We Can RELATE
It’s tough to open up when you’re feeling down. You might worry that no one will understand or that they’ll judge you. But remember… it’s okay to not be okay and you’re not alone.
Reaching out can be scary, but it’s WORTH IT.
Talking to someone who truly gets it can make a huge difference. Our RELATE line volunteers have been there too, so they know exactly what you’re going through. They’re here to listen without judgment, offer support, and remind you that you’re “enough” just the way you are.
💬 RELATE is an online chat for young people, ages 13–25 💬 Chats are answered by young adult volunteers 💬 Provides confidential peer-to-peer support and encouragement
Studies show that half of all mental health disorders begin by the age of 14 and data indicates that mental health struggles have vastly increased over the last decade for young people. Taking a mental health screening is one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.
It’s time to start THINKING DIFFERENTLY about how we take care of mental health and that starts with a focus on wellness as well as illness. An exercise regimen helps keep your body healthy, but what do you do to keep up your mental health?
One way is to make a Wellness Plan. A Mental Health Wellness Plan helps you think through what creates stress for you, how to shift your focus, cope with difficult situations, and take care of your mental health overall.
To remind yourself that you are awesome every day we’ve created a phone wallpaper just for you! To download just open the following file and save to your device.
Take a moment to consider your surroundings. Do you feel safe? Do you have access to health care and grocery stores? Does your home support you, both physically and mentally?
This Mental Health Month, challenge yourself to look at your world and how different factors can affect your mental health.
Where a person is born, lives, learns, works, plays, and gathers, as well as their economic stability and social connections, are part of what is called “social determinants of health” (SDOH). The more these factors work in your favor means you are more likely to have better mental well-being. However, when it seems like the world is working against you, your mental health can suffer.
While many parts of your environment can be out of your control, there are steps you can take to change your space and protect your well-being.
Work toward securing safe and stable housing: This can be challenging due to finances, age, and other reasons, but there are a few things you can try, such as reaching out to state/local agencies to secure housing, removing safety hazards in the home, or finding another space (such as a community center or friend’s home) where you can get the comfort you are missing at home.
Focus on your home: Consider keeping your space tidy, sleep-friendly, and well-ventilated. Surround yourself with items that help you feel calm and positive.
Create bonds with your neighborhood and community: Get to know the people living around you, join or start neighbors-helping-neighbors groups, and support local businesses to challenge gentrification.
Connect with nature: Hike in a forest, sit in a city park, bring a plant inside, or keep the shades open to absorb natural light.
If you’re taking steps to improve your surroundings but are still struggling with your mental health, you may be experiencing signs of a mental health condition. Take a free online mental health screening at to help you figure out what is going on and determine next steps.
The world around us can be both positive and negative – bringing joy and sadness, hope and anxiety. Learn more with Mental Health America’s 2023 Mental Health Month toolkit, which provides free, practical resources, such as how an individual’s environment impacts their mental health, suggestions for making changes to improve and maintain mental well-being, and how to seek help for mental health challenges.
RELATE Online Chat Launches: New Peer-To-Peer Support Service for Youth Ages 13-25
Since the start of the pandemic, more and more people are talking about mental health. An increasing number of folks are starting to see it for what it is: one important component of your overall health and well-being, just like your physical health. But mental health conditions, resources, and conversations can still feel complicated and out of reach, especially if you don’t know where to turn for help. If you’re a young person, ages 13-25, you may also feel like no one can relate to what you’re going through.
And with youth mental health reaching crisis levels, we knew we needed to act. This Mental Health Month, we’re excited to launch our new RELATE service on May 2, 2022 – an online chat run by young adult volunteers who know what it’s like to deal with their own mental health issues. They can relate and they share their experiences and provide compassionate, confidential and anonymous peer-to-peer support and hope for those looking for help. Learn more
But no matter your age or demographics, it’s important to look for common, specific warning signs of mental health conditions or crises. This Mental Health Month, we’re reminded how people are learning about mental health topics for the first time. Having a widespread understanding of the topic can help you be more informed if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health condition or crisis.
Around half of the people in the U.S. will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition at some point in their life, so everyone should know what to look out for. Everyone should have the support needed to thrive. Communities that have been historically and presently oppressed face a deeper mental health burden because of the added impact of trauma, oppression, and harm.
There’s often no one single cause for a mental health condition. Instead, there are many possible risk factors that can influence how likely a person is to experience a mental health condition or how serious the symptoms may be.
Some risk factors for mental health conditions include: trauma, which can be a one-time event or ongoing; your environment and how it impacts your health and quality of life (also known as social determinants of health like financial stability and health care access); genetics; brain chemistry; and your habits and lifestyle such as a lack of sleep.
Of course, understanding the risk factors for a mental health condition can be more difficult when it’s your own mental health. Take time to ask yourself about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to see if this is part of a pattern that may be caused by a mental health condition.
Here are some questions to get you started:
Have things that used to feel easy started feeling difficult?
Does the idea of doing daily tasks like making your bed now feel really, really hard?
Have you lost interest in activities and hobbies you used to enjoy?
Do you feel irritated, possibly to the point of lashing out at people you care about?
Our society focuses much more on physical health than mental health, but both are equally important. If you are concerned about your mental health, there are several options available.
You are not alone – help is out there, and recovery is possible. It may be hard to talk about your concerns, but simply acknowledging to yourself that you’re struggling is a really big step.
Taking a screen at mentalhealthmn.org/work/screening can help you to better understand what you are experiencing and get helpful resources.
At Mental Health Minnesota, we have free, accessible resources available to help youth, families and adults get support for any mental health concern or diagnosis before #B4Stage4 or before a crisis:
RELATE:New, peer-to-peer online chat support service run by young adults for youth ages 13-25 launching May 2, 2022
Minnesota Warmline – Certified Peer Support Specialists offer free support to anyone struggling with mental health concerns
Mental Health Helpline – Mental health resource, information and local provider referrals
Fact Sheets: Back To Basics – Practical Mental Health Information
Mental Health Minnesota recently received Charities Review Council’s Meets Standards® seal, a visual marker on nonprofit strength. Nonprofit organizations, such as Mental Health Minnesota, earn the Meets Standards® seal by voluntarily participating in Charities Review Council’s Accountability Wizard® review process.
The only web-based product of its kind, the Accountability Wizard® is a time-tested tool, elevated by nationally recognized capacity building practitioners and philanthropic thought leaders. The Accountability Wizard® is based on Charities Review Council’s 25 Accountability Standards®, a balance of nonprofit sector promising practices, public expectations, and legal requirements, representing the shared expectations between donors and nonprofits.
The review process examined four key areas: Public Disclosure, Governance, Financial Activity, and Fundraising. As a result, Mental Health Minnesota has aligned its practices, policies and procedures to widely accepted standards of accountability, leading our organization to greater strength, efficacy and to the achievement of the Meets Standards® seal. By participating in the Accountability Wizard® review process, Mental Health Minnesota demonstrates responsibility, integrity and transparency to donors as well as the general public. Mental Health Minnesota’s full review report is available online at www.smartgivers.org, and the organization will also be listed in Charities Review Council’s bi-annual Smart Giver Newsletter.
This year for Mental Illness Awareness Week, October 3-10, 2021, we are joining Mental Health America (MHA) to raise awareness of mental health conditions that are often misunderstood. MHA created this theme after listening to our community, where many felt that their diagnoses weren’t at the forefront of the mental health conversation.
These conditions include Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Dissociative Disorders, Paranoia and Delusional Disorders, and other conditions that don’t fit into specific diagnoses – known as Not Otherwise Specified (NOS).
The week culminates in World Mental Health Day on October 10. This year’s theme, Mental health care for all: let’s make it a reality, offers an opportunity for our global community to reflect on how we can make mental health services and resources accessible to all.
At Mental Health Minnesota, we have free, accessible resources available to help children, families and adults get support for any mental health concern or diagnosis before #B4Stage4 or before a crisis:
Minnesota Warmline – Certified Peer Support Specialists offer free support to anyone struggling with mental health concerns
Mental Health Helpline – mental health resource, information and local provider referrals
833-HERE4MN – licensed mental health providers offer free support to anyone struggling during the pandemic
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
PRESENCE OF OBSESSIONS:
Common obsessions include: contamination, losing control, physical harm, symmetry, unwanted sexual thoughts
Intrusive and unwanted thoughts, urges, or images that a person can’t stop thinking about
PRESENCE OF COMPULSIONS:
Repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to do, either to reduce an obsession or according to rigid rules
Common compulsions include: washing and cleaning, checking, repeating, counting, reciting a word or phrase
DISRUPTION:
Thoughts and/or behaviors associated with OCD are time-consuming and interfere with daily life
RELATED DISORDERS INCLUDE:
Body dysmorphic disorder
Hoarding disorder
Trichotillomania (hair-pulling)
Excoriation (skin-picking)
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ADHD
People who have ADHD may have all or some of the following signs and symptoms:
InChildren:
Inattention
Difficulty following instructions
Difficulty focusing on tasks
Frequently losing or misplacing things at school and home
Forgetfulness
Easily distracted or has difficulty listening
Lacking attention to detail or making careless mistakes
Disorganization
Often does not complete homework or tasks
Hyperactivity-Impulsivity
Is fidgety
Runs or climbs inappropriately
Talks excessively
Difficulty playing quietly
Always on the go
Blurts out answers
Has trouble waiting their turn
Often interrupts
In adults:
Distractibility
Disorganization
Forgetfulness
Procrastination
Chronic lateness
Chronic boredom
Anxiety
Depression
Low self-esteem
Mood swings
Employment problems
Restlessness
Substance abuse or addictions
Relationship problems
Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BPD
Frantic efforts to avoid real or perceived abandonment
Intense mood swings lasting hours or days
Impulsivity and/or risky behavior
Unstable intense relationships
Self-injurious or suicidal threats or behaviors
Acts of self-sabotage
Chronic feelings of emptiness
Inappropriate, intense anger and rage
Unstable sense of self, including changing goals and values
Dissociation and feelings of detachment
Trouble trusting others
Disassociative Disorders
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DISASSOCIATIVE DISORDERS
Out-of-body experiences
Feeling like you’re a different person sometimes
Feeling emotionally numb or detached
Having an altered sense of time
Trouble remembering personal details
Forgetfulness about things you’ve said or done
TYPES OF DISASSOCIATIVE DISORDERS
Dissociative Identity Disorder
Dissociative Amnesia
Depersonalization/ Derealization Disorder
Other Specified Dissociative Disorder
Unspecified Dissociative Disorder
Paranoia and Delusion
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PARANOIA AND DELUSIONS
When a person has paranoia or delusions, but no other symptoms (like hearing or seeing things that aren’t there), they might have what is called a delusional disorder. Because only thoughts are impacted, a person with delusional disorder can usually work and function in everyday life, however, their lives may be limited and isolated. People who have delusional disorder may have all or some of the following signs and symptoms:
Intense and irrational mistrust or suspicion
Hypervigilance
Difficulty with forgiveness
Defensive attitude in response to imagined criticism
Preoccupation with hidden motives
Fear of being deceived or taken advantage of
Inability to relax
Being argumentative
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SAD
DEPRESSION: Misery, guilt, loss of self-esteem, hopelessness, diminished interest in activities, despair, and apathy
ANXIETY: Tension and inability to tolerate stress
MOOD CHANGES: Extremes of mood and, in some, periods of mania in spring and summer
SLEEP PROBLEMS: Oversleeping and difficulty staying awake or, sometimes, disturbed sleep and early morning waking
LETHARGY: Fatigue and inability to carry out normal routines
OVEREATING: Cravings for starchy and sweet foods resulting in weight gain
SOCIAL PROBLEMS: Irritability and desire to avoid social contact
SEXUAL PROBLEMS: Loss of libido and decreased interest in physical contact
Since we’ve been in the midst of a pandemic for a year and a half, it is difficult to remember how important feeling safe is to our mental health. But safety is vital, and if needs like safety aren’t met, a mental health condition may develop.
A lot of kids and teens haven’t been able to feel that sense of safety for a long time. Not only are they dealing with fears that a family member (or they themselves) might be exposed to COVID-19 or the Delta Variant, but some have had to face an abusive home environment, a family financial hardship, or a family loss recently. We know from research that an estimated 1.5 million children worldwide lost a mother, father, or other caregiving relative in the first 14 months of the pandemic.
When a kid or teen experiences this kind of hardship, it can feel as if the world is crashing down on them. That’s why it’s crucial right now, as students return to school, for parents, teachers, and administrators to do everything they can to foster a safe and secure environment. School can be a refuge from some of these difficult situations at home, and a place that students feel out of harm’s way.
Still, even in the safest of environments, we are in a youth mental health crisis, and many students will exhibit symptoms of depression and anxiety as they return to the classroom. It is important to let kids and teens know that support is available. Each school has different types of education and counseling services, so it is best to become familiar with the resources that your school provides.
To take an initial mental health screening, students can access www.MHAScreening.org for a free, confidential, and anonymous mental health test.
There are also serious signs that someone is in crisis and needs more immediate help. These include thoughts or plans of hurting oneself or another person. If you think a child or teen is in immediate danger of taking suicidal action, call the national suicide hotline at 1-800-273-TALK.
At Mental Health Minnesota, we also have free mental health support resources available to help children, families and adults get support #B4stage4 or before a crisis:
Minnesota Warmline – Certified Peer Support Specialists offer free support to anyone struggling with mental health concerns
Mental Health Helpline – mental health resource, information and local provider referrals
833-HERE4MN – licensed mental health providers offer free support to anyone struggling during the pandemic
We are proud to celebrate BIPOC Mental Health Month this July as we come together to highlight this year’s theme “Strength in Communities.” This month we explore alternative mental health supports created by BIPOC and queer and trans-BIPOC (QTBIPOC) communities of color.
These community-developed systems of support fill gaps within mainstream healthcare systems: community care, self-directed care, and culturally-based practices. We’ll explore why these types of care are valid and valuable choices people can make for their mental health.
We are all unique individuals and communities so it is important that we address our specific needs when it comes to mental health. There is no universal or one-size-fits-all practice.
Community care
Community care is an approach used by individuals to support one another and the broader community. For BIPOC and QTBIPOC communities, it can be hard to find mental health care that respects and caters to their needs. In an effort to help provide care for these individuals who may have not found mental health support, communities are creating spaces on their own. These spaces provide healing within communities that understand them better, and the well-being of the individual is intrinsically tied to the well-being of others, including the larger community. Community care focuses on the connections, intentional actions, and efforts to mobilize individuals to support one another.
As a result, community care responds to existing inequities and gaps in resources by creating new structures to bridge gaps and to increase access to meaningful resources through mutual support and aid provided by individuals and broader community-focused efforts.
Examples of community care include Peer Support, which refers to someone who shares the experience of living with a mental health condition or substance use disorder. The peer-to-peer approach is important to mental health recovery and wellness, and that’s why we have certified peer specialists who run our Minnesota Warmline.
Self-directed care
Self-directed care (SDC) is an innovative practice that emphasizes that people with mental health and substance use conditions should have decision-making authority over the services they receive. Individuals are encouraged to take direct responsibility to manage their care, including determining their own needs, deciding how those needs are met, and continuously evaluating the services.
The way people talk about and experience mental health is uniquely shaped by their racial/ethnic backgrounds and cultural experiences. Because SDC gives the individual seeking services the power to decide what works best for them, it allows people from marginalized communities to determine their own priorities in recovery and move beyond traditional systems of care, which weren’t originally designed with them in mind.
Our Mental Health Helpline can be your first source of SDC. Reach out via our online chat or by phone to get connected to information about mental health programs and services that might help you or a loved one.
Culturally-based practices
Culturally-based practices are culturally-rooted customs, behaviors, values, and beliefs passed down through generations that function as “informal systems of support.” These culturally-based practices form part of a socially dynamic framework of assistance provided by and to individuals by their families, friends, and communities.
For generations, culturally-based practices have been erased, set aside, hidden away, or utilized in secret.
However, it is important to shed light on and engage in culturally-based practices in order to heal. By learning about and embracing culturally-based practices, individuals and communities can begin the process of understanding the impacts of historical trauma, reclaiming the honor and pride of their ancestors, their historical knowledge, and the power that exists in connecting with one’s community through shared values, beliefs, and customs.
This past year presented so many different challenges and obstacles that tested our strength and resiliency. The global pandemic forced us to cope with situations we never even imagined, and a lot of us struggled with our mental health as a result. The good news is that there are tools and resources available that can support the well-being of individuals and communities.
Now, more than ever, we need to combat the stigma surrounding mental health concerns. That’s why this Mental Health Month Mental Health Minnesota is highlighting #Tools2Thrive – what individuals can do throughout their daily lives to prioritize mental health, build resiliency, and continue to cope with the obstacles of COVID-19.
Throughout the pandemic, many people who had never experienced mental health challenges found themselves struggling for the first time. During the month of May, we are focusing on different topics that can help process the events of the past year and the feelings that surround them, while also building up skills and supports that extend beyond COVID-19.
We know that the past year forced many to accept tough situations that they had little to no control over. If you found that it impacted your mental health, you aren’t alone. In fact, of the almost half a million individuals that took the anxiety screening at Mental Health Minnesota’s online screening, 79% showed symptoms of moderate to severe anxiety. However, there are practical tools that can help improve your mental health. We are focused on managing anger and frustration, recognizing when trauma may be affecting your mental health, challenging negative thinking patterns, and making time to take care of yourself.
It’s important to remember that working on your mental health and finding tools that help you thrive takes time. Change won’t happen overnight. Instead, by focusing on small changes, you can move through the stressors of the past year and develop long-term strategies to support yourself on an ongoing basis.
A great starting point for anyone who is ready to start prioritizing their mental health is to take a mental health screening at our online screening site. It’s a quick, free, and confidential way for someone to assess their mental health and begin finding hope and healing.
Ultimately, during this month of May, we want to remind everyone that mental illnesses are real, and recovery is possible. By developing your own #Tools2Thrive, it is possible to find balance between life’s ups and downs and continue to cope with the challenges brought on by the pandemic.
Free Support for Your Mental Health
Minnesota Warmline – Certified Peer Support Specialists offer free support to anyone struggling with mental health concerns
