by Sara Hart | Feb 16, 2021 | Blog
Disclosing your mental illness to those you’re close with can feel like a looming conversation, but it doesn’t have to be. With preparation, telling your loved ones you live with a mental illness can be clear and simple when the time is right. We’ve included some advice for sharing this information with your friends, family or partner below.
When to tell
To put it simply – the best time to disclose your mental illness is when you feel it’s right, and you feel you’re ready. There’s no deadline, so don’t pressure yourself to do it by a specific date. Have the conversation when you’re feeling well, and you have time to properly explain what’s going on, especially if the person you’re telling isn’t well versed in the topic of mental illness.
What to tell
Plan your conversation ahead of time. This allows ample time to prepare an outline, determine key points and delineate next steps. Include specific examples and terminology that your loved ones need to know, such as what you are diagnosed with, how you feel or any triggers they should be aware of. Include ways they can support you and your mental well-being. This will give them clear, …
by Sara Hart | Apr 16, 2020 | Blog
At South Bay Community Services, we’re thankful that social distancing does not mean social isolation. In this digital era, we are able to (virtually) connect with and serve our clients through telehealth services. As we adjust to this new normal during the pandemic, it’s natural for questions to arise. Below, we dive into everything you need to know about telehealth services, so you can continue (or begin!) your journey toward recovery with South Bay.
What is telehealth?
During this period of quarantine, we are able to use telecommunications and virtual technology to provide our clients with the same high-quality care and services they have received in the past.
What do I need to use South Bay’s telehealth services?
All you need is a computer, tablet or phone.
How does it work?
You will be sent a link for the video session. All you have to do is click on it when your session is scheduled to start and dial the call-in number and your personal identification number. If available, you can use the camera and audio on your device.
If you do not have an email address, no worries. Your clinician will provide you with a secure call-in number with …
by Sara Hart | Dec 19, 2019 | Blog
The winter months are usually considered a time of happiness and joy, but for some, it can be a tough period of time to get through. Whether you’re battling anxiety over having to socialize during the holidays, depression over thoughts of a loved one you’ve recently lost, etc., know that you’re not alone. Seasonal Affective Disorder can cause a change in your mood, appetite or sleeping habits, and it’s extremely common during the colder, darker winter months. Below, we offer a few tips on how to overcome seasonal depression.
Spend time in the sun
Take at least a few minutes every day to spend time outdoors or sit near a window. Bright light – both natural and artificial – can improve health outcomes, such as depression and anxiety. So, take a walk when it’s sunny out or purchase sunlight imitators for those dreary days.
Stay active
Although it may be hard to leave your warm bed during the winter, consider partaking in winter sports, holiday shopping with friends or sightseeing to improve your mood. Exercise is a great way to produce endorphins, which trigger positive feelings. Find positive activities that will help you express and control your emotions.
Set limits…
by Sara Hart | Nov 25, 2019 | Blog
The holiday season can bring a mix of emotions to those battling mental health challenges. However, if you choose to reframe the way you look at and respond to certain situations, you might find that you feel recharged and rejuvenated. We encourage you to choose gratitude this holiday season, as allowing yourself to have a grateful mind can positively impact your mental health and well-being. Let us explain!
Gratitude can boost your relationships.
Expressing your appreciation for the relationships you’ve cultivated will make a difference in both your life and theirs. If this makes you feel a little uncomfortable, just remember – chances are they need to hear it more than you know. Text them. Call them. Direct message them. Email them. Visit them in person. The way in which you show your gratitude for others doesn’t matter – just make sure you’ve made it known. Your message of thanks can be as detailed or as brief as you want it to be. A little gratitude can go a long way.
Gratitude can enhance your self-esteem.
Think about how empowered you’ll feel if you stop comparing and begin appreciating. Everyone is following their own path, and grateful people are …
by Sara Hart | Oct 16, 2019 | Blog
For some, the thought of attending a counseling session isn’t easy. In fact, it can feel terrifying. It’s because there’s a stigma placed on mental health – a common misconception that seeing a clinician means there’s something “wrong” with you. We disagree. Asking for help indicates you are taking control of your life and of your mental health. While this can be scary, the things that often scare us are great opportunities for us to step up and grow. You may find that facing your fears will prove to be empowering, rather than petrifying.
Need a little more reassurance? Below, a few South Bay clients share how counseling sessions with our clinicians have impacted their lives.
“I have been attending South Bay for four months. South Bay has helped me regain my morals and values again. It has helped me to build upon my spiritual, physical and mental health. I was at a point where I was lacking in my life, and I needed South Bay. They were right there when I called. Just be open and honest with yourself while you’re here. Work on the issues you need to work on. Allow yourself the opportunity for the staff …
