Photo by Tim Marshall on Unsplash By Leah Harris January is National Mental Wellness Month, and it also happens to be the time of year when many people make New Year’s resolutions. While these resolutions typically involve individual acts of self-improvement such as going to the gym or reading more often, research suggests that taking a vow of kindness for 2025 (and beyond) could also greatly improve our quality of life, while also having a positive impact on the world around us.
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Graphic by Alejandro Ramos. Photo by madison lavern on Unsplash By Leah Harris The holiday season is filled with expectations of joy and cheer. But between increased time with extended family, other social obligations, and the cost of gift-giving, it can also be a time of significant stress for Americans.
By Leah Harris The stress Americans feel about the election may be a punchline on late night television shows, but it’s no joke. The American Psychological Association conducts an annual survey about the state of stress in America, and two responses from this year’s survey illustrate the country’s concern about dire consequences.
By Leah Harris Every September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and lived experience advocates are speaking up for anti-carceral approaches to supporting people who live with suicidal intensity. Over the past decade, the voices of lived experience and suicide attempt survivors has grown exponentially in power and influence. These advocates consistently demand voluntary, non-coercive care that honors their identities, culture, voice, choice, and bodily autonomy. Here is just a small selection of some of the voices and organizations speaking out for radical change in how we understand and respond to suicide.
By PEERS Media PEERS is saddened to hear the news of our former colleague and friend Heather Riemer. Please see below for our statement on the matter. For follow up questions, please reach out to our Media team at [email protected]. By Leah Harris Books are good medicine. For as long as the written word has existed, people have found solace and strength in the thoughts of others revealed on the page. The field of bibliotherapy is based on research that shows how reading can nurture our mental health while expanding our minds, as well as our sense of what’s possible for ourselves and our world. Bibliotherapy is a powerful self-help tool as well as a practice to be enjoyed with others in book clubs or other settings. Here are four books to ignite your spirit and imagination in the new year.
Breaking the Holiday Blues: Overcoming Loneliness with the Power of Connection and Kindness12/20/2023 Photo by Kristina Tripkovic on Unsplash By Leah Harris If you’re feeling lonely during the holidays, you’re not alone, and this simple practice might help
Americans are said to suffer from an epidemic of loneliness, which can be amplified during the holiday season with its emphasis on family gatherings and making merry. If you experience more sadness or loneliness during the holidays, it may feel like a small consolation, but you’re far from alone. By Leah Harris It’s been over a month since the Israel-Hamas war began, and the onslaught of news and traumatic images has been taking a major toll on mental health for many. This impact is greatly magnified for those who have a personal connection to the unfolding events, but the vicarious trauma can impact anyone who is exposed to frightening, violent, and distressing content online. Here are some tips for coping with vicarious trauma, for yourself and your loved ones.
Happy Halloween Eve! PEERS got to be to be part of this year's Dia de los Muertos Festival as both an altar artist and a vendor. Our altar, "Crossing the Marigold Bridge", paid tribute to young adults between the ages of 16 - 24 that have lost their lives due to mental health issues and substance use. Our goal was to bring awareness to a growing issue that continues to impact our community and share resources PEERS offers. At our outreach table, PEERS staff connected with the community and shared info on the organization and our ongoing programs. All in all, it was wonderful getting to connect with the community in various ways. Check out some photos from the event, provided by some of our wonderful staff! October 10th is World Mental Health Day! This day is more than just a date on the calendar. It's a reminder for all of us to reflect on our well-being, foster understanding, and promote mental health awareness. Here are five simple yet impactful ways you can make the most of this significant day.
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