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As summer continues, it's important to keep our mental health in check. With so much sunshine and free time, it can be easy to feel overstimulated and emotionally overwhelmed when spending extended periods of time outdoors and around others.
Read on for advice on how to give your mental health the support it needs through the end of the warmer months. Plus, find upcoming events and helpful resources to lean on.
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How Does Summer Affect Mental Health? | |
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Summer is in full swing, but what does this mean for our mental health? For most people, there are significant mental health benefits associated with the summer season including:
- We get a surge of vitamin D from the sun
- We tend to reduce our work hours
- We have more time to spend with family and friends
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However, for others, summer can be difficult in more ways than one:
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Disruption in routine/schedule/habits due to vacation or children being out of school
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Not being able to participate in summer vacations or outdoor activities due to limited finances
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Health reasons preventing participation in summer activities leading to isolation and feelings of loneliness
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Anxiety or avoiding outdoor activities due to concern about physical appearance
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If you've tried implementing some of these tips but still feel like you're struggling with your mental health this time of year, don't hesitate to seek additional help. | |
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder? | |
June was post–traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) awareness month - a chance to talk about this mental health condition many people suffer from after going through extremely traumatic experiences like war, sexual violence, natural disasters, or serious accidents. | | |
Trauma takes many forms, but mental health issues should not be ignored, as they can lead to other health risks and complications, including addiction. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms and risks associated with PTSD and to not let the stigma of mental health issues prevent individuals from seeking help. | |
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Common signs & symptoms of PTSD include: | |
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Not being able to talk about traumatic events
- Intrusive thoughts
- Avoiding people, places, or activities that remind the person of the trauma
- Difficulty sleeping
- Feeling jumpy or easily startled
- Irritability or aggressive behavior
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling guilty or worthless
- Losing interest in activities
- Drug or alcohol consumption increases
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Learn more about the signs and symptoms of PTSD and treatment
that can help.
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Forge VFR & Community News | |
Mets Military Transition Summit | |
Forge's Rachel Heyman, Executive Clinical Director of Rego Park, and Liz Walker, VP of Business Development, spent a day at Citi Field at the Mets Military Transition Summit.
The event was hosted by the NYC Department of Veterans' Services and provided helpful information about building a successful career during the transition back into civilian life.
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Our team was honored to be part of Northport's VET Fest in June.
In addition to providing valuable resources, we connected with and
brought together members of the veteran community.
As a member of the Northport VA Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition, Forge VFR works together with other Veteran Service Organizations to find Veterans where they are.
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WFEA 1370AM Radio Interview
Marine Corps veteran and Forge VFR's Government Relations Manager, Dalton McLaughlin was a guest on WFEA’s Morning Update in July discussing mental health and substance use treatment designed for veterans & first responders.
Listen Here
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New York State Transportation Authority Police Department (MTAPD)
We have partnered with the MTAPD and their newly formed Peer Support Unit to provide mental health and substance use treatment options.
Our goal is to ensure that NY MTAPD officers are supported and have access to resources specifically designed to address their unique mental health and well-being needs.
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The Partnership for Public Health
The New Hampshire Department of Military Affairs and Veteran Services (DMAVS) has funded the Partnership for Public Health to promote veteran suicide prevention state-wide.
To increase mental health support and decrease social isolation for service members, Forge VFR is coordinating a veteran suicide coalition in the greater Manchester area.
The coalition will provide services including wellness trainings, outreach events, firearms safety, suicide prevention training, and more.
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Reps For Responders
Last month Forge Health Paramus had the pleasure of hosting the Reps For Responders team. Reps For Responders is a nonprofit organization that supports the mental health and well-being of veterans and first responders through physical activity, proper nutrition, social connection, and a variety of clinical treatment modalities.
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For partnership and collaborative opportunities, contact Jason Palamara. | |
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Braintree First H.E.L.P. Suicide Walk and Run
Hosted by First Help, proceeds of this walk will fund care packages for families and departments after a suicide, grief camps, training, and other costs associated with awareness and prevention.
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Date: Saturday, August 26, 2023
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Time: 10:00 am - 1:30 pm
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Location: Braintree High School, 128 Town Street, Braintree, MA 02184
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Whether in-person or virtually, we are always here for you and your loved ones. | | | | |
