Dear Shrewsbury Families and Community Members,
In this fast-paced, performance based culture we live in, we all need to be mindful of our mental health. SYFS is working hard to provide education, prevention, treatment and resources designed to ensure good mental health and wellness for our community members.
Try these tips to help find the right balance in your life:
1.Value Yourself - Treat yourself with kindness and respect. Avoid self-criticism.
2.Take Care of Your Body - Taking care of your physical health will improve your mental health! Choose nutritious meals, drink plenty of water, exercise and get enough sleep.
3.Surround Yourself with Good People - Make plans with family and friends. People with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who lack a support network.
4.Give Yourself - Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else. You'll feel good about doing something to help someone in need.
5.Learn How to Deal With Stress - Stress is a part of life. Practice good coping skills: take a nature walk, play with your pet, or try journal writing as a stress reducer. Research shows laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body and reduce stress. Grab that funny friend or watch that funny movie!
6.Quiet Your Mind - Try meditation, mindfulness and/or prayer. Relaxation exercises can improve your state of mind and outlook on life.
7.Set Realistic Goals - Decide what you want to achieve and write down the steps you need to take to realize your goals. Aim high, but be realistic and don't over-schedule! Remember relapse is part of the stages of change, so be gentle on yourself!
8.Break Up the Monotony - Although our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of security and safety, a little change of pace can perk up a tedious schedule!
9.Avoid Alcohol and Drugs - Keep alcohol use to a minumum and avoid other maladaptive substances. Sometimes people use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate, but in reality, they only aggravate problems.
10.Get Help When You Need It - Seeking help is a sign of strength; not a sign of weakness. It's important to remember that treatment is effective, if you're open to doing the work.
If you are facing one of life's difficult challenges, SYFS is here to provide strength, support and comfort. Our compassionate clinicians and staff provide an empathetic and nonjudgmental environment that helps to reduce the confusion and stress of seeking help. Whether you are in need of counseling or social services, please don't hesitate to call on us! We're a team, and we're in this together!
Christine Mowry
Interim Executive Director
