I'll be taking some time off this summer to enjoy days with my family, hopefully a bit more 'normal' than last summer. But it's hard to know exactly what that's going to look and feel like. As we all try to navigate this summer, I wanted to share some tips from Mental Health First Aid to help you take care of yourselves as you ease back in:
1. Give yourself some grace: It’s OK if you find yourself feeling a bit anxious about COVID-19 restrictions loosening. You may have days where it feels easier than others. Whether you’re overjoyed, reluctant or both, your feelings are valid, and you can adjust at your own pace.
2. Focus on what you can control: You may not be able to control the restrictions in your state, but you can control where you go and how you protect yourself and your mental health. For example, if reading the news is stressful, take a break from reading it every day. Having patience with yourself and others, and staying flexible will also help.
3. Set a new routine: Some aspects of your life may have changed in the last year — and you can expect more change as we move forward. Maybe you worked from home or your kids attended school online. Try creating a new routine to help you ease into the change. This could look like waking up earlier to prepare for the return to the office or making time for physical exercise.
4. Create healthy boundaries: We have all experienced a range of emotions over the last year, and this transition will be different for everyone. Focus on what you are comfortable with and what will be best for your mental health. It’s OK to set boundaries with friends, family and colleagues if you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious. If that feels overwhelming, start small and work from there.
5. Do activities you enjoy: We’ve all missed some activities over the past year, so to help ease into this transition, you can start to think about doing the things you haven’t been able to do. Maybe that’s meeting up with friends at a restaurant, going shopping, or attending your favorite exercise class. But it’s important to remember, you only have to do activities you’re comfortable with – don’t jump back into things too quickly. If you try something new and find yourself feeling overwhelmed, it’s OK to take a step back.
The Weight of Air: A Story of the Lies about Addiction and the Truth about Recovery Order your copy now! 10% of pre-orders made through Split Rock Books benefit the Hub
Although this time is filled with some hope and excitement, returning to different activities may be challenging for many of us. The Hub remains open to service the residents of Philipstown. We encourage you to give us a call at 845-809-5050 or to schedule an appointment with us at www.philipstownhub.org.
Health and Hope,
Danielle Pack McCarthy
Executive Director
Thank you, Shannon!
Special thanks to Shannon Keegan for serving as our Board Chair since the Hub opened. Shannon was a vital part of the creation of the Hub and we are forever grateful for her hard work and leadership.
Welcome, Luke and Katie!
Meet our new Hub Board Co-Chairs Luke Hilpert and Katie Cucchiarella. They are dedicated and enthusiastic members of our Board ready to take on this new role.