How Fall Affects Your State of Mind
Malorie’s Place Blog 11/3/2024 As the leaves begin to change and the days grow shorter, we often find ourselves experiencing shifts in our moods and energy levels. Fall brings with it a unique atmosphere — one filled with beautiful scenery and cooler weather, but also the reminder that winter is on its way. At Malorie’s Place, we understand how this seasonal transition can impact your mental well-being, and we’re here to help you navigate these changes with insight and support. The Connection Between Fall and Mental Health The seasonal change from summer to fall is more than just a shift in temperature. Many people feel a psychological impact as the daylight hours shorten and the routine of school or work intensifies. Here are a few common ways fall can influence your state of mind: 1. Decreased Daylight and Energy Levels The reduction in sunlight affects the brain’s production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Less sunlight can lead to decreased serotonin levels, which may contribute to feelings of sadness or lethargy. This change is especially noticeable for people who experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or other forms of seasonal depression. 2. Feelings of Nostalgia and Reflection Fall can often bring up feelings of nostalgia. The changing colors and crisp air remind us of past seasons and can make us reflect on our own lives, sometimes triggering emotions tied to memories or life events. While this reflection can be positive, it can also lead to feelings of melancholy or loneliness. 3. Pressure and Expectations As the year begins to wind down, there can be an unspoken pressure to achieve any remaining goals set at the beginning of the year. This added stress can sometimes cause anxiety or self-doubt, making fall a challenging time for those who are already managing mental health concerns. Strategies to Support Your Mental Health This Fall While the changing season can be challenging, there are strategies you can use to help keep your mental health in check. Here are a few ways to embrace fall with a positive mindset: 1. Maximize Exposure to Natural Light Even if sunlight is scarce, getting outside during the daylight hours can help maintain your serotonin levels. Consider taking walks or spending time in nature to lift your mood and maintain energy levels. 2. Create a Cozy and Positive Environment As the weather cools down, it’s a perfect time to make your space feel warm and inviting. Incorporate cozy blankets, warm lighting, and seasonal scents that bring you comfort and joy. These small touches can make a big difference in creating a safe, calming environment that supports your well-being. 3. Connect with Others It’s important to stay connected, especially during the colder months when we may be tempted to withdraw. Reach out to friends, family, or join support groups where you can share your thoughts and feelings. Here at Malorie’s Place, our peer support groups offer a safe space for connection, reflection, and healing. 4. Practice Self-Compassion Remember that it’s okay to slow down and take time for yourself. The shift in seasons can be a good opportunity to reassess your goals, reflect on your progress, and celebrate even the smallest achievements. Embrace this time as an opportunity for self-care. Let Malorie’s Place Support You Through the Season Fall is a time of change and transition, and we understand how challenging it can be to manage these shifts in mood and energy. Malorie’s Place is here to support you with resources, compassion, and a community that truly understands. Whether you’re looking for peer support groups, one-on-one counseling, or simply a safe space to feel understood, we’re here for you every step of the way. As the leaves fall, let go of any pressures or expectations holding you back. Embrace this season as a time of growth, reflection, and healing. Come visit us at Malorie’s Place and find the support you need for this season and beyond. Love Leslie
Maloire’s Place Bog 10/13/24 Rest, Relax, Reflect, Recharge: A Path to a Better You
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel like we’re always on the go, constantly juggling responsibilities and pushing ourselves to the limit. But at Malorie’s Place, we understand the importance of taking a step back to prioritize your well-being. When life feels overwhelming, it’s essential to create space for yourself to rest, relax, reflect, and recharge. Rest: Renew Your Energy Rest isn’t just about sleep; it’s about giving your mind and body a break. Whether it’s taking a short nap, practicing mindfulness, or simply doing nothing for a few moments, rest allows your body to heal and reset. It’s in these moments of stillness that your energy is restored, making it easier to face the challenges ahead. Relax: Let Go of Tension Relaxation is key to reducing stress and tension. It’s about releasing the pressure that builds up from daily life. Activities like deep breathing, yoga, or spending time in nature can help your mind and body to relax. When you allow yourself to unwind, you create a sense of peace and calm, which can lead to better focus, improved mood, and overall well-being. Reflect: Gain Clarity Reflection is an important step in personal growth. By taking time to look inward, you gain clarity about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Reflection allows you to learn from the past and make better decisions moving forward. Journaling, meditating, or simply sitting in quiet contemplation can help you process emotions and discover what truly matters to you. Recharge: Rebuild Your Strength Recharging is the act of replenishing your mental, emotional, and physical energy. Just like a battery, we all need to recharge to function at our best. This can be through activities that bring you joy, whether it’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or engaging in self-care practices like a soothing bath or reading a book. When you recharge, you rebuild your strength to take on whatever comes your way. Why It Matters At Malorie’s Place, we support individuals and families facing the challenges of addiction, grief, Suicidal Ideations, and trauma. We encourage everyone to prioritize self-care, because when you take care of yourself, you are better equipped to care for others. Resting, relaxing, reflecting, and recharging aren’t just luxuries—they’re essential steps on the path to healing and living a more fulfilling life. Remember, taking time for yourself isn’t selfish. It’s an investment in a better, healthier you. Start today—rest, relax, reflect, and recharge. At Malorie’s Place, we’re here to support your journey to well-being. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help you or your loved ones thrive. Call or Text at: 828-216-5046 446 S Main Ave Maiden #SelfCare #MentalHealth #Rest #Reflect #Recharge #HealingJourney
Let’s Talk Depression and how the effects of Fall Season can have on you and How to shake off those chains
Maloirie’s Place Weekly Blog 9/6/24
Let’s Talk Depression and how the effects of Fall Season can have on you and How to shake off those chains
Is there such a thing that the change of season and going into Fall can change your moods and bring on Depression? I googled this and this is what i found:
Seasonal changes can affect mental health in a number of ways, including: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) A type of depression that can occur during certain seasons, usually fall or winter. Symptoms include feelings of depression, tiredness, or low energy.
SAD is thought to be caused by a chemical change in the brain due to shorter days and less daylight. Light therapy and antidepressants can help treat SAD. Family dynamics
The holiday season can trigger grief, guilt, and other painful emotions for people who have lost family, or who have disagreements with family members. New routines Changes in daily habits and routines can be accompanied by big emotions. It's important to communicate your abilities and challenges, and to be confident in your answers.
Connecting with the earth Eating seasonally and getting outside can help you connect more deeply with the earth. Embracing the season Embracing the season with intention and care can help you enjoy its benefits while maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. Falls can impact mental health in a number of ways, including:
Fear of falling A psychological reaction to a fall that can lead to anxiety, loss of confidence, and isolation. This can cause people to be less active, which can increase the risk of further falls. Fear of falling can also lead to depression and agoraphobia. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) In rare cases, a fall can be traumatic enough to cause PTSD. Symptoms include flashbacks and nightmares that cause people to relive the fear, helplessness, and panic they felt during the fall.
Depressive symptoms Falls have been linked to higher levels of depressive symptoms in older adults. Social isolation Falls can lead to a reduction in social participation and social functioning. People who fall may be less likely to participate in social activities. Many people are struggling with their mental health.
Those living a life of recovery and sobriety are especially at risk for mental health issues during this period. (Fall and How It Affects Our Mental Health) In this article they give tips on how to help with SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder
These are the most common symptoms of SAD: Increased sleep and daytime drowsiness Loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed Social withdrawal and increased sensitivity to rejection Grouchiness and anxiety Feelings of guilt and hopelessness Excessive tiredness (fatigue) Decreased sex drive Decreased ability to focus Trouble thinking clearly Increased appetite, especially for sweets and carbohydrates Weight gain Physical problems, such as headaches
Here are some helpful tips to get you through this season of time. To uplift your mood and health, Stay on a good sleep schedule, Exercise, have a support system, light therapy, & good diet. Get a group of friends together, go out to lunch, or dinners, movies, and have some great laughs.
I know I used to not like Fall. I still don't like Winter because I don't like the cold. I’m from upstate NY and winters were brutal there snow from October to mothers day. Winters were rough being gray all the time. Even when I would have bouts of Depression I still loved having light coming into my house and not having blinds or closing my curtains. Pull open the curtains, and let the sun light in you will see a big difference in your mood.
Go out play in the leaves, smell them kick them throw them up in the air as if you were a child again
Fall into Hope: Shedding the weight of Depression at Malorie’s Place If you are struggling with this please reach out to Malorie’s Place.
We would love for you to come and relax in our Reflection Alcove, bring a book, turn oils on, have a foot soak or a foot massage. The alcove is available for 1 hour at a time. We have a Depression/Anxiety/Suicide Peer support Group where a bunch of ladies get together eat, talk, and help each other out.
“You can’t fight this battle alone” Malorie Deal 2017
How to contact Malorie’s Place: Web page: https://maloriesplace.org/ Malorie’s Place Support Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1505206463361110 Malorie’s Place: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1129727278479715 Email:
A stream of resistance and one that keeps forging its path!!
In life we are like a stream while you're in it that provides resistance when you move through it. This resistance can vary depending on factors such as the speed of movement, the surface area of the object moving through the water, and the viscosity of the water. That's why activities like swimming or moving through water require exerting more effort compared to moving through air. So as you forge through a forging river, in a metaphorical sense, It will bring resilience, persistence, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Just as a river forges its path through the land, eroding obstacles and carving its way forward. A person can "forge" through challenges, breaking barriers and progressing despite adversity. This concept emphasizes the strength and determination needed to navigate through: difficult situations whether it be in personal growth overcoming obstacles achieving goals. A forging river & life often reflects the Journey Challenges changes we encounter. The forging river and life involve navigating obstacles, adapting to currents, and seeking the best path forward amidst uncertainty. Just as a river shapes the landscape it flows through, life's experiences shape our character and trajectory. Water and resistance in life can be metaphorically compared in several ways: 1. **Flow vs. Resistance**: Water naturally flows, seeking the path of least resistance. Similarly, in life, when we embrace situations and go with the flow, we often encounter less resistance than when we resist change or challenges. 2. **Adaptability**: Water adapts to its environment, whether it's flowing around obstacles or changing its form depending on temperature. Similarly, in life, being adaptable and flexible can help us navigate through difficult situations more effectively than resisting or fighting against them. 3. **Persistence**: Despite facing resistance such as rocks or dams, water persists and finds a way forward. Similarly, in life, facing obstacles and challenges is inevitable, but persisting and finding alternative solutions can lead to success. 4. **Transformative Power**: Water has the ability to erode and shape landscapes over time. Similarly, in life, facing resistance and challenges can shape and transform us, leading to personal growth and development. 5. **Balance**: Water seeks equilibrium, always finding its own level. Similarly, in life, finding balance between pushing forward and accepting resistance can lead to a more harmonious and fulfilling existence. Overall, the comparison between water and resistance in life highlights the importance of adaptability, persistence, and finding balance in navigating through challenges and obstacles. So my question to you is, are you going to follow the path of least resistance in life? or are you going to allow the resistance of the water & the forging process to change your life The choice is up to you Love Malsmom How to contact Malorie’s Place: Web page: https://maloriesplace.org/ Malorie’s Place Support Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1505206463361110 Malorie’s Place: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1129727278479715 Email:
Streams of Life
Streams of Life There have been and will be many streams in your life. As a stream your life can take many turns. Many gullies that are deep and dangerous, such as Sickness, Divorce, Death, Trauma and Addiction Many waterfalls: A waterfall is a point in a river or stream where water flows over a vertical drop or a series of steep drops. Waterfalls also occur where meltwater drops over the edge of a tabular iceberg or ice shelf. Wikipedia This is how life is: it can take you down to lower parts of yourself in a rushing sweep of emotions. Grief is like this Many shallow places: Shallow places in life are depression, anxiety & Stress it causes you to act in ways you don't like or ways you don't want to feel. It can be a rush: It can cause you to fall over and have a hard time to get back up. And can be a trickle at times: these are light drops of water that can refresh you or cause you to hibernate inside because you don't like to feel the water on your. Water is also a cleanser, refresher, and is for survival. It brings life and growth to you and to the earth without the water we can not exist. While traveling down the streams of life You can not see the next step or turn till you get there There is dry land around you at times There is land flourishing with vegetation around you at times It produces life and wealth It can take Life and wealth You can have many friends along for the ride when the ride is flourishing Most of the time there are a very few hand pick friends that stick with you no matter where the stream takes you. I'm so thankful for my few friends that stick with me, they know who they are, and are not afraid of me growing and going to where my stream is taking me So my life/business lesson: you can not control the stream. You need to hang on and learn how to navigate the stream and go with the flow. Love your life Conduent Les Malsmom