Samaritan Counseling Center of Southeastern Michigan

Happy #FeatureFriday ! Today, we present a variety of holiday events happening all around the Metro Detroit area in the following articles. Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, or would just like some colorful winter cheer, there are plenty of events to choose from, some of which are free of charge! We hope you enjoy the season and stay safe! -Kwanzaa offerings: https://lnkd.in/e2ddzkJR -Christmas offerings: https://lnkd.in/e3cpCkgg -Hanukkah offerings: https://lnkd.in/efXna4dw #Holidays #Hanukkah #Kwanzaa #Christmas

Vulnerability is the courage to expose our true selves, embracing imperfections and uncertainties. It allows for deeper connections, personal growth, and the freedom to be authentic. Though often seen as a weakness, vulnerability is actually a powerful strength—creating space for empathy, trust, and genuine human interaction. How does this resonate with you? #Vulnerability #Courage #BreneBrown

Feeling a little more "meh" than usual as the seasons change? You might be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Here are some signs to watch for: ❄️ Persistent Low Mood: Feeling down or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day. ❄️ Fatigue: Struggling with low energy and finding it hard to stay motivated. ❄️ Changes in Sleep Patterns: Sleeping more than usual or having trouble waking up. ❄️ Altered Appetite: Craving carbohydrates or overeating. ❄️ Loss of Interest: Losing interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed. If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you love, know that you're not alone. ☃️ Seeking help from a mental health professional or finding ways to boost your mood—like getting outside for sunlight, exercising, or connecting with others—can make a big difference! #SAD #MentalHealthMatters #SeasonalAffectiveDisorder

As we continue to be mindful of National Stress Free Holiday month, we realize “stress-free” may not be an attainable goal this year. However, our holidays can still be merry and bright by managing our expectations and stress throughout the holiday season. ✨ Take a break from social media—remember, it’s not always real. 🎭 💰 Create a budget and stick to it for holiday expenses. 🙌 Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks when hosting; it brings everyone together! 🛒 Avoid crowds by shopping online or at off-peak times. 💻 Consider virtual gatherings to connect safely with loved ones. #HolidayTips #MentalHealth #StayConnected

Happy #MindfulMonday! ✨ Join us for a mindful moment of deep breathing. Close your eyes and take 5 slow, deep breaths. What do you notice in your body? #breathingexercise #mindfulmoment

Happy #FeatureFriday! Brrr.. it is cold in the Mitten! We are focused on supporting our community members who may be unhoused during this winter season. Keeping with a theme of promoting human rights for all (Human Rights Day 12/10), everyone should have access to warm refuge in these cold months. Check out the following county pages for information on where to locate warming centers in your community and pass this info along! Your ‘post share’ could mean the difference of someone being safe and warm instead of otherwise! Stay safe and warm, everyone! Oakland: https://lnkd.in/eVySK5b9   Wayne: https://lnkd.in/g9AD434W   Washtenaw: https://lnkd.in/gsA7waeh #WarmingCenters #Michigan #WayneCounty #OaklandCounty #WashtenawCounty

Engaging in self-care means being attuned to our own needs and honoring them. Self-care allows us to honor our worthiness, create space for growth, foster a sense of agency, and cultivate hope. How will you take your power back today? ♥️

Take a moment for yourself today. 🌱 Five minutes of reflection can recharge your mind and boost your mood. Breathe, check in, and be kind to yourself. 💚 #WellnessWednesday #MentalHealthMatters

Human Rights Day is celebrated annually on December 10th to honor the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. The declaration set out a common standard for the protection of human rights worldwide, affirming the inherent dignity and equal rights of all individuals. Today serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that remain in ensuring these rights are respected globally. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gXJPPJq #HumanRightsDay (Source: United Nations)

As we approach the holidays, it's important to remember that not everyone is feeling "merry and bright". 🫂 ♥️ Many are experiencing grief - which often is expressed as sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, relief, helplessness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, and many others. Here are some ways to cope with grief and loss during the holidays: ⭐️ Find support from friends/family/community ⭐️ Engage in cultural, religious, social, faith, or other beliefs/rituals ⭐️ Local or virtual grief support groups ⭐️ Local or virtual grief counseling services ⭐️ Artistic expression (writing, drawing, painting, etc.) ⭐️ Physical movement ⭐️ Care for your physical needs (make sure you're eating, drinking water, and sleeping) ⭐️ Turn towards comfort How can you support someone that is grieving? ✅ Don't be afraid to mention the deceased ✅ Instead of "How are you?" ask "How are you feeling today?" ✅ Offer hope without dismissing hard emotions ("You will grieve for as long as you need to. You're a strong person and will find your way through this") ✅ Reach out to them 📞 ✅ Help out! Don't just ask if you can do anything. Be specific when offering. ✅ Assist with meals, like helping with shopping or cooking #HolidayStress #GriefandLoss #HolidaySeason #MentalHealthMatters (Sources: SAMHSA; National Institute on Aging; Harvard Heath)