WACO, TX — 1 in 4 Americans struggle with mental health each year. That number rises significantly during the holidays, with 60% of people reporting feeling stressed, anxious or depressed.
Author and mental health advocate Stan Popovich has been working on mental health struggles for over 20 years.
“At first, it was really frustrating because I didn’t know what was going on and I didn’t know what to do,” he told 25 News. I consulted people to get my life on track.”
As the holiday blues begin for many, Popovich is raising awareness of mental health through her books and publications. website We offer advice to get you through the tough days.
“I’ve been dealing with it for over 20 years, so I’m a little used to it now, but it might be completely new to many people watching this.” I say you should consult with
according to Reported by the National Alliance on Mental Illnessa surge of anxiety and depression around the holidays.
According to the survey, 64% of people diagnosed with mental illness said their symptoms worsened at the end of the year. 68% of those surveyed attributed the increase to financial stress, 66% reported feeling lonely and recalling happier times, and more than half suffered from unrealistic expectations I answer.
Joe Vernier, senior pastor of Cadence Church in Copperas Cove, told 25 News:
Bernier also uses this time of year to share his stories and initiate conversations among the congregation.
“I just wanted people to understand that even though I’m a real person, a church leader and a pastor, we’re also struggling and there are things we have to face.” “To defuse the stigma that the term mental health is bad”
The Church just held its fifth annual Mental Health Sunday event, connecting communities with local resources like Dr. Alton McCallum of Insight Counseling Center.
Dr. McCallum says he has noticed an increased need for his services during the holiday season.
“Someone who doesn’t have someone to spend the holidays with can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and loneliness due to the lack of camaraderie among the people you love and care about.” People can experience anxiety and stress triggered by being with loved ones.”
If you’re one of the millions of people struggling with mental health, Dr. McCallum recommends taking some time each day to reflect.
“Every day, if you have the time or opportunity to reflect on the day, how you’re feeling, what you’ve been through, whether it’s good or bad, it will enhance your life,” he said.
“Not only does it consolidate the day, but it gives you the opportunity to say that today was great, as opposed to the whole last month being bad.”
Pastor Bernier said it is also important to rely on your faith.
“With so much going on in our world and in our communities, it’s really easy to lose trust and lose hope.” I hope.”
And Popovich says he never loses hope that better days will come.
“Don’t give up,” he said. “It starts with the first step. Once you start doing something about it, it will improve in the long run.”
