RAGMHI Newsletters

STATE AND NATIONAL RESOURCES
 

473,000

Adults in Iowa have a mental health condition 

 
 

11

1 Person dies in the US dies by suicide every 11 minutes

 
 

37,000

Iowans between the age of 12 and 17 have depression

 
 

WHO WE ARE

Rotary District 6000 has formed a District Chapter of the Rotary Action Group on Mental Health Initiatives. The Chapter has been formed under the guidelines of the Rotary Action Groups and approved by RAGMHI. Recognition as a chapter opens its membership to all, including members of the public. The Chapter members work together to develop programs and initiatives to improve mental health and wellness in our communities.

VISION

Transforming mental illness to mental wellness one life at a time.

MISSION

To create and provide opportunities for all Rotarians in our District to improve their mental, emotional and behavioral health in order to lead a healthy, happy and productive life.
To provide support for clubs in the implementation of mental health projects and initiatives in our district and beyond.
To provide a variety of helpful mental health resources in our District that result in a measurable impact on the mental wellness of our Club members and committees.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

The winter blues and holiday stress are common challenges that many people face during the colder months. Shorter days, reduced sunlight, and colder weather can lead to feelings of sadness, low energy, or a lack of motivation, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The holiday season, while joyful for some, can be a time of heightened stress for others. Pressure to meet expectations, manage finances, and juggle social obligations can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained.
To manage these challenges, it’s important to prioritize self-care. Start by maintaining a regular sleep schedule, as quality rest can significantly improve mood and energy levels. Regular physical activity, even a brisk walk outside, can help alleviate symptoms of SAD and reduce stress. Seeking out natural sunlight when possible, or using light therapy, can also be beneficial during the darker days.
For holiday stress, setting realistic expectations and saying no when necessary, can reduce feelings of overwhelm. It's important to recognize that it’s okay to not be "perfect" during this time of year. Creating time for relaxation, practicing mindfulness, and reaching out for social support—whether through friends, family, or a therapist—can be valuable tools for coping.
Lastly, managing holiday finances by budgeting and prioritizing meaningful gifts or experiences over materialism can ease the stress that often comes with the season. By taking care of both physical and emotional well-being, we can better navigate the winter blues and holiday stress with resilience and balance.
Our District 6000 Chapter of the Rotary Action Group on Mental Health Initiative welcomes anyone across D6000 to join us in the battle against brain health and champion your club to greater understanding of emotional, mental and behavioral health. Register below to join us.
Dr. Paul Daniel
Join the District 6000 Chapter RAGMHI