Cove Forge Behavioral Health Center

Although February is the shortest month of the year, it can feel like the longest. If you've been feeling depressed, it's not only you. Check out why February is such a gloomy month: http://ow.ly/jGMh102zu8e

Research indicates that as many as 10 million Americans are affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD symptoms are most common in the fall and winter. Experts have identified colder weather, shorter days, and increased isolation as potential risk factors for SAD. In addition to protecting ourselves and our loved ones from COVID-19, it's important to also be aware of the signs and symptoms of SAD. http://ow.ly/4kcG102zu8O

If these darker days have you feeling overly tired and irritated, you could be battling more than just the winter blues. The truth is that approximately 2% of people struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Take a moment to learn about the signs and symptoms of SAD: http://ow.ly/P5Gr102zvx1

February 17 (that's today!) is Random Acts of Kindness Day. During times of great challenge, we all must remember that words of kindness and acts of compassion make a lasting positive difference. There are so many ways to make someone else's day just a bit brighter. This is a fantastic time to consider how we can add more kindness to our lives. Here are some excellent suggestions: http://ow.ly/Hi3O102zt1a

Let's face it: Nowadays, we're constantly connected to our smartphones. And when they're not in our hands, they're within reach. But when we're so focused on our screens, we miss out on experiences we'll always remember. What are your tips for how to take a break from your phone?

Choosing to forgive can be a valuable part of the healing process. But many people don't understand that forgiveness isn't just something to extend to others. In the spirit of generosity that defines the holiday season, please grant yourself the gift of forgiveness, too.

We all hope that the holiday season will be filled with peace, joy, and togetherness. Unfortunately, the holidays can also be extremely stressful. If you're struggling, here are some tips that can help. We'd love to hear your stress management techniques. Share them in the comments!

These days, the constant stream of bad news from around the world can easily become overwhelming. Finding reasons for gratitude can combat this negative emotion. But this habit involves more than just being thankful. When you make gratitude a priority in your life, you'll start to pay more attention to where you are spending your emotional energy. Practicing gratitude doesn't require you to look away from the more troubling aspects of life, but it does remind you of the importance of taking the time to find moments of beauty in every day. http://ow.ly/SX4e50CyygX

Everyone who is recovering from a substance use disorder or healing from a mental health concern is on a unique journey. Don't compare your progress to anyone else's. As you look back on 2020 and prepare for the new year, celebrate your successes and plan to make 2021 your best year yet!

Last week, we shared a post about the importance of gratitude. Appreciating those who have helped you is an admirable way to encourage others to share support. But the many benefits of adopting a grateful mindset don't stop there. If you're in recovery, please take a moment to read this article about the relationship between gratitude and improved well-being:http://ow.ly/SbDN50Cyy6G

We wish you a magnificent (and safe) Thanksgiving!

Halloween is an opportunity for individuals throughout the country to celebrate together. But if you're in recovery from an addiction to alcohol or another drug, this holiday can be frightening for a very personal reason. You understand that parties and other celebratory gatherings can be risky, but you don't want to become isolated from those you care about. Thankfully, you can enjoy Halloween without jeopardizing your recovery. If you follow some simple yet important advice, you can have a ghoulishly good time without using alcohol or other drugs. http://ow.ly/4gBP102qEUd

October traditionally ends with a celebration of candy, costumes, and creativity. This year, though, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has complicated matters. With only a few more days left until the 31st, many communities are still struggling to find the ideal way to celebrate safely. We don't have to cancel Halloween. However, just like we've needed to do so often in 2020, we have to incorporate a few important changes. Read more here about how to have a safe and fun Halloween: http://ow.ly/MXUu102qr38

Gratitude can make us smile about the simplest things or change a single moment into something unforgettable. What reminds you to be grateful? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

We almost always attempt to highlight a hopeful or motivational message in our Monday posts. We do this because we completely understand what a significant challenge it can be to feel inspired and energized at the beginning of a new week. For the millions of people who have ADHD, though, the fight to remain focused and driven can be an ongoing struggle. In a recent Psych Central article, two ADHD experts highlighted a series of strategies that can make a significant positive difference: http://ow.ly/5BUF102pNyI

When you have the chance to describe a friend, family member, or other loved one, you probably find it very easy to highlight the many wonderful qualities that make them so special. Yet so many of us find it difficult to do the same when speaking or thinking about ourselves. This week, we'd like to challenge you to practice positive self-talk. What's one kind thing you can say about yourself? Feel free to write it down, share it here in the comments, or just hold it close in your heart.

Welcome to the 2020 edition of OCD Awareness Week. Data gathered by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) indicates that more than 2 million adults in the U.S. have been living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Signs of this disorder most commonly appear among adults and older adolescents, but children can also be affected. Even though OCD is far from uncommon, many people continue to believe myths and false information. If we all work together, we can create a more understanding world for all who have OCD. Click here for some important basic facts about OCD: http://ow.ly/llNT102p8aW

We have reached the end of Mental Illness Awareness Week. As we bid farewell to MIAW for another year, we are also observing World Mental Health Day. WMHD 2020 is focused on increased investment in mental health. The most productive investment anyone can make for themselves and their families is to give mental health the attention it deserves. Take the time to educate yourself about how to recognize potential warning signs, and don't hesitate to seek professional help when necessary. Today and every day, devote a bit of attention to self-care, vigilance, and support for your loved ones. Read more here: http://ow.ly/1GfF102oYPB

Self-care is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. But your efforts to maintain and improve your well-being must also include monitoring your mental health. Knowledge and understanding play an invaluable role in this endeavor. Today is National Depression Screening Day. If you suspect you may have developed depression, or if you're concerned about a friend or family member, taking a moment to complete a screening may be the optimal next step. You can learn more about depression screenings here: http://ow.ly/ssBh102oMSi

When someone has been struggling with a mental health disorder, getting professional care can be essential to their continued well-being. But many other factors influence quality of life. To make a true and lasting difference in the lives of all who are impacted by mental illness, we have to unite to eliminate shame and stigma. Please raise your voice in support of NAMI's StigmaFree campaign. Click here to learn more and add your name to the StimaFree pledge: http://ow.ly/6sFz50BMF1G

Let's start today with an important reminder: If you've been experiencing symptoms of a mental health disorder, please know that mental illness does not define your worth or your value. Each and every person is worthy of being treated with dignity and compassion. This includes you! Even during your most difficult times, don't lose sight of your innate strengths and capabilities. We see you, we celebrate you, and we will always be here for you!

Welcome to the start of Mental Illness Awareness Week! Every year, this week is a time to devote our attention to promoting more widespread understanding about mental health disorders. Our facility is proud to support this important cause. Areas of attention during the 2020 MIAW include eradicating stigma and honoring the voices of people who have mental health disorders. We'll be sharing many new updates throughout the week. If we all work together, we can make the world a more compassionate place. http://ow.ly/A0t2102oo4Z

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, we all need to get ready for flu season. Since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, we've met or exceeded all standards to ensure the safety of all who enter our facility. The health of those we treat will always be our top priority. For the duration of flu season, we will remain vigilant, and we encourage each and every one of you to do the same. Here are some valuable tips from the CDC about avoiding the flu: http://ow.ly/acrI102o2do

If you're suffering from addiction or mental illness, it can be quite a challenge to decide what steps you need to take to achieve an improved quality of life. Negative emotions such as shame, frustration, or fear can prevent you from moving forward. But please remember this: You are not alone, and the support you need may be much closer than you realize. With one call, you can discover the many options that are available to you and select the ones that best meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more. A trusted member of our team is available 24/7.

If you're uncertain about what the treatment process includes, it can be overwhelming to take the next step and decide to get professional support. Take a moment to get more information on our treatment environment and how we tailor your care so that you experience successful, sustained recovery: http://ow.ly/nRxy50BBGfw

We have dedicated ourselves to making a positive difference in the lives of those who are grappling with an addiction or mental health concern. We believe that everyone should get the support they need, and we strive to guide each person back to a place of joy and inner peace. Read about how our mission helps people achieve long-term healing: http://ow.ly/v6Nx50BxbrZ