As daylight savings time has brought its longer evenings and shorter days, many of us have experienced our moods gravitate towards reflecting this darkness. Coupled with the heaviness of recent global events, this adjustment has intensified the anxiety associated with both the changing season and these changing times. For many of us, we are left with gloomy or somber feelings. But, every dark tunnel has a light at the end, even if it’s hard to see at first. During these challenging moments, there is an overwhelming and collective call to action—a shared responsibility to look out for each other and prioritize our mental well-being.
Rebecca’s Dream urges everyone to not only extend a helping hand but to receive it when one is being offered to them. Showing and accepting support and understanding while acknowledging the fragility that heightened anxiety brings, has the power to be a balloon to someone’s anchor. In these moments of uncertainty, we need to lean into the power that unity provides; reminding each other to seek support when necessary and to navigate these challenges as a team. During this holiday season, let’s collectively strive to see the light and find solace in our shared resilience.
Managing Anxiety: Utilize these Coping Strategies to Ease the Worries
Coping strategies serve as self-soothing to ease stress or offer self-encouragement during anxious moments. Use the following coping strategies whenever you sense worry or anxiety creeping in.
Rebecca’s Dream is now accepting College Scholarship Applications
Deadline: February 28, 2024
Rebecca’s Dream is committed to serving the community by promoting awareness and compassionate understanding of depression and bipolar disorder as real diseases. Our scholarships are available to all Illinois high school seniors, providing them with a chance to address vital methods for lessening the stigma linked to mental health issues. These scholarships honor the memory of our Co-founder, Dr. Harlan Haimes.
Rosalynn Carter: Pioneering Mental Health Advocate and Legacy of Compassionate Change
Rosalynn Carter, the former First Lady who passed away at 96, devoted over 50 years to advocating for mental health, leaving an enduring impact on care access and perception.
Her commitment began during her husband’s 1966 gubernatorial campaign, where distressing stories of inadequate mental health treatment moved her.
Rosalynn spearheaded significant policy changes, establishing state and national mental health commissions and championing the Mental Health Systems Act of 1980, emphasizing community-based care.
Even after leaving the White House, she persisted in creating mental health programs and pushing for legislation ensuring fair mental health coverage. Carter’s empathetic approach targeted reducing mental health stigma, making the issue relatable to the public.
Her legacy thrives through initiatives like The Carter Center’s mental health journalism fellowships, illustrating her determination to reshape policies and perceptions, fostering a more inclusive environment for individuals facing mental health challenges.
Source: By Holly Ramer. “Rosalynn Carter’s advocacy for mental health was rooted in compassion and perseverance.” “US News,” November 21, 1023.
Featured Book
Rising Strong by Brene Brown How the ability to reset transforms the way we live, love, parent, and lead. "Walking into our stories of hurt can feel dangerous. But the process of regaining our footing in the midst of struggle is where our courage is tested and our values forged. Our stories of struggle can be big or small, but regardless of their magnitude or circumstance, the rising strong process is the same," Brene Brown.
Two Events One Cause
We would like to thank our supporters, volunteers, sponsors, and the benefit/golf committees for their hard work in making both events a success!
18th Annual Benefit
Charity Classic benefitting RD
Benefit photo credit: Mitzvah Photography Annette Leibovitz. To view more event photos visit mitzvaphotography.com and click ‘online events’ and ‘Rebecca’s Dream.’ To get a FREE copy of any image contact Kathleen Illes at Killes@rebeccasdream.org.
