News Post Category: News

The holiday season is traditionally associated with joy and celebration, yet for many, it can also usher in stress, sadness and depression. Nikki Fogle, a Licensed Counselor and Unit Therapist at Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), sheds light on the phenomenon known as the “Holiday Blues” and offers guidance on managing these feelings.

“The Holiday Blues consist of feelings of depression, sadness, loneliness or can be noticed as more anxiety or fatigue that are exacerbated during, or appear relative to, the holidays,” explains Fogle. These emotions, though temporary, are intimately linked to this period.

Fogle highlights that the holiday blues manifest through both emotional and physical symptoms. “When it comes to mood, typically there’s feeling of angst, being personally frustrated, noticing more stress or anxiety, feeling often tired or edgy and not knowing why, feeling more depressed and unmotivated or noticing an increase in sadness. Physically, we see changes in behavior patterns like an increase in headaches, more isolation, not answering the phone, over or under eating and drinking or smoking more.”

In various forms, loss is frequently at the root of these feelings. “Loss doesn’t necessarily mean that of a loved one. It can also mean loss of support or a breakup or nonconventional loss, such as: loss of function due to a medical condition, loss of expectations or loss of finances,” notes Fogle.

Discussing susceptibility, Fogle mentions, “If someone already has a mental health illness, they can be predisposed to notice an increase, in frequency or severity of symptoms. Major life changes that happen prior to the holidays, like significant losses of people or pets, relationship statuses, or even the loss of a job or big move can also predispose someone. And it’s not always a negative experience that can bring about the blues. Sometimes having a baby – which is a wonderful thing – can exacerbate the blues for some due to the process of dealing with that change.”

To help cope with the Holiday Blues, consider the following options:

Proactive Social Engagement
If you’re isolating, actively seek social connections. Engaging in community activities or volunteering can also be beneficial.

Boundary Setting
Knowing your limits is essential, and it’s okay to decline invitations or leave events early for your well-being.

Volunteering and Charity
Participating in community service can be a meaningful way to connect with others and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Moderating Social Media Usage
Social media can often distort reality. Reducing its use can help focus on genuine connections and alleviate stress.

Seeking Support
If stress, depression or anxiety persist, consider discussing your feelings with a therapist or someone you trust.

Honoring Lost Loved Ones
Find ways to remember and honor those you’ve lost during the holidays. Sharing memories can enrich your holiday experience.

Accepting Imperfection
Remember, it’s okay not to have a perfect holiday. The season is about connections, not perfection.

Additionally, Fogle emphasizes the importance of self-care and realistic expectations during the holidays. It is important to create quiet time for yourself and understand that saying no is acceptable. Be mindful of your resources, including time, energy and finances.

Navigating family dynamics can also be challenging. If family interactions are a trigger, plan to maintain your safety. Set limits on your time and substance intake and seek support if needed.

While Holiday Blues can appear similar to seasonal affective disorder, they are distinct. The Holiday Blues typically dissipate after the holiday season, while SAD is related to changes in daylight and may persist longer.

At PPI, Fogle, with her extensive experience spanning over two decades, continues to provide valuable insights and support as part of the multidisciplinary treatment team.

For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, immediate help is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. For support in managing stress and anxiety, or to make an appointment, contact PPI at 717-782-6493.

September marks National Recovery Month, a nationwide initiative dedicated to promoting and supporting evidence-based treatment and recovery practices. It celebrates the resilience and strength of the recovery community and recognizes the commitment of service providers and community members who make recovery possible.

Living in central Pennsylvania, many of us know someone who may be facing a substance use disorder. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in 14 Americans struggles with this issue, often stemming from stress, trauma, mental health challenges or misuse of prescribed opioids. Signs of addiction include declining work or school performance, physical neglect, behavioral changes and financial issues. It’s important to recognize these signs and seek help.

“Asking for help is a crucial step towards recovery. Finding the right resources can make a significant difference in your journey to sobriety,” says Dr. Sarah S. Kawasaki, Addiction Services Director at the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health enterprise. “Utilize the available support systems, and don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Fortunately, there are local resources available to assist with screening, treatment and recovery:

Local Government Support

Residents of Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry and York counties have access to a continuum of quality substance abuse prevention, intervention and treatment services. While each county is different, community drug and alcohol services are generally offered at no cost. More details are available on the counties’ websites:

• Adams
• Cumberland
• Dauphin
• Perry
• York

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline

The SAMHSA National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. It provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups and community-based organizations. The helpline is available in English and Spanish and supports those without health insurance.

The helpline is available at no cost by dialing 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

You can learn more about SAMHSA by visiting SAMHSA.gov.

Sober Apps

Apps can significantly aid the recovery process by providing tools for tracking sobriety, connecting with support networks, accessing counseling and receiving motivational reminders. These features help individuals maintain their commitment to recovery, monitor their progress and find immediate support when facing challenges.

Below are five apps highlighted by the US Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) resource for parents, educators and caregivers, “Get Smart About Drugs.”

• HereNow Connect
• IAmSoberApp
• Sober App
• Nomo – Sobriety Clocks
• Sober Time

Peer Support Groups

Peer support groups are crucial in recovery from substance use disorders for several reasons. They provide emotional support and understanding from those with similar experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and stigma. These groups offer practical advice and coping strategies, fostering a sense of community and accountability. Peer support enhances motivation and commitment to recovery by sharing successes and challenges. Additionally, these groups often provide resources and information about treatment options and other supportive services.

Numerous support groups are available, but USA.gov recommends the following:

• Alcoholics Anonymous is a global fellowship of individuals who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other to solve their common problems and help others recover from alcoholism.
• Al-Anon is a support group for friends and families of problem drinkers, offering a space to share experiences, find understanding and develop effective ways to cope with the challenges associated with a loved one’s alcoholism.
• Alateen is a support group for teenagers (ages 13 to 18) affected by someone else’s alcoholism, providing a space to share experiences, strength and hope to cope with their challenges.
• Narcotics Anonymous is a worldwide group that offers support to individuals recovering from drug addiction through shared experiences and a twelve-step program.
• NAR-Anon is a support group for family members and friends of individuals struggling with addiction, providing a community for sharing experiences and finding strength.
• SMART Recovery is a science-based program that supports individuals in overcoming addictive behaviors by promoting self-empowerment and self-reliance through its four-point program, which includes building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts and behaviors and living a balanced life.

Advancement In Recovery (AIR) Program

The AIR Program by PPI offers comprehensive Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder. The program includes services such as methadone maintenance, daily Suboxone or Subutex, Vivitrol and Naltrexone treatments, individual and group counseling, intensive outpatient programming, family therapy and various support group meetings. The AIR team consists of experienced medical doctors and clinicians who support patients throughout all phases of treatment.

Learn more by calling the PPI Admissions Department at 717-782-6420 or by visiting the AIR website.

NEXT Distro

The NEXT Distro program in Pennsylvania offers free naloxone (Narcan) by mail to individuals at risk of opioid overdoses. This life-saving medication can reverse overdoses, helping to prevent fatalities. The program also provides educational resources on overdose response and supports harm reduction strategies. No prescription is needed to access naloxone through this initiative.

Learn more by visiting NextDistro.org.

Drug Take-Back Locations

The Prescription Drug Take-Back Program by Pennsylvania’s Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) focuses on preventing the misuse of prescription drugs by offering safe disposal options for unused medications. It encourages locking up medications, not sharing them and using designated drug take-back boxes or disposal pouches. The DEA designates acceptable items, while items like hydrogen peroxide and illicit drugs are not accepted.

The DEA allows for the disposal of the following medications:

• Over-the-counter medications
• Prescription medications
• Prescription patches
• Prescription ointments
• Vitamins
• Pet medicines

You can find the closest location by visiting the DDAP website.

Asking for Help

“Remember, it’s important to ask for help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use. Utilizing the local resources listed can be a crucial step towards recovery,” says Dr. Kawasaki. “Additionally, you can contact PPI for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling their admissions department at 1-866-746-2496. Seeking assistance is a courageous and necessary step.”

For more information on finding help, visit Pennsylvania’s DDAP or PPI websites.

In our society, addiction is often misunderstood and vilified, leading to profound stigmatization of those with substance use disorders. This stigma can manifest as negative attitudes, discrimination, and biases that create significant barriers to recovery. Given the devastating impact of drug overdoses on American lives—with over 100,000 fatalities in the United States during 2023*—it is crucial that we address this issue head-on.

The History of Stigma

Stigma, derived from Latin and Greek, originally referred to a mark signifying disgrace. In today’s context, it alludes to labeling, discrimination and stereotyping. One of the prevalent misconceptions is that addiction is a personal choice and reflects a moral failing. Such beliefs are deep-rooted and persistent, not only in the general public but also among professionals, including those in the health care industry.

There is an abundance of evidence demonstrating that stigma adversely affects the health and well-being of those with substance use disorders. It creates a barrier to accessing quality care in clinical settings. The urgency to combat this stigma cannot be stressed enough.

“At PPI, we believe that every individual deserves a chance at a brighter tomorrow. Our commitment isn’t just to treat symptoms but to empower each patient with knowledge, understanding and the tools to rebuild their lives,” says Joel Thomas, a counselor 1 at PPI.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) further underscores that the stigma against those with substance use disorders hampers effective treatment. Many aren’t aware that substance use disorders are caused by changes in the brain that render drug use a compulsion, often leading to behaviors that further alienate and stereotype individuals with addiction.

“Mental health care isn’t a luxury but a lifeline for those with substance use disorders. It’s the bridge that connects despair to hope, isolation to community and illness to healing,” emphasizes Dr. Sarah Sharfstein Kawasaki, MD, assistant professor of Psychiatry and director of Addiction Services at PPI.

The onus is on health care providers and society at large to understand and treat substance use disorders for what they truly are: chronic yet treatable medical conditions. Individuals grappling with these disorders deserve empathy, compassion and respect.

The Power of Language

One way to combat this damaging stigma is through our words. The National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes the importance of “person-first” language. Rather than label someone as a “substance abuser”, we should say “person with a substance use disorder,” recognizing their humanity first. Such shifts in language, while seemingly small, can have profound effects on how individuals with substance use disorders are perceived and treated.

Societal Inequities and Stigma

Systemic issues, such as racism, can compound the challenges faced by those with substance use disorders. Discrimination can increase susceptibility to these issues and impede access to vital treatments. These inequalities further underline the urgency of fostering understanding and compassion in our approach to addiction.

A Call to Action

Each one of us has a role to play in reducing stigma. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, researcher, family member or someone directly affected by substance use, it’s imperative to:

• Use appropriate, non-stigmatizing language.
• Educate yourself and others about the nature and causes of addiction.
• Advocate for accessible, evidence-based treatments.
• Stand against systemic discrimination that intensifies stigma.

PPI’s Commitment: The AIR Program

Understanding the complex nature of addiction and the importance of compassionate, expert care, PPI introduced the Advancement in Recovery (AIR) Program. This comprehensive Medication Assisted Treatment Program is tailor-made for individuals grappling with Opioid Use Disorder.

The AIR team is a group of dedicated medical doctors and clinicians with profound expertise in handling opioid use disorders and transitioning patients to Buprenorphine, Methadone and Vivitrol. These experts stand by patients through every phase of treatment, providing not just medical intervention, but also the emotional and psychological support essential for recovery.

Stigma can be a formidable adversary in the battle against addiction. However, with informed perspectives, compassionate approaches, and evidence-based treatments like the AIR program, we can create a society where individuals with SUDs receive the support and understanding they so rightly deserve.

*U.S. Overdose Deaths Decrease in 2023, First Time Since 2018 (cdc.gov)

September is National Recovery Month. Each September, we aim to educate our community about substance use disorders and promote our services that help those with substance use disorders live healthy and rewarding lives.

The hard work that goes into a successful treatment plan often goes unnoticed, and National Recovery Month celebrates the achievements made by everyone in recovery by reinforcing the positive actions they have taken to regain their health. We are proud of our staff members who help to facilitate the recovery process, but we are the proudest of our patients who have put in the work and have been successful in their recovery.

Opioid use disorder is everywhere, and central Pennsylvania is no exception. Statewide, Pennsylvania has some of the highest overdose rates in our nation. In 2023, the Dauphin County Coroner ruled that 125 people died by drug overdose in Dauphin County alone.

The epidemic is overwhelming, but it is important to remember that people do recover. It is possible to overcome addiction. You are not alone. It’s just a matter of reaching out for help and getting connected with effective, evidence-based and comprehensive treatment.

PPI provides help with their innovative Advancement In Recovery (AIR) Program. Through a combination of medication-assisted treatment and intensive counseling, people with opioid use disorder are getting a second chance to live a fulfilling life.

If you would like to speak to someone about taking the first step to recovery, or to make an appointment, please call 717-782-6493 for more information.

Sources:
2023-Drug-Death-Report.pdf (dauphincounty.gov)

There is no one answer to the behavioral health care crisis being felt across the state and the nation.

Dr. Elisabeth Kunkel, chief medical officer for Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), said it will take creativity to ensure all patients get what they need quickly so issues don’t escalate to the crisis point.

Read more on CPBJ.com.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this blog post will explore practical self-care tips and practices that allow individuals to pause, recharge and regain balance in a busy world. In our fast-paced lives, where demands and responsibilities seem to multiply by the minute, it’s easy to overlook the importance of self-care. Taking a break and prioritizing our mental health is crucial for overall well-being.

Why Self-Care Matters

Before we delve into specific practices, let’s understand why self-care matters. When we neglect our own needs, stress accumulates, affecting our physical health, emotional resilience and cognitive functioning. Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s an investment in our ability to show up fully for ourselves and others.

Practical Self-Care Strategies

• Get Regular Exercise. Walking for 30 minutes every day can make you feel happier and healthier. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
• Eat Healthy, Regular Meals and Stay Hydrated. Maintaining a well-balanced diet and staying hydrated can enhance your energy levels and concentration throughout the day. Additionally, it’s advisable to limit your intake of caffeinated beverages.
• Make Sleep a Priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Prioritizing sleep is crucial for overall well-being. Adequate rest enhances physical health, mental clarity and emotional resilience.
• Try a Relaxing Activity. Consider exploring relaxation or wellness programs, including apps that offer meditation, muscle relaxation or breathing exercises. Make it a habit to allocate regular time for these activities, along with other healthy practices you enjoy, such as journaling or yoga.
• Set Goals and Priorities. Take small steps and prioritize tasks based on urgency. It is important to be able to recognize when to decline new responsibilities if you’re feeling overwhelmed. At day’s end, focus on your achievements rather than dwelling on what remains undone.
• Practice Gratitude. Every day, take a moment to reflect on specific things you’re grateful for. Whether you jot them down or replay them in your mind, this practice cultivates a positive mindset.
• Stay Connected. Reach out to your friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.
• Focus on Positivity. Recognize and confront negative or unhelpful thoughts. By actively challenging them, you can foster a more positive mindset and improve your overall well-being.
• Steer Away from Harmful Substances. Avoid relying on harmful substances as a coping mechanism for your emotions. Seeking healthier ways to manage feelings is essential for your well-being.
• Focus on the World Around You. Take two minutes to center yourself in the present moment and break free from the constant swirl of thoughts. Reconnect with your surroundings and focus on where you are right now. Simply take three slow deep breaths, feel your feet grounded on the floor and ask yourself:
• What are five things I can see?
• What are four things I can hear?
• What can I smell?
• What does it feel like to touch something in reach? How does it feel underneath my fingers?
• Be Nice to Yourself. When you’re feeling down, it’s common to be self-critical. Even if self-praise feels challenging, try practicing self-compassion. If being kind to yourself is too difficult at that moment, perform a kind act for someone else. Then, acknowledge and compliment yourself for the kind act.

 
In our busy lives, self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline. By incorporating these practical strategies, you can prioritize your mental health, recharge and thrive even in the busiest of worlds.

For further information on Mental Health Awareness Month, visit: www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month/

Seeking Compassionate Mental Health Care?

Contact PPI at 866-746-2496 or 717-782-6493 (available 24/7) or visit our website at ppimhs.org/programs to learn more about our comprehensive services and programs.

During May, Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health enterprise owned by Penn State Health, is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month by raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting understanding about mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical strategies for coping during crisis moments and highlight the critical role of support networks and crisis hotlines.

Practical Coping Strategies

1. Prioritize Self-Care: Create a self-care routine that includes adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, physical activity and relaxation techniques. Regular exercise, mindfulness and deep breathing can help reduce stress.
2. Reach Out to Support Networks:
   • Friends and Family: Share your feelings with trusted friends and family members. They can provide emotional support and encouragement.
   • Support Groups: Consider joining local or online support groups. Connecting with others who understand your experiences can be comforting.
   • Therapists and Counselors: Seek professional help. Therapists can guide you through crisis moments and provide coping strategies.
3. Create a Safety Plan:
   • Identify triggers and warning signs.
   • List emergency contacts.
   • Develop coping strategies.
   • Establish a safe space.
4. Stay Informed:
   • Educate yourself about mental health conditions.
   • Learn about available local and online resources and services.
   • Understand the signs of crisis.
5. Hotlines and Crisis Services:
   • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (Dial 988): Available 24/7 for confidential support for individuals in crisis.
   • Crisis Text Line (Text “HOME” to 741741): Text-based crisis support for those who prefer texting over phone calls.
   • SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline (800-985-5990): For emotional distress related to disasters or traumatic events.
   • PPI Admissions Department (866-746-2496 or 717-782-6493): Available 24/7
   • Local Emergency Services (Dial 911): Available 24/7

Reaching Out Matters

Remember that reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone, and there are people who care about your well-being. Whether it’s a crisis hotline or a compassionate friend, seeking help is a courageous step toward healing.

For further information on Mental Health Awareness Month, visit: nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month

Seeking Compassionate Mental Health Care?

Contact PPI at 866-746-2496 or 717-782-6493 (available 24/7) or visit our website at ppimhs.org/programs to learn more about our comprehensive services and programs.