PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 25, 2024) — Feeling seasonal stress? As fall and winter arrive, shorter days, colder weather and the approaching holidays can increase feelings of anxiety and fatigue. Global events that can feel out of our control add to the pressure, making it more important than ever to prioritize mental health and find ways to stay grounded this season.

To help navigate these challenges, we are offering interviews with Maggie Earanky, LCSW, Behavioral Health Consultant with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, who will share practical tips for maintaining mental wellbeing and winter wellness.

"It's common for our mood to dip as the days get shorter and the weather turns colder, which is why it's so important to focus on our mental health during this time," says Earanky. "Between the changing seasons, holiday stress, and everything happening in the world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But the good news is, there are simple things we can do to feel more balanced and resilient – whether it's connecting with others, getting outside for some fresh air, or taking a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness. These small steps can really make a difference in how we navigate the challenges of this time of year."

Tips to stay mentally calm and healthy as we approach fall and winter:

• Limit news consumption: Set specific times to check updates to avoid becoming overwhelmed by constant information.
   
• Practice mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises to help center your thoughts and reduce anxiety.
   
• Stay connected: Reach out to friends and family to discuss your feelings. Sharing thoughts can help alleviate stress.
   
• Engage in physical activity: Exercise is proven to reduce anxiety, so find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s walking, yoga, or dancing.
   
• Focus on what you can control: Shift your focus from uncontrollable events to actions you can take, such as volunteering for a cause you believe in.

Interviews available
Maggie Earanky, LCSW, Behavioral Health Consultant with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews with media on Tuesday, Nov. 26 btwn. 1-3 p.m. Contact Karen Vitt to schedule.

Maggie Earanky is prepared to discuss:

• How seasonal changes, shorter days and colder weather affect mental health
• The impact of the holidays and global events on stress levels
• The negative health consequences of stress and anxiety
• Effective ways to manage anxiety and stress during fall and winter
• The importance of prioritizing mental health in times of heightened stress
• Tips for maintaining social connections and engaging in physical activity to reduce anxiety

ABOUT KAISER PERMANENTE
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.5 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, please visit: about.kaiserpermanente.org