Let’s
TA L K A B O U T
Mental Health by Becky Mendelbaum
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BellinghamAlive.com
T
he new year is often a time for recommitting to our health. When we think of healthy resolutions, we might imagine gym memberships, bottles of supplements, or the latest diet fad. While physical health is certainly an important aspect of our wellbeing, mental health is equally as important. This is especially true in the winter months, when roughly 30 percent of people living in northern climates suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In fact, us Washingtonians are seven times more likely to develop SAD than those living in Florida, making it essential that we pay attention to our mental health. To help you navigate the world of mental illness — from generalized anxiety to PTSD and depression — this feature explores several common mental health disorders and the effects they have on our everyday lives. In each section, we gain insight from a local mental health professional to learn more about symptoms, unknown facts, and how to find help for yourself or a loved one.