The Crane December 2021 Newsletter

Page 1

December 2021


Authored By Rikia Ancar, LMFT - Clinical Director


According to the Center for Disease Control, over 25% of Americans report feeling more depressed during the holiday season. The top reasons for depression during the holidays are due to finances, strained familial relationships, grief, and loneliness. Depression is a direct contributing factor to increased alcohol and drug consumption during the holiday season. Since drinking heavily and for extended periods affects one’s brain, it decreases serotonin. This brain chemical regulates memory, sleep, hunger, and mood. Therefore, drinking to reduce depression is doing the complete opposite. It causes a deeper and quicker spiral to unhappiness and sadness. Getting caught in this cycle of drinking to escape depression is ultimately just perpetuating depression and can be very challenging to break. However, there is help available for those who are ready to learn how holiday depression and anxiety relate to recovery. All of our treatment programs, including our co-occurring disorder treatment program, are designed to keep people on the road to recovery. If you or a loved one is ready to learn to heal from

the underlying causes of depression and gain healthy coping skills, contact Clayton Center’s Centralized Scheduling department at 1.844.438.2778 HOW HOLIDAY DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY RELATE TO RECOVERY Over 80% of Americans report feeling moderate to overwhelming anxiety during the holiday season. Just like depression, the top reasons for these anxieties are due to finances, strained relationships with family, grief over friends or family, and loneliness. Not surprisingly, anxiety frequently accompanies depression. Staying sober in the face of anxiety and depression can be a difficult task. But, those who learn how holiday depression and anxiety relate to recovery have a higher chance of maintaining their sobriety throughout the holidays and into the new year.

TIPS TO MAINTAIN SOBRIETY DURING HOLIDAYS There are many tips that people use to maintain sobriety during the holidays. Some of these tips include: ▪ Maintaining a workout routine ▪ Eating healthy ▪ Prioritizing a sleep schedule ▪ Spending quality time with family and friends ▪ Meditating ▪ Utilizing breathing exercises ▪ Skipping family or work gatherings that may risk sobriety ▪ Attending NA or AA meetings ▪ Taking time off of work ▪ Taking a trip The holidays can be stressful, anxietyinducing, complicated, and especially dangerous for those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Engaging in healthy habits during the holiday season can be a significant component of maintaining sobriety during this time. Increasing awareness around triggers as a means of planning strategies to prevent anxiety and depression is a practice that supports long-term recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. Paula Crane Center PAGE 2


“The

STEP SIX

important thing is this: to be able at any moment to sacrifice what we are for what we could become.” – Charles Dubois Step Six of AA’s Alcoholics Anonymous Twelve Step program of recovery is all about the removal of what doesn’t work in our lives anymore. Since you have completed Step Four and Five you surely have plenty of things that were revealed to you about what you need to get rid of! So now it’s time to allow a Higher Power to cut out these attitudes, beliefs and behaviors at the source. You get to partner up with your Higher Power and make a firm decision to let go of the character defects and flaws that have been ruling your life and seemed to have you hell bent on self destruction. The sixth step can bring about significant and very noticeable change when it comes to the thought patterns and behavior that have been with us for a long time. It doesn’t happen overnight obviously, and there is nothing like perfection when working the twelve steps of AA. It’s about making a commitment and being content with patient improvement.

We are entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character

Written by Jason Wahler PAGE 3 Paula Crane Center


BREAKING DOWN STEP SIX When breaking down Step Six I like to focus more on the word “ready” than entirely; nobody is ever entirely ready, especially for the unknown. However the word “ready” is a reminder that we are prepared, open and available. Now we can aim at the very best of all we know or can learn. In previous steps we discovered how we harmed ourselves and other people by acting out on our character defects. We learned about patterns in behavior and that we are likely to act the same way with the same defects over and over. All of this knowledge helped us to become ready to have these defects of character removed. So now, at Step Six, we’ve reached a spiritual state of mind where we are aware of our character defects, sick and tired of them and pretty confident that a higher power of our own understanding will remove what should go. CHARACTER DEFECTS: SHORTCOMINGS YOU’RE READY TO LET GO OF While working on Step Six we learn about the humility it takes to see ourselves more clearly. We see that character defects and instincts work hand-in-hand. We were given instincts to help us stay alive. However, when our abundant instincts or desires far exceed their intended purpose, motivate us to act blindly, or make us willfully demand that we be supplied with more satisfactions than are possible or due, they then become character defects. It’s important when looking at your character defects in Step Six to remember the basic nature of all human beings (which is the same for all of us). We all have needs and we try to get the met; how we go about getting them is where defects come into play. To be clear, “defects of character” does not mean you

are defective, or that you are a bad character. In fact, instead of seeing your faults and failings as defects, you should reframe it as “shortcomings” that can be address and worked on. When we get to those issues deep down that caused the addictions and behaviors then real long-lasting change occurs. We can make a real effort to heal the underlying core mental and emotional issues that have caused limiting and/or destructive behavior. When you’re ready to let go, some of the most popularly destructive character defects or shortcomings, usually include: fear, pride, dishonesty, gluttony, greed, lust, jealousy, grandiosity, willfulness and anger. If we are completely honest with ourselves we have to admit that sometimes we exult in some of our defectsthey feel good and we really kinda love some of them! But we have seen time and time again that changing addictive behavior no matter how difficult it seems is possible. The overwhelming task is much easier when broken down into tiny incremental steps. STEP SIX OF THE TWELVE STEPS: ABANDON LIMITATIONS “When a person is capable of enough wiliness and honesty to try repeatedly Step Six on all his faults-without any reservations whatever- has indeed come a long way spiritually…” (12 &12) While working on Step Six try not to beat yourself up if you can’t conquer every single one of your defects immediately (or even over a longer period of time). You’re a work in progress and you should be happy about your success so far. Celebrate each little victory; keep an open mind and a positive attitude through your journey. Remember: Spirit meets us at our point of action, so remember, don’t try- DO! Paula Crane Center PAGE 4


PUT THE ANVIL DOWN: STEP SIX QUESTIONS & ACTIONS In Step Six of AA we get to put the anvil down. For many of us recovering addicts carrying around some pretty heavy shortcomings not only slows us down in the progress of our recovery; it also puts us at risk for relapse. We’ve had these defects we’re about to let go of for a long time so there’s probably a measure of fear about changing-because change means the unknown and the unknown is part of why we drank or used. It’s important to keep a sense of hope and trust in the program and the process of recovery that has worked on even the most deeply rooted character defects. Here are some questions to help guide you through Step Six: ▪ What are your fears about doing a sixth step? ▪

What does it mean that a “higher power” can remove them?

What is your responsibility?

Do you believe you can change? Have you changed so far?

Are some of your character defects enjoyable because they give you pleasure? ▪

Are there any defects that you think cannot be removed? Are you willing to have all of them removed- if not why?

How does surrender help with Step 6?

What actions can you take to show that you are entirely ready?

Here’s are two great Step Six activities that you can do alone or with your sponsor: Make a list (which you’re already so good at!) of each character defect of yours, including a very brief definition of it. Then list the ways that you act out behaviorally on the defect and the effect it has on yourself and others when you do. Lastly, write about what your life would be like without the behavior and what principle you may be able to apply instead. Create Affirmations: Take each major character defect and write three to five positive statements about living differently. Repeat these affirmations aloud in the morning and evening (word them in the present tense, as if you’ve already conquered the defect.) For example if “lying” is the defect you could write: I am now telling the truth in all matters. PAGE 5 Paula Crane Center

We made it through another day! Sometimes we may feel relief at this statement, other times disappointment, still other times peace. Tonight, we can be grateful for this day. This does not mean just giving thanks or recognition for getting something we wanted. Being grateful means recognizing all the events and the people who came our way. It means seeing through disappointments or pain to gain understanding of its meaning in our lives. It means trusting everything that happened was given by our Higher Power. We can trust there was a reason for it all. Giving thanks begins now. We can replay today’s events like a tape, watching, listening, and feeling and at the end of the tape, we can thank our Higher Power for our day, for the people in it, and for the knowledge and experience we gained.

Thank you, Higher Power, for this day. I trust everything in my life today was a gift from you. From Night Light; A Book of Nighttime Meditations by Amy E. Dean


by Susan Linney

For many people in early sobriety, the first few days or weeks can feel anything but fun. It’s hard learning how to change old, familiar behaviors and navigate life without alcohol or drugs. While it may not come naturally at first, you will begin to have fun in recovery. As long as you don’t give up. Sometimes, all it takes is a little change in perspective to find happiness and joy in unexpected places. RECONSIDERING YOUR DEFINITION OF “FUN” Many people come into recovery with a skewed idea of what “fun” means to them because addiction affects brain chemistry. It effectively trains your brain to associate feelings of contentment and happiness with your substance of choice. This is why people with substance use disorders continue to drink or use drugs despite knowing there may be

negative consequences. It’s also why, once sober, you may have a tendency to romanticize your past use and associate it with feelings of fun and relaxation. This can also happen when compared to the hard, emotionally-taxing work of recovery. One of the ways to combat this type of negative, all-or-nothing thinking is to remind yourself of the things you enjoyed doing before addiction took over your life. What were the activities that used to bring you joy? Revisiting some of these hobbies may reignite your enthusiasm for them—and help retrain your brain’s neural reward circuits to create new, healthier ways of having and thinking about fun. STEPPING OUTSIDE OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE It’s also important to keep an open mind and be willing to try new things. You may be surprised to learn that activities that didn’t inter-

est you while you were active in your addiction are actually quite enjoyable to you now. Before I got sober, for example, I hated yoga. No matter how many times my friends would drag me to classes, I found it extremely hard to focus. I’d often find myself counting the minutes until the class was over. But once I came into recovery (and had to participate in yoga classes while in rehab), I started to enjoy the practice. I found it much easier to concentrate and follow the movements, and now it’s one of my all-time favorite activities. I’m so grateful I decided to give yoga another try, despite the fact that I was positive I wouldn’t enjoy it. So whenever possible, try to saying “yes” to new activities and opportunities. Even if the activities don’t sound like something you think you’ll like, you may be surprised. Keep yourself busy, establish a strong support network, and surround yourself with other sober people—studies show that fun is enhanced when it’s experienced with others. Remind yourself that your brain needs time to recalibrate and rediscover what brings you joy.

Christmas to me is about giving to others. What I have found out over the years, is that I always cross paths with someone in need. So as I gather things to give, I think of all the years that I couldn’t give. I am so grateful to share things and wrap gifts in pretty paper and bags and deliver things to neighbors, friends and family. As we enter the Holiday Season, let’s all keep our hearts, eye’s and ears open to one’s in need. Be safe and be kind to everyone you come in contact with. Love is the REASON FOR THE SEASON. Robin Quintero-Juez Paula Crane Center PAGE 6


eparation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is part of a cluster of diagnoses called the anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are a group of psychiatric conditions that include: ▪ Generalized anxiety From Mindyra Behavioral Health disorder ▪ Social anxiety disorder ▪ Panic disorder ▪ Agoraphobia ▪ Specific phobia These disorders are characterized primarily by the experience of excessive fear and anxiety. People with generalized anxiety disorder spend a lot of time worrying about a lot of different things. People with social anxiety disorder feel very anxious around other people because they are afraid of embarrassing themselves or being disliked. People with panic disorder have sudden rushes of intense fear or discomfort called panic attacks. They often worry about having another panic attack and might avoid certain situations that might trigger a panic

SEPARATION ANXIETY DISORDER IN ADULTS

attack. People with agoraphobia are afraid of going into certain situations because they are afraid it might be difficult to escape or because they might experience panic-like or other embarrassing symptoms. Commonly avoided situations are using public transportation, being in open spaces like parking lots, being in enclosed places like movie theaters, or being in a crowd. People with a specific phobia are afraid of a certain object or situation, such as flying, heights, animals, or seeing blood. People with separation anxiety disorder are afraid of being away from a certain person, usually because they are afraid that something bad might happen to them or the other person if they are separated. The anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear and anxiety, along with behavioral disturbances, like avoiding certain places, people, or situations. The anxiety disorders differ from each other in the target or focus of the fear. In some anxiety disorders, like specific phobia, the person is only excessively fearful of a very specific object or situation. In other anxiety disorders, like GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder), the person may feel anxious a great deal of the time or about a lot of different things.

SAD is a psychiatric disorder that affects approximately 6% of adults at some point in their lives and 1 - 2% of adults in a given year. Onset often occurs in childhood and persists into adulthood, although adult onset can occur. SAD is characterized by significant fear and anxiety about being separated from significant attachment figures, usually a spouse or child. UNDERSTANDING SEPARATION ANXIETY DISORDER SAD severity can range from relatively mild to severely impairing. In severe cases, SAD can lead to difficulty attending or performing well at work, and may inhibit the individual's ability to travel independently. SAD may cause conflict and frustration for attachment figures, who may feel pressured to comply with the individual's demands

for constant closeness. Many individuals with SAD also have other psychiatric conditions, most commonly anxiety disorders, mood disorders including bipolar disorder and depression, and complicated grief. SAD sometimes emerges after a major life stressor, particularly a loss (for example, loss of a loved one or following a move). SAD is characterized by some respiratory abnormalities and increased

rates of atopic disorders (allergies; asthma); however, any causal relationship is as yet unknown. The hormone oxytocin, which is involved in attachment and bonding, may also play a role in SAD, although the specific contribution is as yet unknown. SAD runs in families and is thought to be heritable; however, a genetic predisposition to SAD does not mean that an individual will develop SAD.


characterized primarily by the experience of excessive fear and anxiety


s much as the end of the year brings people together with Halloween parties in October, Thanksgiving dinner in November, and a plethora of holidays in December such as Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, it can also MAINTAINING be an overwhelming time. This is especially true for SOBRIETY THROUGH those battling a substance use disorder (SUD) or an THE HOLIDAYS alcohol use disorder (AUD). Or perhaps an individual in recovery who may get triggered by the festivities. Maintaining sobriety through the holidays may be challenging, but it is possible with effort, focus, and support. Clayton Center have program offerings in alcohol and substance misuse, as well as co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression. Our inpatient and outpatient care are provided within a supportive and safe environment. If you’re battling a SUD or an AUD, know that help is here for you.

9 TIPS:

HOLIDAY PRESSURES AND SUBSTANCE MISUSE The holidays can bring out both the best and worst out of many of us. This applies to anyone, whether you’re struggling with an AUD, SUD, or no disorder at all. It’s important not to criticize yourself for making mistakes and falling short of perfection. If you’re currently sober and intend on remaining that way throughout this holiday season, you may want to make yourself aware of two types of pressure: direct social pressure and indirect social pressure. PAGE 9 Paula Crane Center

Direct social pressure is a scenario that involves an individual offering you an opportunity to drink or simply when an individual directly offers you a drink. Indirect social pressure is a scenario that involves you being around others consuming alcohol, causing you to feel tempted to drink (although no one has offered you a drink). To minimize the risk or to avoid relapse altogether, preparation is key.


SOBRIETY TIPS YOU SHOULD KNOW One of the strengths of the staff at The Crane is that they are empathetic to the needs of an individual struggling with drug and/or alcohol misuse. Some of our staff members are successfully in long-term recovery themselves, so they speak to Individuals from experience, empathy, and knowledge as trained addiction recovery empowerment specialists.

9 HOLIDAY SOBRIETY TIPS: 1.Set boundaries with friends and family. Know what you’re willing to be comfortable with and share this with others in order for loved ones to support your sobriety. 2.Practice your plan for refusing drugs and/or alcohol. A prepared mind can respond to situations in healthy and productive ways. 3.Have scripted responses for anticipated scenarios. 4.Plan ahead. Don’t get caught off guard with innocent family members or friends offering you a drink, which may be a temptation for you. Plan your response. 5.Increase self-care. 6.Engage with your recovery community. 7.Remain committed to the routines/rituals that ground you. 8.Create a list of why maintaining your sobriety is important to you. 9.Avoid isolation. Be consistent with accountability to your sponsor and others who you’ve made this commitment with. Attend meetings and pull on the support of others in recovery.

To minimize the risk or to avoid relapse altogether, preparation is key. The holidays may feel like the greatest universal paradox. While they’re about quality time with friends and family, other variables like money, gift lists, guest lists, and for some, alcohol and drugs, drown out that quality to the point where good times are watered down to nothing. Sometimes we lose sight of what’s truly important in the first place, but we don’t have to. There are resources available to help you to achieve long-term sobriety and to live a productive life beyond the holidays, one step at a time. If you’re struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, The Crane is here to help. Paula Crane Center PAGE 10


Hanukkah: Introspection and Focus

Holidays are often perceived as the season of giving however it should be whatever you make it. Holidays should be about continuing inner peace, having those around you that gives you more peace, lots of laughs, great food, and gifts should be the last thing on the agenda. Make sure you are around people and things that don’t make you feel bad about not having extra to give; their gift is a healthy YOU. Stay focused on you getting better daily which is the ultimate gift to your family and friends. Keep doing the work, following the 12 steps, and healing yourself. Keep your mental health as positive as positive especially during the upcoming holidays. Don’t let the holidays overwhelm you. This holiday season is about you just keep getting better. Sheneta Hamilton, GED teacher/Job Coach In Hannukkah tradition, we look at each candle for at least 30 minutes upon lighting them each of the eight nights. The light is just to look upon and is not used for anything else. We can use this introspection for sobriety in several ways. One such way is living our lives in focus. Being aware of what is important. And rectifying the darkness. Each night we light the Hanukiah or menorah. We start with the first light until all eight are lit on the eighth night. This is a time we can think about going slow with our healing. It is a way to consider that one day at a time is best for inner light and healing. In order for the public to see the menorah, it must be lit in a window or doorway. In fact, in Jerusalem, you will find menorahs outside people’s homes. And it is a beautiful sight to see thousands of lights sparkling in the city. There are even worldwide public menorah lightings. This introspect is perfect to reflect on how important it is to have the support of more than just yourself. Being part of a community helps with recovery far better than going it alone. The menorah is not right for the holiday unless all oil cups or candles are on the same level. This would deem it unsuitable if they are not. This is a wonderful insight into how we are all equal. We should not look down on people and staying humble is the best way to heal.

PAGE 11 Paula Crane Center


4 NUTRITION TIPS FOR EARLY RECOVERY

If you’re newly sober, nutrition may be the last thing on your mind. And while you certainly shouldn’t deny yourself a yummy cookie or a plate of fries every now and then (it’s certainly better than a drink or a drug!), being mindful about what you eat can help make the recovery process easier. In addition to improving your physical health, eating foods rich in certain nutrients can help reduce stress levels, curb cravings, and relieve other uncomfortable symptoms common in early sobriety. Below are 4 nutrition tips for early recovery.

GABA-Boosting Snacks

Antioxidants-Rich Fruits

GABA is a neurotransmitter produced in the brain that promotes calm and relaxation. People in early recovery often have lower-thannormal levels of GABA, which can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and other mental health stressors. There are a variety of foods that help boost the production of GABA in the body, including whole grains, almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds; cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower; and fish like halibut and shrimp.

Antioxidants help rebuild your immune system and can be especially beneficial in the early days of sobriety when your body is still ridding itself of harmful toxins. Blueberries are antioxidant-packed and make an excellent snack when you’re craving something sweet. Other antioxidant-rich fruits include pomegranates, kiwis, cherries, purple plums, grapes, and acai and goji berries.

Leafy Greens With L-Glutamine Lean Meats With Tyrosine Tyrosine is an amino acid present in lean beef, poultry, fish, lamb, and pork. It helps increase your brain’s production of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which helps promote feelings of happiness and well-being. Low levels of dopamine are common in early recovery and associated with low energy, depressed mood, and even alcohol and drug cravings.

Dark, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, parsley, and Brussels sprouts are rich in the amino acid l-glutamine, which helps support the immune system and maintain the health of your digestive tract. Studies also suggest that lglutamine may help curb cravings in people with substance use disorder, particularly following detox. Protein-rich foods such as beef, chicken, fish, eggs, and dairy products are also good sources of l-glutamine. Beans, beets, carrots, celery, and papaya are also good options. Paula Crane Center PAGE 12


How to Have a Sober New Year’s Rikia Ancar, LMFT

The winter holidays are a difficult time to stay sober, especially New Year’s Eve. Drinking on this day is one of the most popular ways to bring in the coming year. However, if you or a loved one has ever had a problem with alcoholism, a sober New Year’s is necessary to avoid falling into your former addiction. There are plenty of ways to have fun and stay away from alcohol on New Year’s Eve. An alcohol rehab program is often the best way for people to remain on the road to recovery throughout the holiday season and beyond. At Fort Behavioral Health, our team is ready to teach people how to have a sober New Year’s and celebrate the holidays without alcohol. Enjoy a sober holiday season with support from our prevention activities this month and especially through our peer support groups held Monday through Friday at 2 pm. CONSIDER GETTING SUPPORT FOR AN ALCOHOL ADDICTION BEFORE THE HOLIDAY SEASON If you have problems with alcohol use disorder, you will need some help to attain sobriety. While rehab programs can take months to complete, you can at least get started and begin to work on your recovery during the holidays. You may contact our centralized scheduling program to see how to get started in our treatment program simply by calling 1.844.438.2778 When you enter an alcohol addiction treatment program, you get professional help and a team to support you through the recovery process. You will not be alone, even if you find that having a sober holiday feels uncomfortable. With a support team at your back, you can become free from addiction to substances that keep you from enjoying sober celebrations. PAGE 13 Paula Crane Center

STICK TO SODA OR JUICE FOR A SOBER NEW YEAR’S

If you are going to a party, ask if the host will have non-alcoholic drinks. If you are not sure, offer to bring your own to share with others. You will likely not be the only person to avoid drinking. In fact, there should be a few people who avoid alcohol to ensure that everyone has safe ways to get home. Pick your favorite drink for the night that does not contain alcohol and stick with it. If you need the bubbles of champagne, have sparkling water or ginger ale. Should you crave a sweet drink, try a cranberry juice drink or spiced apple juice for a winter holiday-inspired beverage. There are many delicious options for non-alcoholic drinks.


STAY PHYSICALLY AWAY FROM THE DRINKS

DESIGNATE YOURSELF THE SAFE RIDE

LEARN ABOUT THE DANGERS OF DRINKING AND DRIVING

When you go to a party, keep yourself physically as far from the alcohol as possible. Distancing yourself from alcoholic drinks makes it harder for you to pick up a drink without thinking. Also, only get drinks for yourself and don’t allow anyone else to bring you something. That way, someone does not accidentally bring you an alcoholic beverage.

If you drive, offer your services as a designated driver to help people get home safely. As the official designated driver, others at the party will help you to stay sober because they don’t want to have to give up their safe rides home. If it helps, wear a badge or other article to identify yourself as the designated driver. Bartenders and drink pourers will know to only offer you nonalcoholic beverages when you have on a physical piece of clothing that lets them know you will celebrate a sober New Year’s.

Understanding how dangerous the combination of drinking and driving is can make it easier for you to avoid alcohol on New Year’s. Drinking can lead to impaired driving. Even if you feel sober, your reactions may not be adequate to prevent a wreck. Therefore, the best option is to stay completely sober at New Year’s to ensure that you will have the physical and mental sharpness to safely drive yourself and others home.


Kwanzaa and Eating Disorder Recovery Maintaining Through the Traditions

Courtney Howard, BA, writer for Eating Disorder Hope

PAGE 15 Paula Crane Center

Kwanzaa is a time of celebration, with an emphasis on community. However, it can be challenging to maintain recovery during the holiday season, which is full of potential triggers and temptations. Like many other holidays that take place during this time of year, the sixth night of Kwanzaa is centered on food and foodrelated festivities. Those in recovery from eating disorders can join in these events with an awareness of triggers and commitment to their existing treatment plans. This holiday was first established by Maulana Karenga, Ph.D., (pictured on next page by 7 traditions of Kwanzaa) in 1966 as part of the civil rights movement. Dr. Karenga introduced Kwanzaa, which takes place from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1 of each year, to create a sense of community among African Americans while giving them an opportunity to reconnect with their cultural roots. The holiday celebrates seven principles of unity, purpose, creativity, faith, selfdetermination, collection work and responsibility, and cooperative economics. Each of these principles is represented in a candle that is lit on one of the seven days of Kwanzaa.


KWANZAA FEAST A feast takes place on the sixth day of Kwanzaa, during which traditional African food is typically served. Since the holiday focuses on family and community, many who celebrate throw large parties in honor of this sixth day, which falls on New Year’s Eve. While this is meant to be a time of joy and unity, it can quickly turn sour for someone coping with resurfacing behaviors. Kwanzaa, as with any major holiday, can be triggering for those in eating disorder recovery. For this reason, it is important to maintain any

treatment plans currently in place. For instance, if someone is on a strict meal plan to prevent the resurgence of disordered behaviors, Kwanzaa is not the time to go off this plan and try intuitive eating for the first time. Similarly, regular appointments with a psychotherapist, psychiatrist, or registered dietician should not be disregarded just because it is the holiday season. Though it might be tempting for those in recovery to take a break from treatment during this time, their eating disorder voice will likely not be taking the same vacation.

THE MYTH A harmful myth has been circulating for decades that women of color do not get eating disorders. Gayle Brooks, Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer of The Renfrew Center Eating Disorder Treatment Facility, explains, “When eating disorders were first being recognized, people seeking treatment were young, white girls, so the belief developed early that nobody else suffers from them.” This misconception keeps many women of color from being diagnosed and seeking treatment for eating disorders. An individual’s vulnerability to an eating disorder is not dependent on skin color. Some use the argument that the African American community generally favors larger

body types than the white community as a reason for these women to not struggle with eating disorders. This attaches cultural shame to any African American women who do feel unhappy with their bodies, furthering the stigma attached to eating disorders within this community. Moreover, it reduces eating disorders to conditions based solely on body image issues, vastly oversimplifying these complex mental health disorders that result from a combination of genetic, social, cultural, and/or environmental factors. Food is used to celebrate but also as a drug to numb, comfort, and soothe… This is disordered eating.”

During Kwanzaa, those in recovery will likely be surrounded by loved ones who might engage in the disordered behaviors Abrams mentions. Awareness of this reality and a game plan regarding how to cope with such triggers can help an individual come out of the holiday with fun family memories and his or her recovery intact. Embracing the holiday, community, and traditional African rituals and cuisine can prove empowering during recovery. 7 Traditions of Kwanzaa

unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith

Paula Crane Center PAGE 16


NOVEMBER STATS FOR THE CRANE

SOCIAL MEDIA REACH NOVEMBER 2021

NOVEMBER 2021 Contacts

302

Unduplicated Contacts

119

Facebook Reach

3,103

Instagram Reach

2,693

WEBSITE STATS thecrane.org Site Sessions: 195

GOOGLE STATS

NOVEMBER 2020 Contacts Unduplicated Contacts

Business Profile Interactions: 551 343 63

Page Views

326

Direct Sessions

118

Asked for directions

75

Google Views

133

Called directly

32

Google Search

48

For the entire month of November, all activities at The Crane were focused on the gratefulness of the holiday season. From the breakfast and chit chat sessions to our Thanksgiving luncheon, Individuals were encouraged to bring to light what things in their life they were most thankful for. We ended the year of our dialogue diaries series with guest speaker Kim L. on November 18th, but don’t worry, the series will return next year with a few changes, all for the better! On November 19th our annual luncheon catered by Cracker Barrel highlighted the month as we named it “A day of gratefulness,” starting off with our usual breakfast, leading into Thanksgiving bingo where we brought back our “game within a game” where the winner of each session had to choose a blind prize, which sometimes end up being more fun than playing Bingo, itself. Our weekly meeting of Double Trouble was then held with Ms. Kathy of NAMI, afterwards, Ms. Bernice hosted an activity with the Individuals until the catered food arrived, where everyone was able to help themselves to a delicious meal. During the meal, Ms. Sheneta introduced her activity to the Individuals as we closed out the event with everyone leaving full in body and mind. Don’t miss this month as we embark on the holiday season and close out the year. We’ll even be giving a taste of what to look for in the upcoming year with our step aerobics, budgeting & money management workshops and many more. If you ever want to attend an event that we are hosting, just give us a call, you’re always welcomed at The Crane. Visit thecrane.org for list of current events. PAGE 17 Paula Crane Center


In-Person AA Meetings held at The Crane every Wednesday at 12 pm. This is an open meeting for anyone that would like to attend. Double Trouble Meetings, a combination of mental health and substance use disorders, are held every Friday in person at The Crane starting at1 pm. Peer Support Meetings are held Monday through Thursday at 2 pm and Fridays at 2:30 at The Crane. If you would like to attend virtually, give us a call. HIV and HEP-C Testing is available weekdays. We ask that you call for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcomed, but tester may or may not be available.

Paula Crane Center PAGE 18


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