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Gratitude is top of mind for me this time of year, as the holiday season approaches. The season often brings more time to reflect, connect with family and friends, and the opportunity to take a step away from the fast pace and to-do lists of work and daily life. It is also true that this time of year can be painful for individuals unable to connect with loved ones, those who feel isolated, who are grieving, or where conflict makes joyful connection difficult. And so, compassion and gratitude go hand in hand. Finding compassion for others, both when it is easy, and when it is hard, makes way for gratitude to fill you up and overflow. Compassion is inherent in the important work that we do at Jefferson Center, as we recognize the human before us who struggles, who is imperfect, who has loss and pain, who has been criticized or rejected by others, and who has survived, sometimes without the support and resources that everyone deserves. Compassion for ourselves is equally important. Not one of us is without our own challenges. Sometimes we downplay or avoid the impact that our own struggles have on our wellbeing, as we focus on the needs of others.
I challenge you to take time this month to give something to yourself that you are needing, whether that is some time away from work, time to engage in a favorite hobby, however you define self-care---make a commitment to at least one thing this month that you have been thinking about and know you need. I also challenge you to recognize the moments of gratitude and compassion with others, and not to let them pass you by in the business of the day. The genuine smile given or received, words of appreciation, moments shared with another, the impact that you have on those around you, and the gift of giving.
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Colorado Gives Day a Success!
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Thanks to your support on Colorado Gives Day, we received over
130 donations totaling almost
$20,000! A portion of that amount will be matched by Community First Foundation and FirstBank, making your gift go even further.
On behalf of all of us here at Jefferson Center, thank you so much for your generosity, your support, and your passion for mental health.
To learn about other ways you can support our work at Jefferson Center, visit our website: jcmh.org/GetInvolved.
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4 Things to Remember this Holiday Season
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It is that time of year again; the days are getting shorter and the to-do lists are getting longer!
With good times ahead, there are so many reasons to celebrate. For some, this time of year can often mean stress lurking behind every celebration. Triggering family dynamics, the expectations of socializing, and the finances of trying to plan and provide the absolute perfect holiday experience for the family can bring about unwanted stress for many.
We all go into this season with the best of intentions and then we are slowly worn down by the long lines, hectic schedules and demands that come with balancing it all.
Let's do it differently this time so that you and your family can truly enjoy this time of year! It all starts with you
taking care of what is most important - YOU! Here are some tips and tricks to get you through the holiday season in a healthier, more balanced way to kick off your new year.
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Stay Present with a Simple Grounding Exercise
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When was the last time you stopped to smell the roses? With the excitement of the holiday season, it is important to remember to check in on yourself. Take a few moments with the below grounding exercise and bring yourself back to the here and now. Use this exercise on-the-go, at home or work, to bring yourself back to center.
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Jefferson Center is a nonprofit, community-focused mental health care and substance use services provider. We offer hope and support to individuals and families who are struggling with mental health issues and substance use disorders.
Serving our community is at the core of everything we do.
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Jefferson Center
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