Cold Hands Warm Heart

Here at the League our fingers are almost too frozen to type. We are so cold, however, that we see a previously unknown bright spot in the midst of the “Covid Chaos:” the past two winters were unseasonably mild. Perhaps this winter will have enough deep freezes to kill the virus? Well, we can hope anyway.

• Members have inquired about our plans for the CUNA GAC and we have an update for you below. More information to come. The League is also considering whether to host another Connecticut GAC similar to the one we held last year. Please let us know your thoughts on that idea.

• In service to you and in recognition that we exist to bring you value, the League Services Corp sent out a survey today seeking your feedback. Please respond to the link in your email of earlier today or you can access it here: https://us16.list-manage.com/survey?u=e963a78294d8dc4d01eb2ac4d&id=680232f085&attribution=false

A final note: as we emerge from another Covid holiday season into an Omicron surge and deep freeze, now is a good time to pause and remind ourselves of the potential that our friends, families, and coworkers may be feeling the effects of the Holiday Blues.

This reminder of the importance of self-care (along with the wonderful TV show Ted Lasso) came not a moment too soon. For me. the holidays and Omicron hit me with a one-two punch that really knocked me for a loop.

In this helpful article, Rachel Weir, MD, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Huntsman Mental Health Institute, shares her expertise and tips on making this holiday season more enjoyable—for everyone. Here is an excerpt:

The holiday season may be “the most wonderful time of the year," but it’s the most dreaded for some. The holidays fill the air with happiness and cheer, yet they can also carry stress and sadness for many people, especially those who deal with an underlying mental health condition.

It’s essential to recognize how you are feeling, Weir says. If you notice yourself feeling more down, irritable, tearful, or exhausted, or having more difficulties with your sleep or appetite than usual, it’s time to ask for help.

If you have already been diagnosed with depression or an anxiety disorder in the past, it may be time to check in with your treating clinician to see about adjusting your treatment. If you have never been diagnosed with depression but are experiencing some of the symptoms above, you may consider seeing your primary care provider or a mental health professional to assess and possibly start treatment.

Watch for Changes in Mood

Many things can help your changing mood that are outside of traditional treatment. “It’s imperative to realize when your mood starts to fall, there is usually a drop in activities that contribute to positive mood,” Weir says. “When you start to feel bad, you tend to do less, and when you do less, you can end up feeling even worse.”

Be well and be kind.

As always,
Bruce