JACKSON, Wyo. — As the sun sets earlier each day, the Teton County Health Department (TCHD) is providing tools to combat seasonal depression.
TCHD has revived its “Beat the Winter Blues” program after its launch last year to assist those struggling with fewer hours of daylight. The program is centered around a free, community-wide game of bingo that anyone can play and win. Squares encourage self-care habits and the use of free community mental health resources, including CredibleMind.
“Seasonal Affective Disorder is a set of depressive symptoms such as low energy, decreased interest in activities, sadness and changes in appetite tied to the darker, colder months of the year,” TCHD said in a statement. “Research shows healthy lifestyle habits, movement and social connection can help alleviate symptoms.”
Participants can print out a bingo card at home or pick one up at the Teton County Library, the Senior Center, the Mental Wellness Collaborative, Mental Health and Recovery Services of Jackson Hole, TCHD headquarters or the Teton County Parks and Recreation Center. Completed cards can be dropped off in those same locations for weekly drawings beginning the week of Monday, Nov. 10, and running through Friday, Dec. 12. Winners will be contacted after Dec. 12.
Prizes this year include light therapy lamps, Astoria Hot Springs tickets and more, TCHD shared. Complete activities listed on squares to cross them off; to be eligible for a prize, cover five squares on the board in any vertical, horizontal or diagonal row to get a bingo.
