JACKSON, Wyo. — As the sun sets earlier each day, the Teton County Health Department (TCHD) is providing tools to combat seasonal depression.
TCHD has launched the “Beat the Winter Blues” program 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, sadness, changes in appetite, etc.,” TCHD wrote in its announcement. “Seasonal Affective Disorder is when these depressive symptoms are tied to seasonal changes such as during the darker, colder months of the year. 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, TCHD headquarters or the Teton County Parks and Recreation Center. Completed cards can be dropped off in those same locations for weekly drawings beginning on Monday, Nov. 18 and running through Friday, Dec. 13. English and Spanish options are available.
Raffle prizes are at stake! Participants can win light therapy lamps, movie tickets, hot springs soaks and more. To win, cover five squares in any vertical, horizontal or diagonal row.
