JACKSON, Wyo. — For this month’s mental health topic, the Teton County Health Department is highlighting nutrition. Read more below and visit the bilingual web-based platform CredibleMind to learn more about nutrition, mindful eating and when therapeutic intervention might be appropriate.

Any community member who 1, makes a profile and 2, takes a CredibleMind self-assessment will be entered a monthly raffle for local prizes throughout the winter months.

Eating behaviors are defined by our food options and choices, the amount we eat and the manner in which we eat (fast, slow, calm, upset, mindful, unaware, etc.). How we eat is influenced by a number of factors including:

  • Physiological and genetic: our hunger, fullness, satiety, palate and sensory experience of food are all influenced by our biological make-up and genetic factors.
  • Psychological: our stress levels, moods and ability to regulate our emotions impacts our relationship with food and how we use food as a substance to cope with emotional stressors.
  • Social: our family, peers, work environment, culture and social media have a significant impact on shaping our beliefs, feelings and attitudes about food and our body.
  • Economic: the cost of and accessibility of nutritious food is an important factor in food selection, and often can be a barrier to making healthy eating choices.

Unhealthy eating behaviors and habits can sometimes lead to an eating disorder, but help is available. Here are examples of the resources related to eating, nutrition and mental health found on CredibleMind:

Looking for affordable healthy food in Teton County? Check out Hole Food Rescue’s Food for the Community Program // Comida de la Comunidad. This program is a direct-to-community model that focuses on reducing barriers inherent to traditional food access such as time, location, language and choice. An important aspect of this program is the ability to diminish the stigma around food assistance by informing participants that the food they take home helps reduce food waste in Jackson. Click here for the Jackson Hole food map for all affordable food options in the community!

If you or a loved one are coping with an eating disorder, text NEDA to 741741 for confidential and free help. Find self-treatment resources and a local mental health provider directory at www.teton.crediblemind.com.

This programming has been made possible through generous funding from the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole’s Behavioral Health Initiatives Grant.