On February 1st, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed the resolution proposing an end to slavery — the 13th Amendment of the country’s constitution. Freedom is one of the founding principles of the United States of America and this day was envisioned as a way for all citizens to take a moment to appreciate how lucky they are.
It’s also a day when you can look in the mirror and say to yourself, “what do I want to be free from today?” Freedom from addiction, freedom from depression, freedom from whatever may be holding you back. Take the time to look inside yourself, discover the problem, and make the changes needed to help you live your best life.
Freedom from addiction
Addiction is a psychological and physical inability to stop consuming a chemical, drug, activity, or substance, even though it is causing psychological and physical harm.
There are many resources available for those struggling with addiction. This could include alcohol, tobacco, vaping, or any drug use. Fremont County Prevention has gathered a number of resources to help you have conversations and help you quit.
- White Buffalo Youth/Tobacco Prevention: Melissa Friday, (307) 335-3069
- You Can Quit Now
- Smoke-Free – Quitting is a Journey.
- Facts for Parents about E-Cigarettes and Vaping
- The Truth
- Partnership for Drug-Free-Kids
- Above the Influence
- One Tough Job
- Parent Talk Kit
- SAMSHA National Helpline
- Rethinking Drinking
Freedom from depression or poor mental health:
Self-care tips
It’s important to practice self-care and things that support emotional and mental health during stressful times. Here are some suggestions from To Write Love on Her Arms:
- Practice mindfulness using meditation apps like Calm and Headspace. You can also check out this body scan meditation from our friend Tianna Soto and these yoga and breathing exercises from our friends at Move to Heal.
- Explore virtual or remote counseling options such as Talkspace.
- Reach out to those you love by calling or texting. Ask for and offer reassurance as best you can.
- Follow guidelines suggested by trustworthy sources. World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are both trusted and reliable.
- Schedule regular breaks from the news and social media by stepping outside and engaging in self-care activities: watch a favorite movie, read a book, listen to podcasts, etc.
- Look to the future with hope by holding on to the things that bring you joy.
Fremont County Prevention has gathered a number of resources to help you have those tough conversations about mental health and suicide prevention. Click here for a complete list of resources.
For more information and resources on any of these topics, visit https://fremontcountyprevention.com/.
