Let’s Talk About Mental Health: Anticipating seasons of change 

Committing to take care of ourselves and each other as fall approaches 

By Michelle Kendziorski and Allison Bradac GUEST COLUMNISTS 

Summer in Big Sky is no doubt beautiful. And so is the winter. And so is that in-between time we call fall, when the leaves are a-blazing. Even though the colors can be magnificent and the hiking trails less congested, it’s important to realize how changing seasons may present additional stress or anxiety to many individuals. 

Taking care of your own mental health is crucial, and it’s equally important to be mindful of the mental health of those around you, especially as seasonal changes approach.  

Seasonal changes can impact mental health, often leading to increased stress, changes in mood, or even seasonal affective disorder. Being proactive about mental health during these times is important. This could mean maintaining routines, seeking sunlight or adjusting your self-care practices to fit the season. 

Mental health is often interconnected within families and close relationships. If someone close to you is struggling, it can affect your own mental state and vice versa. Healthy, supportive relationships can provide a buffer against stress and emotional difficulties. 

When you prioritize your mental health, you’re better equipped to offer support to others. Conversely, if those close to you are struggling and you aren’t addressing your own mental health needs, it can create a cycle of stress and emotional strain. 

Addressing mental health proactively can prevent more serious challenges down the line. This might involve regular check-ins with yourself and your family members, setting aside time for self-care, or seeking professional help when needed. 

By fostering open communication and understanding within your family and friends, you create an environment where everyone feels supported. This mutual support promotes a more balanced and healthier atmosphere, a strong foundation in mental health which helps provide a buffer in the face of life’s challenges.  

Understanding seasonal affective disorder 

As the seasons change, it’s a great time to evaluate your mental health strategies and check in with your loved ones. Encourage open conversations about how everyone is feeling and discuss any adjustments that might be helpful during this transitional period. 

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that can set in the same time each year, commonly in the fall and into the winter months. Symptoms can include feeling down or listless consistently, losing interest in the activities you often love, low sluggish energy, or unusual alterations in your sleep and appetite. While it’s normal to have some days when you experience some or many of these symptoms, be mindful of your feelings and others when these symptoms increase or seem to become regular.  

While we do not know the specific causes for SAD, we do know that factors like decreased sunlight can cause a decrease in serotonin levels, impacting mood, and a decrease in melatonin levels, impacting sleep. These all play valuable vital roles in our mental health. If you can recognize these symptoms early in yourself or your friends, meeting with a counselor can help. And supporting each other is something we all can do—although cliché, we are indeed stronger together. 

September is upon us, and it is national Suicide Prevention Month.  

We can each do our part to recognize how seasons can affect all of us and simply to acknowledge and be present in the lives and community that surround us. We—Michelle and Allison—will be walking with Wellness In Action as part of Team Big Sky in the Out of the Darkness Walk on September 8 at Lindley Park in Bozeman. We hope you’ll join us to support the American Foundation for Suicide Preventions—register  here. 

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to speak with a trained counselor 24/7.  

Michelle Kendziorski is the board president for Wellness in Action and is committed to community connectedness by advocating for mental health. She supports WIA as the first organization in Big Sky to provide affordable and accessible options for better mental healthcare and knows firsthand how essential these services are for our community. 

Allison Bradac is the executive director for Wellness in Action. She continues to be encouraged by Big Sky’s commitment to improve mental health and is hopeful for more resources and increased accessibility to care.