Beating the blues
VCH staff have the tools and resources to beat the blues and depression.
As our never-ending winter finally came to a close this year, VCH nurse “Joanne” was really looking forward to warm temperatures and flowers.
“Winter’s so dark and depressing for me so I was really anticipating the new season,” she says. “But when spring finally arrived, I was still depressed – I still felt blue and didn’t know why.”
Does it sound familiar? What Joanne experienced is called the “spring effect,” a form of depression that people experience when they expect spring and summer to bring happiness that may have been missing during the grey months.
Stacy Sprague
“It’s not uncommon that as the long dark west coast winter draws to a close and the days get brighter and longer many people look forward to that feeling of relief and renewal,” says Dr. Stacy Sprague, a registered psychologist and director of VCH’s Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP). “They’re basically looking forward to improved mood and energy. If that sense of renewal doesn’t happen, those people may continue to feel very blue or down, and we call this the ‘spring effect’.”
What Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP ) can do
If this feels familiar, EFAP has counselling services (in person, online and via video) to help you get through the “summertime blues.”
In addition to these counseling resources EFAP also has:
- Beating the Blues a free, confidential online, peer-reviewed cognitive behavioural treatment program for staff and their families going through mild to moderate depression and anxiety. This interactive program is structured around eight modules (link to brochure) that empower you to conquer your depression and anxiety.
- LifeHub is a suite of online programs that provides a range of proactive mental health support for staff and their families.
- EFAP also offers a number of other supportive options under “Resources” on its website
What you can do
- Pay attention to your moods and energy levels. If you realize that you begin to feel sad, have less energy, or find yourself engaging in unhealthy behaviours, plan activities that will help to boost your energy and shift your mood.
- Expose yourself to as much bright light as you can. During these sunny days, go outside. Serotonin from the sun makes us feel better – take advantage of it!. If it is grey and overcast, turn on all the lights inside. Use broad spectrum light bulbs.
- Stay physically active, and begin your physical activity before you begin to feel that energy drain. Go for a walk. It really that easy that and that important. Consider a pedometer or a “Fit Bit” to measure steps and improve your wellness
- Don’t feel ashamed or try to hide it if you do start to feel like your depression is getting out of control. Many people feel this way.
- Consider trying out the proven Beating the Blues Program…it’s available 24/7 and it completely confidential – and it works!
- Contact EFAP at 1.800.505.4929 or speak to your family physician.
Self-screening test
□ Low mood
□ Low energy
□ Poor sleep
□ Poor appetite
□ Reduced memory
□ Reduced concentration
□ Feelings of hopelessness
□ Thoughts about harming yourself
If you checked four or more of these boxes, you should talk to your doctor or contact EFAP.
Related links
Take the Feeling Better Now assessment to identify depression and other mental illnesses.
A VCH psychiatrist says people have the power to fight mental illness.
Find out what your stress level is.
For more stories in celebration of mental health week, May 6 – 12, visit the VCH/PHC Regional Mental Health & Addiction News site.