Happy Friday!
During this busy season of parties and celebrations, it can be easy to overlook that there may be folks on your team or in your client community who may not feel the same holiday wonder and joy you do. Everyone has a story and not all stories are happy ones.
In fact, this time of year can be the most emotionally challenging for some people, who often suffer in silence.
In its 2022 COVID-19 Practitioner Impact Survey, the American Psychological Association reports that the demand for mental health services continues to increase while psychologists struggle to provide care. “Demand for anxiety and depression treatment remains high,” according to the survey results, “while demand for treatment for trauma- and stress-related disorders and substance use disorders has grown.” The report also states that there is increasing demand for mental health services from populations of color, younger people and health care workers, in particular.
As we’ve reported many times in Fitness Journal, exercise and community can have meaningful impact for those with depression and anxiety. As longtime IDEA contributing editor Shirley Eichenberger-Archer wrote in the latter of the two pieces linked above, “Historically, more stigma has been associated with mental ailments than with physical illnesses. Fortunately, as we gain understanding, compassion and transparency, our efforts to address mental health issues are improving. With mounting scientific evidence that exercise and physical activity can alleviate or help manage symptoms of the two most common disorders—anxiety and depression—fitness and wellness professionals have an important role to play.”
This also reminded me about the importance of inclusion (always), but especially in this season when people observe the holidays differently—or not at all. As you plan your seasonal gatherings, how will you ensure that all feel welcome and represented? Absorb some thoughtful ideas from Kia Williams, MS, on how to intentionally engage with clients and teammates during holidays to ensure that no one feels overlooked or excluded from your group festivities.
Finally, I encourage you to pause and look back at your accomplishments in 2022. Whether you succeeded alone or with a trusted team, celebrate both the big and the small victories, especially the stories of those countless individuals who inched closer to—or reached—their goals with your help. It’s vital that, as the hands, hearts and minds leading a profession of caring fitness and wellness leaders, you recognize and revel in all you’ve done to improve others’ lives. Doesn’t it feel stellar to be a catalyst for positive change?
A toast and high-fives to you and all of your good work!
From our team to you and yours, enjoy some quiet time, feel the love and get ready for an exciting 2023!
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