EPCS Mental Health

03/12/2025

Seeking community based behavioral health services? Reach out to us for more info!

01/03/2025

🌟 Let’s Connect & Collaborate in 2025! 🌟

As we move into the new year, I’m excited about building and strengthening relationships with referral sources—whether we’ve worked together before or we haven’t had the chance to meet yet. I’d love to set up some Lunch & Learns, in-service meetings, coffee dates, and CEU events to discuss how EPCS can support your team and enhance the services we offer together.

You can call, message, or email info@epcsmh.com to be in contact with our Community Liaison

12/31/2024

EPCS will be operating during normal business hours today! We will be accepting referrals for community stabilization, ACT, and MHSS!

https://epcsmh.com/referrals

12/26/2024

It’s always ok!

Remember you’re never alone, EPCS offers comprehensive services to those who are struggling with their mental health.

Check out www.epcsmh.com for more information about our services & how to get started with services!

12/22/2024

12/16/2024

The holidays can bring joy, but they can also be a challenging time for many. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember it's okay to not feel okay. Take time for yourself, set boundaries, and reach out for support if needed. Your mental health matters, and it's important to prioritize it just as much as the celebrations. Be kind to yourself, and know that it's okay to seek help, take breaks, and step back when needed. 💙

12/11/2024

🌟 Building Stronger Community Connections🌟

Each month, the EPCS team attends the VBPLA meetings to strengthen partnerships with our amazing local organizations. It’s always a great time connecting with community partners, enjoying delicious food, and learning about the valuable services offered right here in our area! 🤝

We’re grateful for the opportunity to collaborate and continue working together to support and uplift our community. Looking forward to next month’s gathering!

12/03/2024

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight. It is considered a type of major depressive disorder (MDD) with a seasonal pattern. Some people experience symptoms during the same time each year, often starting in the fall and continuing into the winter months, and then feeling better in the spring and summer.

Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder:
The symptoms of SAD are similar to those of depression and may include:

Low energy or fatigue
Irritability
Difficulty concentrating
Changes in sleep patterns (usually oversleeping or feeling excessively tired)
Increased appetite, especially cravings for carbohydrates or sweets
Weight gain
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Social withdrawal or isolation
Sluggish movements or thoughts
Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder:
The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Reduced sunlight exposure: Less sunlight during fall and winter months may disrupt the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm), affecting sleep, mood, and energy levels.

Vitamin D deficiency: Reduced sunlight can lead to lower levels of vitamin D, which plays a role in mood regulation.

Melatonin imbalance: The shorter days can lead to increased production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and mood, potentially contributing to feelings of fatigue and depression.

Serotonin levels: Reduced sunlight may also lower serotonin (a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood), leading to depressive symptoms.

Genetic and biological factors: People with a family history of depression or other mental health conditions may be more prone to developing SAD.

Types of Seasonal Affective Disorder:
Winter-pattern SAD: The most common form of SAD, where symptoms occur in the fall and winter, coinciding with shorter days.
Summer-pattern SAD: Less common, but some people experience depression symptoms during the warmer months, with symptoms like insomnia, loss of appetite, and restlessness.
Treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder:
SAD is treatable, and various approaches can help alleviate symptoms:

Light therapy: This involves exposure to a special light box that mimics natural sunlight, which can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and boost mood. It’s typically used in the morning for 20-30 minutes a day.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A type of therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depression. There’s a form of CBT specifically tailored for SAD (CBT-SAD).

Medication: Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be prescribed to manage symptoms. Some people find that medications help regulate mood and energy levels.

Vitamin D supplementation: If a person has low vitamin D levels, supplements may be recommended.

Lifestyle changes: Getting outside during daylight hours, exercising regularly, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying socially connected can also help improve mood.

Psychotherapy: In some cases, talk therapy or counseling can provide support and coping strategies.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of SAD, it's a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

11/29/2024

Please submit any referrals for Community Stabilization, ACT, or MHSS via our website www.epcsmh.com 😁

11/28/2024

FROM EPCS 💛🦃

11/27/2024

If you're experiencing an emergency please contact 911 or go to your local emergency room.

11/22/2024

Wanna learn more about EPCS, our services, or referral process? Let's set up a time to talk further! Contact us at info@epcsmh.com to get in contact with our Community Liaison