News

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that affects a person during a particular season, traditionally during winter months. Anyone can get SAD and although experts are not certain exactly what causes it, many think it may be related to a lack of light that upsets the sleep-wake cycle and other body rhythms.This can impact the brain chemical serotonin that affects mood.

Symptoms include feeling sad, grumpy or moody; losing interest in usual activities, being more hungry and gaining weight, and sleeping more and feeling drowsy during the day. Symptoms usually start around September or October and can run through April or May. Traditional treatments include light therapy: bright light and dawn simulation, short-term anti-depressants, and regular moderate exercise. Contact a local psychiatrist for more information, diagnosis and treatment options.

2010 NAMI Walk – Save The Date

Butte County NAMI will host its first annual NAMI walk on April 24, 2010. Right now volunteers are assembling to help plan the major fundraiser. The next committee meeting is January 21, 2010 from 7:00 – 9:00 PM at Butte County Library Chico Branch at 1108 Sherman Avenue. Anyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. Be sure to visit the NAMI Butte County website for more information – www.namibuttecounty.org.

Volunteer Request

Mona Martine RT, a recreational therapist that works for Therapeutic Solutions is looking for a behind-the-scenes volunteer to help with small woodworking projects for therapy projects. If you have some time to give and enjoy working on woodworking projects, please contact Mona at MMartine@TherapeuticSolutionsPC.com. Thank you in advance.

Laughing Yoga

Almost everyone has heard of yoga: Iyengar, Bikram and Power are several different types. However, in the realm of recreational therapy, many have not heard of the benefits of something called ‘laughing yoga’. This type of yoga is a revolutionary idea created by Dr. Madan Kataira, a physician from Mumbai. He started the first laughter club in 1995. There are now more than 6000 Social Laughter Clubs in 60 countries. The concept of Laughter Yoga is based on a scientific fact that the body can not differentiate between fake and real laughter. This type of therapy allows them to get the same physiological and psychological benefits of laughter. If you’re interested in learning more about this type of therapy, contact Mona Martine, RT at mmartine@TherapeuticSolutionsPC.com or visit Laughter Yoga International at www.laughteryoga.org.
Mona Martine, RT provides the recreational therapy for Therapeutic Solutions’ patients.