Monthly Mental Health Moment: April 2023
March/April 2023
Over the past months, there have been a couple of events that allow us to reflect on the importance of mental health. In March, we sprang ahead. Spring is often a time when peoples’ moods seem to improve as we get more daylight. Yet, losing an hour of sleep can have a significant impact. There is evidence that fatal car accidents increase by 6% the week after we spring ahead. It is believed that the time shift leads to sleep deprivation. Individuals end up operating as if they were jet-lagged.
Consider what that means for many of us as we work in the medical field. Sleep deprivation is something that seems to be taken as a matter of course. Residents, in particular, struggle to get enough sleep. Evidence shows that averaging 7 hours of sleep per night can lead to less burnout. Are you prioritizing your sleep? Sleep hygiene is important. If you are struggling to get enough sleep, look at your evening and morning routines.
If you need help, reach out of our office. There are many conditions that can impact sleep.
Then on April 1, we had April Fool’s Day! There are two ways that I reflect on this. One is to remind everyone that good mental health is no joke! Take a moment and think about how you are feeling. Are you struggling with feeling down or anxious; unmotivated or overwhelmed? Think about what you might need to get back on track—maybe more sleep? Make sure you connect with others! Focus on breathing and re-centering yourself! There are many techniques that we can use to help improve our moods. If you feel like you are struggling, reach out.
One way to feel better is to use humor! While good mental health is no joke, laugher can be a way for us to improve our outlook on life. Dr. Baweja has led laughter therapy groups for our office. Laughter can help decrease stress and help release our “feel good” hormones. Have you watched something fun recently? Read a humorous book? Shared jokes with a friend? Or tossed your head back and laughed just for the fun of it? Give it a try!
Get enough sleep and bring some laughter and joy into your life!
Best,
Martha Peaslee Levine, MD
Director of the Office for Professional Mental Health
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In This Month's Newsletter
May 10: Mental Health Awareness Event—in the hall by PMH and ABP. Information and fun activities!
Ongoing: PMH offers wellness talks, orientation and QPR training for students, residents, fellows and faculty. Please, contact our office if you want information about how to schedule a session.
Email: pmh@pennstatehealth.psu.edu
Phone: 717-531-8658
Set a regular sleep schedule
Limit bright light before bed—electronic devices off
Exercise regularly
Evaluate your environment—cool, dark, quiet?
Put your worries away – write them down and close the book
&
Hahahaha – make some laughing sounds
Use your belly to laugh
Make the corners of your mouth turn up: fake it to make it
Opportunities to laugh abound; open yourself up
Reach out to someone fun
“The replacement of sedentary behaviour with moderate-to-intense exercise indeed improved sleep quality.”
“…human laughter both upregulates the brain’s endorphin system and increases the sense of bonding between those who laugh together.”
Penn State College of Medicine
Office for Professional Mental Health
500 University Drive, Suite C1746
Hershey, PA 17033
717-531-8658
pmh@pennstatehealth.psu.edu
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