October is World Mental Health Month, a time when we come together to raise awareness about mental health and promote well-being for everyone in our communities. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s vital that we prioritize it for ourselves and those around us.
In Bozeman and Billings, many of us have faced challenges, whether it’s the stress of everyday life, the pressures of school or work, or simply feeling disconnected from others. This month is a great reminder that we’re all in this together, and there are steps we can take to improve our mental well-being. Here are five simple, yet effective things you can do every day to help boost your mental health—and how our community can support you along the way.
Start Your Day with Gratitude
Every morning, take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This could be anything from a warm cup of coffee to a text from a friend or even just the beauty of the mountains around us. Consider keeping a gratitude journal where you jot down three things each day that you appreciate. This practice can help shift your mindset and set a positive tone for the day ahead. Gratitude not only boosts your mood but also strengthens your connections with others, reminding you of the good in your life and the support you have around you.
Get Moving!
Physical activity is a powerful tool for mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that make you feel happier. Whether it’s hiking the scenic trails around Bozeman, cycling along the riverside in Billings, or even taking a brisk walk during your lunch break, moving your body can significantly lift your spirits. If you can, try to incorporate at least 30 minutes of exercise into your day. Joining local fitness classes or community sports teams can also help you meet new people, creating connections that can support your mental health.
Connect with Others
In our busy lives, it can be easy to feel isolated, even when we’re surrounded by people. Don’t underestimate the power of a good conversation! Reach out to friends or family members for a chat. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, going for a walk, or just a phone call, sharing how you’re feeling or talking about your day can help you feel more connected. If you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals in our community. They are here to listen and help you find the support you need. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.
Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
Taking a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness or meditation can greatly improve your mental clarity and reduce stress. Mindfulness helps you stay present and aware, which can lessen feelings of anxiety or sadness. Consider downloading a meditation app or finding guided sessions online that resonate with you. You can even try simple breathing exercises: sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take deep breaths in and out, focusing only on your breath. As you practice, you might find that these moments of stillness bring you peace and clarity amidst the busyness of life.
Make Time for Hobbies
Engaging in activities you love is essential for your mental health. Whether it’s painting, gardening, cooking, or reading, making time for hobbies that bring you joy can provide a much-needed escape from everyday stresses. Consider joining community groups or clubs that focus on your interests; not only will you nurture your passion, but you’ll also meet others who share your enthusiasm. This sense of community can be incredibly uplifting and provide a strong support system.
Why Mental Health in Our Local Community Matters
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other untreated mental health disorders can have a negative ripple effect. When one person struggles, it can impact friends, and families. By supporting each other and promoting open conversations about mental health, we create a stronger, more resilient community.
This World Mental Health Month, let’s commit to looking out for one another. If you notice someone in your life seems down or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out. Simple gestures—like checking in with a friend, offering to help, or just listening—can make a world of difference. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that it’s okay to ask for help.
In Bozeman and Billings, our team is dedicated to helping you navigate your mental health journey. We’re here to provide support, resources, and connections to ensure that you don’t have to go through this alone. Together, we can work towards a happier, healthier community, where everyone feels valued and supported. Let’s prioritize our mental well-being—not just this month, but every day.
TMS
by Deb (age 64)
Category: generalThe hoops I jumped through in order to be evaluated were straightforward and efficient. I met with PA Kaitlin for about an hour to discuss my history and previous medications. Then Dr. Amato joined us to further discuss my history, the TMS treatment, and answer any questions. Myrna gathered all of the information and submitted it to my health insurance company to request coverage for TMS. Fortunately, insurance approved the treatment and I was able to begin the next week. I’m sure most people have anxiety about starting a treatment like TMS. No matter how many times it’s described to you, there are many unknowns. How will I feel during treatment? Is it painful? What if this doesn’t work? What if it works for a while but then stops? In all honesty, I was very uncomfortable during the first couple of weeks of treatment. The alternating two seconds of tapping sensation caused some pain during treatment, and at the end of the first week I thought about quitting. But I had sworn to myself that TMS was a last resort and I HAD TO complete the treatment and give it a chance to work. My technician, Heather, told me that some people don’t feel the tapping at all, they only hear it. Guess I wasn’t one of those people! But as the days went by, it became easier to tolerate the treatments. During this time I also saw Lauren weekly for CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). This is highly recommended for people undergoing TMS treatment, and it was a positive complement to my total of 100 minutes each week “under the helmet”. The weekend between weeks three and four, I started to notice subtle improvements in my mood, increased belief in my self-worth, and enthusiasm for simple things like going for walks, meeting friends for lunch, and taking on volunteer work in the community. I hesitated at first to believe that TMS was helping me. I was afraid that I was convincing myself it was working because I so desperately wanted it to! But now that I am past the treatment I can say with cert
TMS
by Barbie (age 68)
Category: generalI feel so blessed to participate in the TMS protocol at MT Psychiatry. After struggling so many years with depression and not getting significant results from medication, particularly of late, I noticed positive results in the first two weeks of treatment. TMS can literally give you back the beauty & joy in living as well as the courage to make positive life changes and improvements in your daily living situation. I heartily encourage anyone to put yourself into the hands of the amazing TMS team who so gently and graciously make this journey with you out of the black hole that is depression. It is my honor and privilege to give the TMS treatment the highest recommendation.
TMS
by Shayne (age 66)
Category: generalI am grateful for the support and caring I have received from Dr. Amato (and Heidi, Heather and Myrna) in my quest for mental health and a fuller more productive life. While the TMS results have been subtle, I feel more positive about my future and I would recommend this team absolutely. Thank you!
TMS
by Carrie (age 65)
Category: generalNot realizing how fuzzy my head was, I thought I was only going through severe anxiety and depression. Through the insight of Pat, I was able to go through TMS treatments which brought down the anxiety and depression immensely and has cleared up the fuzzy, far off substantially. All the personnel treated me with kindness and I’m sure their attitudes helped in my recovery.
TMS
by Bridget (age 47)
Category: generalThe first outcome of TMS I noted happened early in my treatment, at about the beginning of week two. I felt as though my “brain fog” had been chipped away. I wish I could report that I feel my mental health issues are in “remission”, but I can’t do so yet. My hope is that I will see improvement in the weeks to come, now that my TMS cycle has ended. I can say that my brain feels – in some way – different; I can’t explain exactly how. I continue to struggle at this point in time but sill have hope for more improvement.
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