Angst Movie

Photo as seen in The Mighty

Let's be honest, we all know the drill. Our New Year's resolutions are lucky to last through the first few months of the new year. Here are few alternative resolutions to start off your year right, especially if you struggle with a mental illness.

Try setting New Year’s self-care goals. Keep your mental health in mind when setting your resolutions. Your self-care should be a priority.

Set smaller, more attainable goals. A step-by-step goal guide can be more satisfactory than one, unattainable resolution.

Put yourself first. Your mental and physical health is most important.

Start small. Once those small goals are met, you can set even more!

Spread them out. Check in with your goals throughout the year to set new ones or readjust.

Do nothing! You don't have to make resolutions, especially if you set goals just fine throughout the year.

Accept where you are. Don't compare your goals and resolutions with others. If you don't meet them, don't blame yourself. We're all human.

Celebrate who you are. Your goals should reflect and respect who you are.

Goals by The Mighty. Read the article here.

Behind the scenes filming Angst

RESOURCES & TOOLS Child Mind Institute Symptom Checker: A tool to help determine possible diagnoses

ANGST IN THE NEWS Hawaii News Now: A new film about anxiety has this message - Let's talk about it

"Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me." – Carol Burnett

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Photo as seen in Bustle

According to a study published in the Telegraph, 10 million Brits believe that New Year's is the most depressing night of the year. Psychologist Dr. Larry Kubiak says that when an opportunity to be reflective arises, there is the possibility of becoming more depressed, especially if one already struggles with depression. It's important to note that feeling depressed and struggling with clinical depression are two different things. People can feel similarly, just someone who is diagnosed with depression might feel their symptoms heightened. Since New Year's Eve is often associated with partying, people feel stress and anxiety around this time particularly because of social norms and peer pressures. New Year's resolutions also could make one feel more depressed. Self-improvement resolutions make people who struggle with mental illness feel like they are inadequate, especially if they don't live up to the standards they set. Even thinking about setting resolutions is difficult for people who struggle with depression because it requires energy, which people with this illness don't have a lot of in the first place. Make sure to set goals that are right and attainable for you. Try not to compare yourself with others. Try not to feel bad if you don't make it to the party and know that if you have depressed feelings, you are not alone. Most importantly, if your depression worsens, make sure to reach out to someone who can help. Research and main ideas from the article in Bustle. 

RESOURCES & TOOLS Mayo Clinic: Tips for coping with stress, depression, and the holidays

ANGST IN THE NEWS ParentMap: "Anxiety Is Universal" — And How This Documentary Will Help

"Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves." – Henry David Thoreau

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

The holidays can be a stressful time mentally, physically, and emotionally. They sometimes tend to add stress to your regular daily stressors. Here are a few ways to help you stay grounded and mentally healthy this holiday season.

Recognize that the people in your life are who they are. You can't change everybody - even the ones who may have a negative impact on your life. Try focusing on the one's who make you feel good.

Organize your thoughts but give yourself permission to let some things go. Set some time every morning to write down what you have to do that day. This will help you stay focused on your goals. Don't beat yourself up if you don't get to everything. Tomorrow is a new day.

Take time every day to enjoy something about the season. Whether it's setting up the Christmas tree, giving gifts, drinking a glass of eggnog before bed, try and do something that will help you to enjoy this time of year.

Take care of yourself. You might feel busier during the holidays. Make sure to give yourself time to exercise, eat, and get enough sleep. Taking care of yourself should be a priority.

Reach out. If you are feeling lonely, reach out to a family member or friend. Help out at a charity event or your local humane society. Give back to your community.

Do random acts of kindness. Pay it forward. Buy someone coffee. Donate to a canned food drive. Volunteer at an event. Compliment someone. Hold the door open for the person behind you. A small act of kindness can go a long way.

Be grateful. Appreciate what you have rather than wishing for something you don't. The holidays can sometimes feel excessively material so spending some time thinking about what you might be thankful for in your life can make you feel a little better.

Read the rest of the article in PsychCentral here. (Main ideas by PsychCentral)

Angst at Richardson High School @RHSAVIDBrown

RESOURCES & TOOLS Woebot: Daily lessons, check-ins, and quick conversations to help you feel better

ANGST IN THE NEWS McLean Connection: Safe Community Coalition Shines a Light on Youth Anxiety

“Every moment is a fresh beginning.”

– T.S. Eliot

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Living with mental illness is challenging, especially if you are living through the tumultuous days of high school. Here are 5 important things to keep in mind as you, your kids, or your friends are getting through this time.

You are not alone. Sometimes it may feel like you are the only one who is struggling. Many people, including possibly yourself, might be hiding the fact they are struggling with mental illness. It is more common than you think and you have nothing to be ashamed of if you have one. It also is important to realize that you never know what someone might be going through.

There are adults who want to help and can relate to what you’re going through. Adults may seem like they are in a whole different realm as you. But it's more than likely they might have experienced similar feelings. And most importantly, they can help and offer advice.

Start the conversation. Don't be afraid to speak up if you believe your school might benefit from raising awareness around mental health. The conversation has to start somewhere.

If your mental illness affects your grades, it is not a personal failure. Mental illness is a chemical imbalance in the brain. Living with a mental health issue can affect the way we work, focus, study, practice, etc. By accepting the fact that it might take a little more intention or focus to get things done, you are one step closer to your goals.

Reach out. The most important thing you can do. If you are struggling or if you see someone else struggling, tell someone. Even if you aren't sure it's the right person, they can help direct you to someone who can help. Someone will always be there to help in times of need.

Read the article featured in The Mighty. (Main ideas by The Mighty)

RESOURCES & TOOLS Moodnotes (App): Capture your feelings, improve your thinking habits

ANGST IN THE NEWS Fox KTVU: Livermore screens film on teen anxiety in memory of boy who died from suicide

"Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next."

- Gilda Radner

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Photo as seen in The Mighty 

People who struggle with anxiety or depression often have difficulty feeling the holiday cheer around this time of year. A time meant for friends and families to come together and celebrate isn't always easy, especially if you are going through something hard. Here are a few tips to help you get through the holiday season with a focus on self-care:

1. Take time for yourself. Remember that you deserve happiness as well. Sometimes you might need a moment alone to help collect your thoughts, and that's ok.

2. Connect with your breath. Whether it's from the stress of holidays, social anxiety, or the in-laws, seeking a quiet spot to catch up with your breathing is a good way to relax.

3. Be mindful about drug and alcohol use. If you decide to partake in refreshments, remember to be mindful and make sure you do what's best for you.

4. Practice a healthy relationship with food. Don't let the holidays dictate how you eat. Maintain a balance and stay healthy.

5. Take care of yourself during difficult interactions with family. Small talk or other social interactions with friends or family members can be difficult. Try having someone to reach out to when you need a break or find a space to take some time away from the hubbub.

6. Make room for grief during the holidays if you are missing loved ones who have passed. Save some time for reflection and remember that it's ok to be both happy and sad at the same time, even during the holidays.

7. Remember that holiday stress will pass. Just like other times of high anxiety, the stress of the holiday season will soon come to a close. Try to make the best of it while keeping your happiness in mind. Read the full article in The Mighty here. (Ideas by the Mighty)

RESOURCES & TOOLS R U OK: Tips for checking in with someone who might be struggling

ANGST IN THE NEWS East Bay Times: After teen’s suicide, Pleasanton family advocates for mental health awareness

"Whatever path you take, you’re going to get there”  - Samantha Nimmo 

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Knowing what to get your loved ones for the holidays can be difficult, especially if that someone struggles with anxiety or depression. Sometimes you just want to give them something meaningful that could help. Here are a few suggestions:

Weighted blanket - for increased comfort or security.

Pill box - while there is never any shame in taking medication, a cool pill box adds a little fun.

Books - whether they are self-help books or a good novel, books help us provide an escape that's healthy.

Self-care items - soap, shampoo, skin-care, toiletries, etc.

Heating or massage pad - to help relieve stress from built up anxiety.

Socks - as we get older, almost everyone loves getting a warm or fun pair of socks as a gift.

Candles - calming scents and a small light that shows you the way even in your darkest moments.

Noise-cancelling headphones - to help block out distractions while you study or work.

Journal - a place to help organize and write down your thoughts.

Puzzles - a good mind focusing tool and reliever of other built up stress

For more ideas, see the article in The Mighty here. (Gift ideas by The Mighty)

Dr. Jerry Bubrick & Producer Scilla Andreen

RESOURCES & TOOLS Huff Post: How to Stop Automatic Negative Thoughts

ANGST IN THE NEWS Cleveland.com: Fairview Park City Schools schedules different events around 'Angst' documentary

"Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible'!" - Audrey Hepburn 

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

As certain societal norms and expectations shift, the amount of anxiety teens face increases. The pressure to be perfect, the fear of failure, and the constant concern of how they appear in the eyes of their peers are all anxiety-inducing stressors that are incorporated into young people's lives.

Psychology Today outlines 10 reasons anxiety has increased in teens:

Electronics provide an unhealthy way to fill time. Using games or social media to avoid boredom or sadness does not give a young person the ability to learn to cope in these situations.

Happiness is always the goal. Parents strive to have their children happy. In response, when a kid feels down, the kid feels like it is not normal to feel that way.

Parents give unrealistic praise to children. Pushing a child to believe they are the best creates pressures that can be unattainable.

Parents put too much pressure on teens. From SAT courses, to multiple sports, to private tutors, parents ingrain in young people's minds that staying busy and being the best is the only way to be successful or get into college.

Young people are not learning how to manage their emotions. In light of all the pressures to succeed, kids aren't being taught how to manage stress which makes them ill-prepared for when stressors like college come into their lives.

Parents feel the need to protect rather than guide, which leads to overprotectiveness and the belief that the kid cannot manage life on their own.

Not learning to face their fears. If something causes anxiety, frequently parents will not expose their kid to whatever is causing the fear. In reality exposure is a vital coping strategy.

Parents use their own anxieties to affect the way they raise their children. Feeling guilty by saying no to a child and giving in or not letting a child go to something because it makes the parent nervous can affect how the child views discomfort.

Too much structure in a young person's life limits the amount of free time they have to think, be creative, and manage things on their own.

Kids want to be led by their parents, but in a way that is healthy and influential; not controlling.

To read the 10 reasons in more detail, see the rest of the article here. Ideas by Psychology Today.

Photo via @OFCSSuper - Angst at Olmsted Falls

RESOURCES & TOOLS 

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): Anxiety Tips & Coping Stratgies

ANGST IN THE NEWS

Cleveland.com: Olmsted Falls City Schools and PTA Council team up to tackle teen anxiety

“Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but from wanting to control it.” Samantha Gluck 

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Photo as seen in the Mighty

Everyone feels a little lonely sometimes. And that's ok. But sometimes too much loneliness isn't healthy. Not everyone has the same support systems that other people might have so reaching out for help may be difficult. It's important to know though; there's always someone out there to listen.

Here are a few suggestions of ways to reach out and/or not feel so alone:

Find a Facebook group or other groups via social media that share common interests with you. Something good that comes from social media are the communities that are formed and are readily accessible by users.

Spend time with animals. Whether its a pet or a trip to a farm or humane society, there's something about animals that can bring you comfort. Unconditional love is powerful.

Join a book club. Books helps immerse us in different worlds, even if it's just for a little while. Connecting over characters, ideas, themes, and stories has the opportunity to create strong bonds between people.

Find a support group in your area. Support groups are typically run by mental health professionals and bring together people who usually are also struggling with mental health or loneliness.

Volunteer. Doing something for others can help show you how meaningful life can be. It also can allow you to meet people and help you discover things you are passionate about.

To read more about these suggestions and find specific things to look at or try, see the rest of the article here. (Main ideas from The Mighty.)

RESOURCES & TOOLS Max Impact TBI app:  A reliable back-pocket support system for veterans who experience challenges from traumatic brain injuries (TBI). (iOS, Android)

ANGST IN THE NEWS The Almanac: Sequoia district continues push for mental health awareness

“It’s okay to feel unstable. It’s okay to disassociate. It’s okay to hide from the world. It’s okay to need help. It’s okay not to be okay. Your mental illness is not a personal failure.”

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Photo as seen in The Mighty 

There are many benefits to rising before the sun. Some of these benefits are also good for our mental health. As you begin the day, think about how being an early riser might kick off your week on the right foot. Here are a few examples:

Skipping snooze makes you feel empowered and in control of your day.

Having a plan for the day is better than feeling rushed for work or school.

Giving yourself time to exercise is good for the body and the brain.

You will have time to check in with loved ones including yourself.

Start feeling better connected by checking the news or getting a head start on work.

Get a good night's sleep, drink some coffee, and have a wonderful week!

Main ideas from The Mighty. Read the article here.

RESOURCES & TOOLS Talkspace: Therapy for All - get therapy without having to go to an office 

ANGST IN THE NEWS The Fix: Michael Phelps Speaks Out About Battling Depression, Anxiety

“Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.”

― Benjamin Franklin

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

About 1 in 3 people with an eating disorder are male (NEDA). In an article published in VICE, a young male talks about how stigmatized eating disorders are for men. Males with mental health disorders, including eating disorders, struggle with an increased stigma around mental health because they are held to a higher societal standard of appearing tough and strong; mental illness would make them look weak. (Note: this is based on societal norms. Men and women both face mental health stigma.) It has become ingrained in our minds that any type of eating disorder is a "female" problem. The author says, " I couldn't accept that I suffered from anorexia because I considered it a 'teenage girl' problem. That was what society had led me to believe. There's obviously enormous societal pressure on women to conform to physical ideals, but the outcome is dire for anorexic men, too, because many simply don't think they can be anorexic." The statistics for male eating disorders is likely inaccurate because it is only based on those that are reported to health facilities. One of the main takeaways from the article is that having the knowledge about what an eating disorder is, how to identify it, and when and how to ask for help is key. That author concludes, "Clearly, we need a far more open dialogue, expanded education in schools surrounding eating disorders and mental illness across all ages, sexes, and demographics. We need to foster environments where children have the knowledge and confidence to speak up when they're not feeling well." Eating disorders such as anorexia should be treated like any other mental health condition and most importantly, be treated and discussed equally between males and females. Main ideas and quotes from the article, "Why It's So Hard to Talk About Male Anorexia" (VICE). 

RESOURCES & TOOLS American Addiction Centers: Anorexia in Men and Boys: Treatment and Statistics

ANGST IN THE NEWS Jewish Link of New Jersey: Yeshivat Noam Screens Documentary About Angst

“Giving parents and children the skills to recognize and manage anxiety can be transformative.” ― Yeshivat Noam Angst testimonial

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

By being mindful of our anxiety, in some cases we can use it to our advantage. The way we think about our anxiety has a big effect on how we perceive ourselves and go about our daily lives. Instead of looking at anxiety negatively, let it be an opportunity to put yourself in check. Here are a few ways to do so:

Think of anxiety as a signal. Anxiety is uncomfortable. By taking a moment to think about why you might be feeling anxious can distract from the anxiety itself and help you focus, rationalize, and come up with a solution.

Label the feeling to steer your experience. Identifying why you are feeling anxious in the first place is a much better tactic than focusing on the discomfort. Instead of "I'm anxious" ask yourself "why am I anxious?"

Aim for balance. Anxiety is a normal feeling. Try not to let the fear of anxiety get in the way of your life. Think of it as a way to take a step back and re-channel your energy into something that is within your control.

Ideas and main points by Dr. Alicia Clark. Read the article in the NYT here. 

Note: these tips may not be for everyone. They are a simple way to remind yourself what you have control over. 

RESOURCES & TOOLS MindShift™ App: An app that will help you learn how to relax, develop more helpful ways of thinking, and identify active steps that will help you take charge of your anxiety.

ANGST IN THE NEWS Ronnie's Awesome List (Podcast): Karin Gornick, producer of Angst, talks about coping with anxiety

“Never give up on someone with a mental illness. When "I" is replaced by "We", illness becomes wellness.” ― Shannon L. Alder

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Many studies show that social media isn't good for our mental health. Forbes cites a handful of facts and studies about the negative affects it can have on our lives:

It can be addictive: studies show it can have similar affects that other addictions have on our minds.

It can cause more sadness: it is known to cause more social isolation. The more we use social media, the more sad we tend to be.

It is mentally unhealthy to compare ourselves to others: comparing whether we are better or worse off than others based on social media posts is not mentally healthy.

Jealousy: envy and jealousy can lead to more mental health problems.

We believe going on social media can help us in times of loneliness: but in fact makes us feel worse.

To read the full article and see the studies these facts are based on, visit here.

Angst panel discussion at Mill Valley Film Festival 

RESOURCES & TOOLS Angst Clip: Anxiety and the mind-gut connection

ANGST IN THE NEWS The Missourian: District to Show ‘Angst’ To Students, Community — Public Can View Film October 24

"A head full of fears has no space for dreams." -Unknown

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

For so many young people, adolescence is a time full of change. New schools, stress, politics, social media, humanitarian crises, etc., all play a role in young peoples' lives around the world. More than ever, understanding and managing mental health is an important part of growing up. Educating kids about mental health and providing the tools and resources for them to talk about it is essential. The World Health Organization provides a few reasons why young people should be the focus of this year's World Mental Health Day (and every day). Half of all mental illness begins by age 14. Mental health disorders begin at an early age. Targeting these illnesses early can help children who are struggling. It also can prevent issues from getting worse. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young people ages 15-29 (World Health Org). Recognizing the importance of mental resilience. Giving children and young people the tools to manage mental health early on has benefits both in the short term and long term. Mental health has an effect on an individual level but can also affect what a person brings to work, school, friend groups, family, etc. Prevention begins with better understanding. Having the tools and knowledge of how to manage one's mental health as well as knowing when to ask for help should be a priority. When young people are educated in the arena of mental health, they have a better understanding of how to manage stress or anxiety, when to seek treatment, and the knowledge that they are not alone. Read the rest of the article here. Facts and main points from the World Health Organization.

RESOURCES & TOOLS Psychology Today: Top 10 Simple Tools to Reduce Anxiety

ANGST IN THE NEWS Chicago Tribune: Homewood-Flossmoor high school presents public screening of film about anxiety, with panel discussion

“Having a public program like this helps to breaks down the stigma, too, because we can have discussions around it. It also gives people who are experiencing this a chance to see they are not alone and can seek help.” - Lauren White, Social Work in Flossmoor, IL

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Photo as seen in The Mighty

Depression tells us things that are not true. One of the reasons we believe these lies is because we do not open up and talk enough about mental health. By talking about it, we realize how much help and hope is out there. Here are a few examples.

Lie 1: You are worthless. During tough moments, your depression is telling you this is true. But it's not. If you take a step back and think about all of the people in your life who notice and care about you such as a family member, friend, pet, or even that stranger you held the door open for, you will begin to understand how much meaning you have.

Lie 2: You are unlovable or unlikeable. Depression makes you feel lonely. But that doesn't mean you are unloved. If depression is making you feel this way, try and think back on all of the good things you have done for other people. You will then start to see how good a person you are. Your depression doesn't define you.

Lie 3: No one knows how you feel, no one has problems like you and no one could understand. The isolation that depression can bring upon you can be scary. But it's so important to realize that you are not alone. So many people, from children to adults, understand what it feels like to be depressed. Sharing these feelings with anyone around you that you can trust is the first step to recovery.

Lie 4: It’ll never get better; you will always feel this way. While your depression may not disappear overnight, it will not last forever, especially if you ask for help. Something that I came across the other day was that even during your darkest day, you don't really want to end your life. What you want to end is the pain you feel. With this mindset, you have the opportunity to change the way you think and feel about the world. Statements written by The Mighty. See the full article here.

“Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt the effects of anxiety.”

RESOURCES & TOOLS Child Mind Institute: Anxiety Symptom Checker

ANGST IN THE NEWS New Jersey Herald: Lafayette School to screen film about anxiety issues

"The film really gives a sense of hope because anxiety is a treatable condition. It's so treatable, but the first step is talking about it." - Jennifer Cenatiempo, Superintendent in Lafayette, NJ

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Photo as seen on borislhensonfoundation.org On Saturday, actress Taraji P. Henson launched her new foundation the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, which is meant to raise awareness and provide support for mental health in the black community. She said, “I named the organization after my father because of his complete and unconditional love for me; his unabashed, unashamed ability to tell the truth, even if it hurt; and his strength to push through his own battles with mental health issues." The goals of the foundation are to offer support to students in urban schools, increase the number of black mental health professionals by offering scholarships for college students pursuing that field, and decrease the rate at which individuals go back to prison by offering mental health support after they are released. In a statement about the foundation, Henson said, “BLHF is breaking the silence by speaking out and encouraging others to share their challenges with mental illness and get the help they need. African-Americans have regarded such communication as a sign of weakness and our vision is to change that perception… Together, we will break the silence and break the cycle.” Read the rest of the article in The Mighty here. To read more about the foundation, go here.

Angst at Fox Theatre

RESOURCES & TOOLS Better Help: 9 Visualization Techniques For Stress Reduction

ANGST IN THE NEWS The Red & Black: Altering anxiety - Documentary ‘Angst’ explores how to combat anxiety students face

"This is our legacy. This is our chance to make a difference. Together, we will break the silence and break the cycle!" -Taraji P. Henson

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more

Photo as seen in CNN One Atlanta call center gets 800-1000 calls every day. Sometimes we don't think about the people whose job it is to help talk someone out of suicide. For this particular call center in Atlanta GA, the state pays the employees. But most call centers are staffed by volunteers. The article talks about how there is usually an increase in calls when a celebrity or public figure takes their own life. Most of the calls are from adults but even elementary children will call sometimes. The crisis line can also be used to ask for help for a family member or friend who is suicidal or even struggles with anxiety or substance abuse. The employees are encouraged to discuss the particularly difficult calls with each other. There is a Zen room when they need a break, especially because their own mental health can be severely challenged. One employee at the Atlanta call center says to a caller, "Remember, we're here, so if things get worse for you, you can call back, OK?" Remember to take a moment and check in with yourself, a family member, or a friend and remember to think about the people who dedicate their lives to helping others save their own. Read the full article on CNN here. 

Angst screening at HPE Houston

RESOURCES & TOOLS Crisis Text Line: Text 741741 from anywhere in the USA to text with a trained Crisis Counselor.

ANGST IN THE NEWS Mashable: How one newspaper is helping kids during a teen suicide epidemic

"Every day may not be good, but there's something good in every day." -Unknown

Find Angst screenings: Events in your community

Host a screening: Click here to learn more