Conscious By Us, LLC.

Friday Feels "And I think the way to overcome our mental health, is we've got to educate our younger ones, this medicine is here [spiritual and cultural connection and practice] and it's still there and it is the strongest one we can have ..." - Unknown Indigenous Source In a world that often feels disconnected, the wisdom of indigenous cultures offers a powerful remedy. By preserving and sharing indigenous knowledge, practices, and perspectives, we can promote mental health and wellbeing for all. Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion isn't just about fairness—it's about recognizing the rich tapestry of human experience and the profound lessons it holds. When we honor and integrate diverse cultural practices, we create a more connected and compassionate world. Indigenous teachings remind us that true healing comes from a deep spiritual and cultural connection. This "medicine" is not only ancient but also incredibly relevant today. By educating our younger generations about these practices, we ensure that this invaluable wisdom continues to thrive. Reflect on your own relationship with diversity, mental health, and cultural practices. How can you incorporate these teachings into your life? How can you support the preservation of indigenous knowledge? Let's build a future where every voice is heard and every culture is celebrated. Source: https://lnkd.in/dZGnMNtp At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #MentalHealth #IndigenousWisdom #DiversityEquityInclusion #CulturalConnection #Wellbeing #SpiritualHealing #Community #Inspiration #Education #PreserveIndigenousKnowledge Join the conversation and share your thoughts below!

Thursday Tea Did you know there's a global movement challenging the way we think about psychology? 🌍🧠 It's called Indigenous Psychology (IP) • It questions the dominance of Western theories in psychology • It empowers non-Western cultures to use their own knowledge • It makes sure psychology reflects diverse cultural values • It uses local wisdom to develop better global practices Isn't it exciting to imagine the field of psychology becoming more inclusive and culturally aware? What are your thoughts on this movement? Have you experienced or observed the impact of Western-centric psychology in your life or work? Join the discussion below! Let's learn from each other and explore how we can make psychology more relevant for everyone. 👇💬 Sources/read more: www.indigenouspsych.org https://lnkd.in/e2fvjRcv At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #ThursdayTea #IndigenousPsychology #CulturalCompetence #GlobalPsychology #HealthEquity #ConsciousByUs #PsychologicalDiversity #Empowerment #CulturalAwareness #ConsciousByUs

Woke Wednesday Did you know? Indigenous cultures often approach wellness through a different lens than Western medicine. Western medicine frequently focuses on treating individuals. Imagine Maslow's hierarchy or pyramid of needs and how it is conceptualized as an individual journey. In contrast in many Indigenous cultures, relationships are at the heart of well-being. This may mean maintaining relationships with the Creator, oneself, community, and nature for true self-care and wellness. While Western thinking puts self-actualization at the top or as the goal of the pyramid or hierarchy. Indigenous views might place spirituality and community connections at the core of wellness. Think of it more as a circle vs pyramid. This foundationally different approach to wellness highlights the importance of decolonizing healthcare. Collaborating with patients and communities so that everyone has access to impactful supportive care What are your thoughts? We'd love to hear them in the comments. At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #WokeWednesday #ConsciousByUs #Wellness #IndigenousWellness #HealthAwareness #CulturalPerspectives

Tuesday Talk Indigenous communities worldwide face significant overlooked mental health challenges. Recent studies have shown Indigenous adults experience higher rates of the following highlighting a critical need for awareness and action: ➡PTSD: Indigenous peoples often endure historical and contemporary traumas that contribute to high PTSD rates. ➡Depression: Cultural disconnection and loss of identity exacerbate feelings of hopelessness. ➡Suicide: Alarmingly high suicide rates among Indigenous youth and adults call for urgent intervention. ➡Substance Use Disorders: Substance abuse is frequently a coping mechanism for underlying trauma and socio-economic stressors. Contributing Factors: ➡Historical Trauma: Centuries of colonization, forced assimilation, and systemic oppression have left deep psychological scars. ➡Cultural Disruption: Loss of language, traditions, and connection to land disrupts community cohesion and individual identity. ➡Discrimination: Ongoing racism and stigma contribute to feelings of isolation and hopelessness. ➡Socioeconomic Challenges: Lower income, education, and employment opportunities create a cycle of poverty that exacerbates mental health issues. ➡Health Inequities: Limited access to culturally safe and effective mental health care further marginalizes Indigenous populations. Better understanding is crucial for promoting the well-being and equity of Indigenous populations globally. Get Involved! ➡Educate Yourself: Learn about the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities. ➡Advocate for Change: Support policies that promote equitable access to mental health services. ➡Engage with Indigenous Voices: Listen to and amplify the perspectives of Indigenous peoples in discussions about their health and well-being. We can create a future where mental health is prioritized, and all communities thrive.❤️ At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z Join the conversation! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. #IndigenousHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #CulturalEquity #HistoricalTrauma #SocialJustice #Wellbeing #Advocacy #communityhealing

Monday Motivators We are thrilled to spotlight Onawa Miller, a passionate coach at @Abound Health & Wholeness Services, LLC, and an inspiring speaker at the World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference 2024! Specializing in the 8 Dimensions of Wellness, Onawa empowers her clients to reclaim their health through a compassionate, holistic approach. With a rich background in nutrition, exercise science, and mental health, she combines her extensive academic knowledge from institutions like Virginia Tech and Arizona State University with her personal journey as a survivor of childhood trauma and chronic illness. We love Onawa’s coaching philosophy, which is grounded in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can address emotional pain and develop personalized strategies for optimal well-being. Methods like this that focus on empowerment, and encouraging individuals to take control of their health and live their lives to the fullest are such a key part of wellness. Join us in celebrating Onawa’s dedication to transforming lives and promoting wellness! Let’s support her mission to help others thrive in mind, body, and spirit. Learn more about her work and services at Abound Health & Wholeness Services, LLC. Source: https://lnkd.in/eBpADU-J At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We love sharing stories of positivity and highlighting individuals and organizations doing the work. We are all about community, collaboration, and camaraderie, not competition! We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #Wellness #MentalHealth #TraumaRecovery #Coaching #Empowerment #IndigenousHealth #8Dimensions #AboundHealth #OnawaMiller #WorldIndigenousSuicidePreventionConference2024 🌟

Friday Feels Today's Quote “There’s more to SAD than changing seasons. SAD is a real form of depression that can seriously impact a sufferer. Moods associated with SAD can be so dark that the person starts missing work, withdraws from people, and in rare cases, contemplates suicide.” — Laura L. Smith, Ph.D. & Charles H. Elliott, Ph.D. As the seasons gear up to change, it's essential to recognize the signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Symptoms can include: ➡ Persistent sadness or low mood ➡Fatigue or lack of energy ➡Difficulty concentrating ➡Withdrawal from social activities ➡Changes in sleep patterns or appetite If you notice these signs, here are some ways to offer support: 🗣️Start a Conversation: Approach with empathy and let them know you’re there to listen without judgment. ☀️Encourage Light Exposure: Suggest taking breaks outside during daylight hours or using light therapy lamps in the office. 📣Promote Wellness Initiatives: Advocate for mental health resources, such as counseling services or wellness programs, within your workplace. 🫂Be Understanding: Recognize that SAD can affect productivity; offer flexibility when possible. ⚠ Remember If You or Someone You Know is in Crisis and Needs Immediate Help (U.S.) 💠 Call 911 for emergency services. 💠Go to the nearest hospital emergency room. 💠Call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. By creating supportive communities both professionally and personally, we can address SAD and promote overall mental well-being. Remember, a small gesture can make a significant difference! At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #MentalHealthAwareness #SAD #SupportYourCoworkers #WellnessInTheWorkplace #FridayFeels #SeasonalAffectiveDisorder #LauraLSmith #CharlesHElliott #ConsciousByUs #MentalHealthAwareness #WellBeing

Thursday Tea DID YOU KNOW? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression associated with seasonal variations. It is most common in the fall and winter but also occurs in warmer months. SAD prevalence varies across different groups, but it impacts about 5% of U.S. adults. This might be higher among women, who are more likely to report symptoms of depression related to seasonal changes. Research also indicates that younger individuals are at a higher risk of developing SAD. The exact cause of SAD is unknown, but reduced sunlight in winter, disruption of the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm), and serotonin level drops, which affect mood, are believed to play a role. Symptoms include low energy, hypersomnia, overeating, weight gain, and craving for carbohydrates. SAD can also cause feelings of hopelessness, irritability, and social withdrawal. The higher prevalence of SAD among women and younger individuals suggests that targeted interventions are needed. Awareness of these demographic differences can inform public health strategies, ensuring that mental health resources and treatments are accessible and tailored to those most affected. Disparities in the prevalence of SAD underscore the importance of addressing mental health issues through a health equity lens. If we can better recognize who is at risk, we can better allocate resources, develop targeted outreach programs, and create supportive environments that promote mental well-being. Source: Seasonal Affective Disorder - National Institute of Mental Health and American Psychiatric Association At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #ThursdayTea #SAD #MentalHealth #SeasonalDepression #HealthAwareness #ConsciousByUs #MentalWellness

Woke Wednesday Understanding SAD Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, typically in the fall and winter. Here are some key factors that contribute to SAD: •Melatonin Levels: Reduced sunlight can affect the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and mood. Increased melatonin levels can lead to feelings of lethargy and sleepiness.
 •Serotonin Levels: A drop in serotonin, triggered by less sunlight, can lead to feelings of depression. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that affects mood, appetite, and sleep, and its reduction can significantly impact emotional well-being.
 •Biological Clock: Less sunlight in fall and winter can disrupt your body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, which helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and mood. Disruption in this clock can lead to symptoms of SAD, such as difficulty waking up in the morning, oversleeping, and low energy levels.
 Understanding these causes can help in recognizing and managing SAD. Treatments can include light therapy, medication, and psychotherapy, all aimed at addressing these underlying factors. Source: Mayo Clinic - Seasonal Affective Disorder At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #WokeWednesday #SeasonalAffectiveDisorder #SAD #MentalHealth #ConsciousByUs #Melatonin #Serotonin #BiologicalClock

Tuesday Talk Summer's SAD Reality Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during summer is essential for mental well-being: •4% to 6% of adults in the US experience SAD, mostly at the end of summer. •10% of these cases occur at the beginning of summer. What is Summer SAD? Seasonal Affective Disorder is commonly associated with winter, but for some, summer brings its own challenges. Summer SAD can manifest as heightened anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood swings, often triggered by increased heat, longer days, and disruptions to routine. Recognizing the Signs •Persistent sadness or anxiety •Loss of interest in usual activities •Changes in sleep patterns •Irritability or agitation •Difficulty concentrating Source: https://lnkd.in/gVcKjTj At Conscious by Us, we're all about inspiring positive change around health, wellness, and health equity. We support individuals and organizations on their DEI learning journey through our speaking engagements, coaching sessions, consulting, and resources. You can learn more about our services at https://lnkd.in/eiU83G2z #TuesdayTalk #SummerSAD #MentalHealth #ConsciousByUs