mental health awareness

The City of Montgomery is urging residents to prioritize peace and compassion during the holiday season. Officials report that, historically, this time of year sees an increase in violence, particularly between individuals who know each other. These conflicts, which might otherwise be resolved peacefully, too often escalate into violence, with sometimes tragic and deadly consequences.

The holiday season often brings a festive time full of cheer and warmth. But for some Alabamians, this can be a time of grief. Significant losses such as the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss or major life changes could all be factors.

The University of Alabama and Auburn University will face off on Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday for the annual Iron Bowl. As the football programs prepare to meet on the gridiron, a group of student veterans from both universities will come together to bring awareness to veteran suicides.

Alabamians are being offered support and resources for mental health as winter moves in and days grow shorter, and the temperatures drop. Seasonal affective disorder symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer.

The end to daylight saving time (DST) for the 2024 year is upon us. Clocks in most parts of the U.S. did the annual "fall back" routine by one hour in the early morning of Sunday, Nov. 3. Health experts say the fall change should be easier to adjust to, but some might experience some trouble.

October is Emotional Wellness Month. This is a great time to take stock of the stress in our lives, to figure out how that stress is affecting us, and to seek ways to not only lower our stress level, but to more effectively manage it.

Last week on StoryCorps, we met Ray Nicholson and Alvin Lovett as they discussed a teacher who impacted their lives. This week, we hear how the Vietnam war impacted the people in their community.

Today at StoryCorps, Kelly Finley interviews her friend Dale Pfeiffer about Driftwood housing, a non-profit he co-founded to combat chronic homelessness in Mobile. Dale’s story shows that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Note to listeners, suicidal thoughts are mentioned in this piece.

In last week’s segment of StoryCorps, siblings Jim and Bridget Mulroy discussed their childhood and the dynamic of growing up with multiple brothers and sisters. And in today’s episode, Jim talks about his substance abuse issues and how they’ve impacted his relationships.

The tradition of so-called springing forward and falling back may be taking a toll on some Alabamians. Research shows Daylight Saving Time has varied effects on people. Where there’s more daily sunlight during the spring, it can boost moods and energy, but health experts say the fall time change can leave some feeling more isolated.