‘Just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the struggles of the clients and professionals at Valley Mental Health. Last week they announced that they will be laying off over 100 employees and closing some of its programs. The staff at VMH work very, very hard to make a difference in the lives of those entrusted into their care. The work can be very challenging and the pay is poor but these dedicated professionals do it because they care. Now over 100 of my professional breathren will join the ranks of the unemployed. As I write this, I send my sincerest good wishes and hope that this transition will lead them to a new, and even brighter future.
To the clients of VMH: I hope you will continue to reach out for the hand they offer. It may not look the way it has in the past, but the helping hand is still there. As Valley goes through this transition, it might be tempting to stay home, to isolate. You know where that road goes. Reach out to your peers, family and friends ESPECIALLY if you do not feel like it. Please remember the great lesson of Viktor Frankl: you can always, always, always CHOOSE your own attitude. If you are in crisis call 9-1-1, Valley’s crisis line (801-261-1442, the national suicide hotline 800-SUICIDE (or 800-784-2433) or 800-273-TALK (or 800-273-8255). You may also find the support groups section of this website helpful.
Are you Happy? Is your answer “yes” or “no”? Are those are only choices? It is a matter of black or white, all or nothing? Or is Happiness on a continuum? Think about what went into your answer. Did you say you were happy or unhappy based on something that just happened or your overall mood? Did you take into account your looks, wealth or social status? Do you know what will make you happy in the future? When asked people at work if they were happy, most indicate that they cannot wait until the 5 o’clock whistle blows or the weekend finally arrives. Studies, however, have proven that most people are actually happier at work, where they are productive than at home idly watching the tube. What a concept! If we are striving after what we THINK will make us happy but the prize does not satiate our thirst for Happiness, then what ARE we to do? Happiness 101 will help you to appropriately identify those things that actually bring you happiness and help you to become happier. Join us, Monday, November 2nd at 7pm. The class is frown. You have nothing to lose but your frown. Look at Upcoming Events on this website or call 801-262-0317 for recorded information.
The largest class ever attended at Harvard is the class about Happiness. Here in Salt Lake City, Happiness 101 is currently being offered FREE of charge! This will be the last semester the class will be free. To accommodate your schedule, we have moved the class to Mondays at 7pm. As the teacher of Happiness 101, I continue to research and learn that I may bring you the latest and keep the material fresh. Subsequently, the class will use new scientifically proven and research based methods, sure to attract both new and recurrent students alike.
