🌷🚓 Episode 21: "Spring Sprints & Mental Health Insights" 🌼🧠

🌷🚓 Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Podcast - Episode 21: "Spring Sprints & Mental Health Insights" 🌼🧠

Release Date: May 14, 2024

Embracing Spring with Vital Updates and Engaging Conversations:

As the spring season unfolds its vibrant hues across Montgomery County, this episode brings a mix of celebration, awareness, and community engagement. Dive into recent events, significant law enforcement activities, and a special focus on mental health with our esteemed guest from the public health department.

🔄 Recent Happenings:

• Mother's Day Celebrations: Extending warm wishes to all moms in our community. Mother's Day Post
• National Police Week: Honoring the bravery and dedication of our officers. Police Week Tribute
• Swift Water Training: Showcasing our readiness for water-related emergencies. Training Video
• Motorcycle Safety Awareness: Promoting safe riding practices throughout the month. Awareness Post
• Major Arrests & Community Efforts: From school incidents to tackling welfare fraud, our team is continuously working to ensure safety. Amsterdam High School Incident, Gun Arrest, Welfare Fraud
• Community and Safety Events: From a basketball fundraiser to Cub Scout bike safety, our engagement spans all ages and interests. Basketball Fundraiser

🎙️ Special Guest: Sara Boerenko, LCSW, Director of Public Health

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, Sara Boerenko provides a comprehensive look at the challenges of anxiety and panic, especially relevant for first responders and the broader community. Her expertise highlights the importance of addressing mental health proactively:

• Understanding Anxiety & Panic: Sara explains that anxiety is an irrational, constant fear often not based in reality. It can be triggered by various factors, including new experiences, community fears, natural disasters, or pandemics. The symptoms can be multifaceted:

  • Physical Symptoms: These can include an increased heart rate, lightheadedness, feeling cold or tight, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal issues.
  • Behavioral Changes: Observations might include altered eating and sleeping patterns, changes in social habits, and more.
  • Mental Impact: Anxiety can cause confusion, racing thoughts, and an overwhelming sense of dread.

• Coping with Anxiety and Panic: Sara stresses that most anxiety and panic episodes last between 3-12 minutes, though they may feel much longer. After such events, individuals might experience an "emotional hangover" or excess energy. To manage these feelings, Sara provides several strategies:

  • Identify Emotions: Acknowledging feelings by naming them aloud, such as saying "I am mad" or "I am scared," helps in recognizing and addressing the emotional state.
  • Create Safe Spaces: Establishing environments where individuals can relax and be themselves is crucial. This might involve distancing from stressful scenarios or people to facilitate open and supportive conversations.
  • Refocus: Engaging in activities like journaling, showering, or singing can help individuals refocus and regain a sense of normalcy. These habits serve as grounding mechanisms during stressful times.
  • Listen Actively: Providing a listening ear without judgment allows people to express themselves fully. Sometimes, offering a quiet space for reflection is equally beneficial.

Sara's approach emphasizes the need for holistic care and community support to effectively manage mental health challenges and ensure the well-being of all individuals, particularly those in high-stress roles like first responders.

• Local Resources: Encouraging community members to seek help through the Health Department (518-842-9111) and the National Suicide Text Number (988).

📅 Upcoming Community Events:

• Amsterdam Spring Fling & Mohawk Valley Polish Fest: Both on May 18, offering vibrant cultural experiences.
• 3rd Annual Craft Fair in Palatine Bridge: A local showcase of creativity.
• Memorial Day Parades & Events: From Tribes Hill to Charleston, join us in honoring our heroes across various towns on May 26 and 27.
• Fraud Seminar: May 30, an educational opportunity to safeguard against scams. Learn More

Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Your Safety Partner: Our commitment to community safety, mental health, and vibrant local events continues to drive our efforts in making Montgomery County a safer and more connected place.

• Stay Updated: Download Our App for real-time alerts and information.
• Emergency Assistance: Dial 911 for immediate help.
• General Support: Contact us at (518) 853-5500 for non-emergency concerns.