The best way to avoid trouble with alcohol or drugs is simply not to use them. But many people do for a variety of reasons: stress relief, social anxiety or boredom. The quick lift may become a dangerous habit. Instead of easing anxiety or reducing stress, alcohol and drug use increases anxiety and becomes the stress. It affects your sleep, mind, mood and overall health.

There are other, healthier ways to relieve stress and anxiety, such as:

• Find a group of friends to socialize with who enjoy alcohol/drug free activities.
• Prioritize self care. Set time aside to do some of your favorite things.
• Practice mindfulness. There are many apps, like Headspace and Calm, to guide you through short meditations.
• Move and get outside. Run, walk, swim in the lake, ride a bike, join a gym. Just breathing the air in and out of your lungs is a benefit! Plus, the natural dopamine will lift your mood.
• Listen to music. Boot up your favorite playlist and sing along.
• Power down. Unplug or turn off your devices. Take a nap, take a bath, read a book.
• Stay healthy. Try a new healthy recipe or a new way to exercise.
• Try a new hobby or sport. Learn to cook a meal for your family - Mom will get a night off!
• Get creative! Do a craft or make something for someone you care about.
• Use positive affirmations to practice positive thinking to improve motivation and self-esteem.
• Connect with someone. Stay connected with texts, phone calls, and video chats.
• Encourage reading by setting a goal, keeping a book with you, creating a comfortable reading area, find a genre you/your children enjoy, and by visiting the library (it's free!).
• Reach out for help. If you or a loved one are struggling, you can find local resources by clicking here or call the SAMHSA Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

COVID-19 Vaccine Information

Benefits of getting vaccinated

Safety of COVID-19 vaccine

Side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine

It is also important that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine. The flu vaccine can:

• Keep you from getting sick with flu
• Reduce severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick
• Reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization
• Help protect pregnant people during and after pregnancy
• Protect the people around you

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at pharmacies and urgent care clinics in and around Vernon.

Easy Hummus

Broccoli & Cauliflower Gratin

Roasted Butternut Squash with Cider Vinaigrette

Wild Rice and Cider Cranberry Pilaf