By: Jodi Daly, Ph.D., President and CEO
As we leave pandemic year 2020 behind, I reflect on the threat the virus created in our communities – destabilizing our health and economic wellbeing while highlighting the disparities suffered by communities of color and women. Each day, our community faced significant challenges and barriers to our businesses, school systems, healthcare structures, and our overall social fabric. I also reflect, and choose to revel, in the observance of the strong sprit of stewardship and generosity I have seen exhibited by community members and leaders. Across the country, community service organizations received record-breaking donations. Innovations have assisted organizations and communities in making system improvements to better serve those in need. As you can see, I am a “the glass is half full” person.
Did you know… that there are about 14 different holidays celebrated between November and January—all with beautiful meanings and traditions from special foods and drinks, to games, gifts, rituals and activities? Each holiday has an important message, an element of miracles or magic, and a theme of hope and wonder. Wonder for the things that have happened, and hope for the New Year and oncoming seasons.
Over the holidays, I challenge you to think of what your “hopes” are for the upcoming year and how you can make that hope come to fruition. Additionally, I encourage you to celebrate in a manner that protects your family’s and our community’s health and wellbeing, and I urge you to observe the holidays in a way that will benefit your mental health. Start by giving yourself grace. Along with great feelings of joy this year, there are also profound feelings of grief, and both are entirely valid given all we have been through this year. Give yourself room to feel and act, as you need. For example, set boundaries on negative influences; connect and share with close family or friends, and do not be afraid to ask for help. As always, Comprehensive Healthcare is here for you.
I would be remiss if I did not mention that I am very proud of our staff at Comprehensive Healthcare for being among those who have chosen to serve others each day. They have faced this pandemic head-on, doing what was necessary to continue to deliver essential services while keeping each other safe. Our staff rise to the challenges they face with compassion, resilience, innovation, and fortitude. Their mission is clear; to develop healthy, vibrant communities. As behavioral healthcare providers, we hold space in our hearts for all of our clients, as well as our community—and this year especially so.
My hope for your holiday this year is to discover that negative feelings are temporary. Yes, sometimes we have to do the hard work to move through our emotions, but the effort is worth it and the emotions will pass. My wish for you this year is that you experience the wonder that the holidays bring through bright and joyful moments of love and laughter, and hope.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, and all of us at Comprehensive Healthcare, I wish you all happy holidays!
