The holiday season is behind us, which for many is an uplifting time.

But as we turn the page on a new year, the cold and shorter days wear on many as well. Tony Kirkman is the Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center and indicates that it is often a perfect storm for many people, as this time of the year prevents the necessary habits of good mental health.

Kirkman encourages finding organizations or activities in your community that are not only going to keep you physically engaged and moving, but also socially engaged. Additionally, practicing gratitude is a great way to ward off those winter blues.

According to Kirkman, the news of the day can often get a person down, as we are exposed to the tragedies of the world in real time. He indicates it can leave a helpless feeling, knowing there are bad things happening and there is not much we can do about it.

Kirkman also warns against getting caught in the trap of playing the comparison game when on social media. He reminds, you are seeing everyone's highlight reels and oftentimes not the many things that challenge them throughout the day.