inspirational author | Author · Speaker

In the light of Naomi Judd’s recent tragic suicide and struggle with debilitating depression for much of her life, I wanted to take a moment and reflect on this very serious issue.

Many of you have read my book, Rainbow in the Night: A Journey of Redemption. I shared my own struggles with depression for much of my childhood and even episodic depression as an adult.

My father was a psychiatrist and administrator of a very large state mental hospital from 1958-1978. (A picture of the hospital is in this blog post.) I remember when we first arrived, his first administrative decision was to bring dignity to the mentally ill. In those days there was terrible stigma attached to mental illness. He made “Who Was Who in America” for the amazing transformation of this hospital during his tenure.

To his credit, the hospital is one of the few state hospitals still open today. He always used to say, “But for the grace of God, go I.” I learned never to judge people suffering with mental illness and followed in his footsteps by getting my Masters Degree in Social Work in 1993.

I want to encourage anyone who is trying to hide depression to get help, and for the rest of us to keep our eyes and ears open and gently encourage those we know and love who are suffering to get help. There are many wonderful treatments today and much hope for a productive and fulfilling life.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

Here for you,

Life Coach Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS

JaneGoldieWinn.com

More of Goldie’s Nuggets HERE

For an encouraging read, RAINBOW IN THE NIGHT: A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle.

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!

Grief and Loss

There are so many people who have lost a loved one recently. It’s important to remember when going through the grieving process that it is not necessarily linear.

There are five stages according to the Kubler Ross theory:

Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Acceptance.

It is common to go in and out of the various stages in no special order. It is important to fully embrace whatever stage and feelings you are experiencing. In time, they will lessen.

I like to suggest that you look at the ocean and watch the waves. Each wave of sadness is followed by a wave of healing. In time, the waves lessen, and the intense emotions soften.

It is important to remember the goal of grief and loss is never to forget your loved one but to remember them in a healing way through your memories and special moments you shared together.

This side of Heaven, our grieving will always be incomplete. It is important to keep an eternal perspective.

I leave you with this Scripture: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 (NIV) Don’t forget to pray!

Here for you,

Life Coach Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS

More of Goldie’s Nuggets HERE

FIND OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH GOLDIE’S UPCOMING MOVIE! Rainbow in the Night: Goldie’s Journey of Redemption CLICK HERE!

For an encouraging read, RAINBOW IN THE NIGHT: A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle.

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!

Stress Management

Everyone has to cope with stress on a daily basis. But we can keep it in check so that it does not turn into “distress” by identifying why we are feeling stressed and then finding healthy ways to cope with it.

Here are a few of Goldie’s “stress busters:”

Stay present-focused, and take it one day at a time. Live each day fully, and enjoy the gift of the present moments.
Get consistent exercise with a variety of activities to keep you motivated: walking, swimming, Zumba or dance, sports, weightlifting, Pickleball, etc. (3-5 times weekly for at least a 30-minute duration).
Maintain healthy eating habits: Lower refined sugar and carb intake, use portion control, drink coffee and alcohol in moderation.
Engage in “life giving” activities. Examples: walks in nature, watching comedy, learn a new hobby or craft, try a musical instrument, and find your “happy place” and make sure you visit as often as you can.
Stay away from negative input: watch the news in small doses and not before bedtime, socialize with positive people, and stop using electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime to improve your sleep.

I leave you with this Scripture:

“But seek you first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:33-34 (NIV)

Don’t forget to pray!

Here for you…

Life Coach Goldie Winn, MSS

More of Goldie’s Nuggets HERE

FIND OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH GOLDIE’S UPCOMING MOVIE! Rainbow in the Night: Goldie’s Journey of Redemption CLICK HERE!

For an encouraging read, RAINBOW IN THE NIGHT: A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle.

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!

Tender Feelings

Are you personally suffering a recent pregnancy loss or know someone who has? During the holiday season the sadness can be overwhelming when it is supposed to be a joyous season. You may have had a recent miscarriage, perhaps you’re hurting after an abortion, or having difficulty getting pregnant.

If you haven’t experienced this type of loss, you may want to be sensitive to someone you know who has and needs extra encouragement and love. All the tender feelings are exacerbated during the holidays especially when families gather together to celebrate. It’s hard to join in when the pain and sorrow is palpable.

Sometimes just acknowledging the loss can be the first step towards healing and letting others share in your grief.

A comforting Scripture to bring some hope: “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” Psalm 32:7

I hope this “golden nugget” encourages you today.

Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS
Certified Life Coach

More of Goldie’s Nuggets HERE

For an encouraging read, RAINBOW IN THE NIGHT: A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle.

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!

Bear One Another’s Burdens

Are you personally suffering a loss or know someone who has recently lost someone very dear?

Holidays can be very sad and stressful when loved ones are no longer with us. As we navigate the holiday season we all need to be aware of those around us who are hurting. Consider reaching out with an encouraging call, card, or offer to meet for coffee. Sometimes knowing someone else cares makes all the difference and lessens the pain just a little.

We are called in Scripture to “bear one another’s burdens.” Families are used to gathering together during the holidays, and when there is that empty seat at the table, it can be very lonely as the grief and loss is much more apparent during the holidays.

I particularly like this Scripture that says it best:

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 NIV

I hope this “golden nugget” encourages you today!

Life Coach Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS

More of Goldie’s Nuggets HERE

For an encouraging read, RAINBOW IN THE NIGHT: A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle.

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!