(Entertainment-NewsWire.com, November 15, 2012 ) Dothan, AL -- The onset of winter and fewer daylight hours can increase depression in many people, especially those already prone to depression due to disabilities. Depression can often be overcome by focusing on other things than one’s immediate surroundings, such as going to a restaurant for a nice dinner, attending a comedy movie or visiting friends. However, many people who have disabilities also have a very low income which means costly entertainment is out of the budget.
That is where the YMCA can provide huge benefits. The Y, as it is now known, was developed out of a need to provide escape and safety for young men living in the mid 1800’s in the tenements and squalor London. Today the organization provides services for the entire family and reaches over 10,000 neighborhoods.
Although known for providing sports opportunities for youth, the Y is much more than a sports complex. Each center has a community focus and strives to better the world by providing education and health improvement opportunities for all people of all ages and abilities. Many Y’s hold low impact related classes which can provide entertainment and friendship opportunities for those with reduced mobility. In addition, the Y also provides daycare services while the parent is attending a Y class.
People with budget limitations can apply for assistance with paying the membership and some children may even have membership provided for free. Membership fees are due monthly to further help in budgeting.
There is no need to sit around the house this winter! Interested persons may visit the Y’s website at www.ymca.net and find a center close to their home.