The way we feel or think shows in our body. A series of wellness services are available to provide education, coaching, support and assistance to make small changes in your life that lead to big improvements in the way that you feel.

The wellnessnow! program offers holistic alternatives that extend beyond the traditional mental health related therapies - recognizing the link between emotional and physical well-being. The program, offered by Jefferson Center for Mental Health, builds on each individual's strengths and interests.

"Mental health and physical health are closely related," said Jane Harris, Jefferson Center Wellness Director. "Our bodies respond to how we think, feel, and act. When we are stressed, anxious or upset, our body responds and tries to tell us that something isn't right and to change course. We know that making a lifestyle change can be difficult, so we have developed a program where you set your goals and design your own wellness plan with the help of our experts."

For example, finances and communications are two of the most common and disruptive sources of stress. People can reduce their stress and improve their health if they learn how new skills that can help them manage these situations in healthy ways. Two wellness classes will address these topics:

Household Budgeting for Everyone, Wednesday, February 20, 6:00 -7:45 p.m.

Presented by Maribeth Flanagan, LPC. Whether you want to pay down your debts, begin saving or figure out how to make ends meet, this class can help. Please bring a list of monthly expenses and income. Math skills not required.

Effective Communication, Wednesday, March 19, 6:00 - 7:45 p.m.

Presented by Maribeth Flanagan, LPC. Conflict is virtually inevitable in life. How conflict is handled, however, can bring people together or tear them apart. This class will help you learn how to communicate your needs in a proactive manner, and to solve problems as they arise rather than shutting down or exploding.

"It's important to acknowledge mental health as vital to our wellbeing, as individuals and for our community overall," said Harriet Hall, Ph.D., President and CEO of Jefferson Center. "It's also important to recognize the relationship between our mental and physical health and how important it is for the Center to become more proactive in offering overall wellness services."

A variety of wellness and prevention services focus on resilience and renewed hope. It helps each client identify workable goals and realistic action plans, while identifying obstacles in advance so they don't become roadblocks to success. The program teaches new skills, while providing information and tips on healthy living. Classes take place at Wellness on Wadsworth, 4045 Wadsworth, Suite 70 (lower level), in Wheat Ridge. The classes are $10 (Jefferson Center members free). Childcare is provided. To register call 303-432-5032.

Celebrating its 50th year, Jefferson Center for Mental Health serves individuals and families who are impacted by mental illness in Jefferson, Gilpin and Clear Creek Counties.The Center provides comprehensive, community-based mental health services to more than 6,000 people each year.

Jefferson Center serves the people throughout its three-county area with 300 staff in 20 locations as well as in numerous community settings such as schools, nursing homes, senior centers and other partner locations.

It offers a variety of programs including: outpatient counseling, vocational services, and employee assistance programs. The Center provides mental health services and hope to people of all ages.

It fosters recovery and resilience for individuals who have mental health problems, promoting a better quality of life and a healthy community. Its staff has expertise in numerous areas, including children and family issues, adults with serious mental illness, suicide prevention, early intervention, juvenile justice, and trauma treatment. For more information, visit www.jcmh.org.