Virginians who hope to receive federal assistance to help pay for damage caused by Hurricane Helene have only a few hours to complete their applications. Today is the last day eligible applicants in southwest Virginia can turn in their paperwork for FEMA assistance. Disaster recovery centers are open in Independence, Damascus, Marion and Wytheville for those who need help with their applications. Information on the application process is also available online at Disaster-Assistance-dot-gov.
December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month and many Virginians can relate as the days keep getting shorter through the winter solstice. Around five percent of American adults suffer some form of seasonal depression. Symptoms can include a decrease in energy, sleeping too much or changes to appetite. While it's often thought about as a winter condition, it can also affect people in other seasons as changes in nature affect moods.