Coping with the Holiday Blues

Words by Lifestyle Staff

This time of year can be stressful and emotionally challenging for many, taking a toll on mental health. Follow these tips to help raise awareness and support mental well being during the holiday season.

EDUCATE YOURSELF AND OTHERS

Learn about common mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) to better understand the challenges people may face.

DESTIGMATIZE MENTAL HEALTH

Encourage open and non-judgmental conversations about mental health. Let people know that it's okay to seek help and talk about their feelings. Checking in with others about their mental health can be simple—connect with someone to help them feel supported and less isolated.

SHARE RESOURCES

Share information about local mental health resources; crisis hotlines including 988, a 24/7 crisis hotline providing free and confidential support via call, text, or chat; and support groups. Let people know where they can turn if they need help. A great local resource is the Visalia Wellness Center. They offer a wide range of resiliency -focused services, including group sessions, gardening, and cooking classes.

REDUCE FINANCIAL STRESS

Suggest budget-friendly gift exchanges or alternatives to gift-giving that can help alleviate financial strain.

OFFER SUPPORT WITHOUT PRESSURE

Let your loved ones know you're there to support them, but avoid pushing them to participate in holiday events if they're not feeling up to it.

CHECK-IN REGULARLY

Reach out to friends and family with a simple text or call to check in on how they're doing, especially if you know they're going through a challenging time.

PROMOTE VOLUNTEERING

Encourage volunteering or acts of kindness as they can boost one's own mental health and create a sense of purpose during the holiday season.

LEAD BY EXAMPLE

Be mindful of your own mental health and set an example by seeking help or talking about your feelings when needed. This can reduce the stigma around mental health issues.

ADVOCATE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Support mental health advocacy organizations and initiatives in your community. Attend or organize events that raise awareness.

KNOW WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP

If you or someone you know is struggling with severe mental health issues, encourage seeking professional help. Mental health professionals can provide guidance and support. The CalHOPE warm line is a resource that can connect you to a peer counselor who has persevered through struggles with stress, anxiety, depression, and emotions triggered by everyday situations and stress. Call 1-833-317-HOPE (4673) for help.

By following these tips and fostering a supportive and understanding environment, you can contribute to greater mental health awareness and help make the holiday season a more positive and inclusive time for everyone.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Depression: Feelings of severe despondency and dejection

Anxiety: Intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations

Seasonal Affective Disorder: A type of depression that has a seasonal pattern. Also known as SAD.

Brought to you by Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency