Holidays can feel heavy: Finding support through the season

The holiday season arrives with expectations of joy and celebration, but for many, it brings stress, loneliness and emotional pain. If you're finding this season difficult, you're not alone — support is available.

The pressure to feel festive doesn't match everyone's reality. Financial strain, family tensions, grief over lost loved ones, and the contrast between societal expectations and personal struggles can make the holidays particularly challenging. For those managing depression, anxiety, or trauma, this season can intensify existing difficulties.

Tips to protect your mental health this season

• Set boundaries: You don't have to attend every gathering or fulfill every tradition. It's perfectly acceptable to decline invitations or leave events early when you need to.
• Stick to routines: Keep regular sleep schedules, eat balanced meal, and maintain physical activity. These anchors provide stability when everything feels chaotic.
• Manage expectations: Let go of perfectionism. The holidays don't have to look a certain way, and it's okay if your celebration is quieter or simpler than others'.
• Limit triggers: Reduce time on social media where curated posts fuel comparison. Minimize exposure to people or situations that drain your emotional energy.
• Practice self-care: Schedule time for activities that genuinely recharge you, whether that's reading, walking, or simply resting without guilt.
• Stay connected: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or support groups. Even a brief text or phone call can combat isolation.
• Give back: Volunteering or helping others can provide purpose and perspective during difficult times.
• Understand your resources: Know where to turn if you need immediate support.

988 Crisis Lifeline

If you are struggling or need immediate support, you can call or text 988, the national crisis helpline. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to provide free, confidential support and connect you to local resources. Visit 988lifeline.org to learn more.

Additional support through Connections

Mental health crises don't discriminate, and neither does our care. We believe that access to life-saving treatment should be universal, and that recovery is possible for everyone. If you're in Arizona, Pennsylvania, or Washington, Connections is available to provide services tailored to your needs, ensuring individuals have access to the support they deserve in their time of crisis.

Arizona:

• Connections Phoenix: 1201 South Ave., Unit 150, Phoenix, Arizona
• Connections Tucson: 2802 East District St., Tucson, Arizona

Pennsylvania:

• Connections Emergency Behavioral Health Crisis Walk-in Center: 1100 S. Cameron St., Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Washington:

• Connections Kirkland: 11410 NE 122nd Way, Kirkland, Washington

Not near a Connections center? Explore national resources to find support options in your area.

SOURCE:

Psychiatry.org - Seven Ways to Cope with Holiday Stress