As we approach the holiday season, it is important to remember that it is very common to feel added stress. Whether due to separation from loved ones, personal grief, the pressures of gift-giving, economic hardship, challenging interactions with family members, or shorter days, this time of year can bring unique behavioral health challenges.

Strategies for supporting your mental health:

  • Pay attention to your feelings
    Remember that it is okay to feel unhappy during the holidays. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them.
  • Develop a plan for when you are feeling stressed, sad, or lonely.
    This plan may include calling a friend or family member, walking, engaging in an activity that brings joy, or watching a favorite movie.
  • Practice self-care
    It is important to schedule time for yourself and activities that recharge your mind and body and prioritize necessities: eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of sleep, and finding time for exercise.
  • Connect with community
    If you can’t be near loved ones during the holidays, finding a supportive community through clubs, support groups, community centers, and faith communities can help reduce feelings of loneliness.
  • Support others
    During this time of year, grief and loss can be amplified. Check in on loved ones who may be alone or struggling – it can also improve your happiness and well-being.
  • Recognize seasonal mood changes.
    Seasonal Affective Disorder(SAD) is a condition in which people experience symptoms of depression triggered by the change in seasons. Treatment is effective and may include antidepressant medication and/or talk therapy.
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs.
    Having a plan for navigating social events can reduce the risk of substance use. it is also important to check in on those who may be struggling with substance use over the holidays.
  • Know when to seek help
    If you feel that your mental health struggles are becoming overwhelming and challenging to handle, it is important to seek help and know that treatment is available.

Below are free and confidential resources that can connect you with effective treatment and support.

You are not alone. Here’s how to seek help.

  • SAMHSA’s National Helpline— 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – A confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year information service in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
  • mentalhealth@anixter.org – Looking for mental health counseling, care or support, Anixter fosters personal well-being, contact us today: email: mentalhealth@anixter.org or one call does it all at 630.927.0426.
  • gov— An online guide that helps people navigate through common questions when they are at the start of their journey to better behavioral health.
  • gov— A confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance use/addiction and/or mental health problems.
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline— If you or someone you know needs support now, you can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Simply call or text 988 or chat org.
  • Veterans Crisis Line— Reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many of them are Veterans themselves. Dial 988 , then press 1.