WINDSOR COUNTY — With the arrival of the holidays, children are home from school, visitors stop by, and routines are disrupted. “For many, the holidays are a stressful time, increasing feelings of depression, loneliness, overwhelm and anxiety,” says Kate Lamphere, LICSW, Director of Adult Services at HCRS. Stay safe during the holidays by keeping the following points in mind and using the resources below.
Watch stress levels. The holidays are a festive time but can also be a stressful due to social obligations, expectations, and even sad memories. “Practice mindfulness, check in with friends and family, seek support and maintain a regular routine,” said Lamphere. If you start to feel overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety, reach out to your physician, a professional mental health counselor, or call a crisis hotline. “HCRS has a 24-hour hotline,” Lamphere said, “if you are in crisis, having thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself over the holidays, please give us a call at 1-800-622-4235.”
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