Mental Health Support During the Holidays
The holiday season can bring moments of joy, connection, and celebration—but it can also stir up added emotions, stress, and uncertainty. This year in particular, many people are navigating heightened stress locally, nationally, and globally. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally stretched, you are not alone—and support is available.
Holidays often come with expectations: to feel cheerful, to gather, to keep traditions going as usual. When reality doesn’t match those expectations—because of grief, illness, financial strain, family tension, or mental health challenges—it can be especially hard. It’s okay to acknowledge that this season feels complicated. Taking care of your mental well-being matters just as much as caring for others.
There are many trusted resources for immediate help, ongoing support, and reliable information. You can find links on our website and through Shine, but here are a few gentle, practical steps you can take right now to support your mental health.
Things You Can Do Today
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Limit constant news and social media consumption. Taking breaks can reduce anxiety and emotional overload.
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Stay connected. Reach out to friends, family members, or colleagues—even a brief check-in can help.
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Check in on people you love (and let them check in on you). Support works best when it flows both ways.
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Plan one small self-care activity. Something simple you can look forward to—a walk, a warm drink, quiet time, or a favorite show.
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Be mindful of alcohol and cannabis use. These can intensify emotions, especially during stressful times.
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Keep a routine when possible. Sleep, meals, and movement all play an important role in emotional regulation.
Support Is Available 24/7
If you or someone you care about needs support, these resources are available at any time:
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 | National Helpline
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Call2Talk (Massachusetts) – 508-532-2255 | 24/7 Helpline
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Mass Behavioral Health Access (BHHL) – 833-773-2445 | 24/7 Helpline
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Hey Sam – Peer-to-peer mental health support | Text: 439-726 | Hours: 9AM-12AM (Midnight) ET
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Shine Initiative – Tools, education, and local supports
If urgent mental health care is needed, TaraVista Behavioral Health Center is here to help—including throughout the holidays. Our team is available to support individuals, families, and referring providers when higher-level care is needed. 💙
Support starts with reaching out. You don’t have to navigate this season alone.
For more trusted tools, education, and mental health resources, visit taravista.care/resources.