Mental health and the holidays
Lookout Mountain Community Services can help
While the holiday season is thought by most to be merry and bright, it can also be a painful and overwhelming time for some individuals. It’s important to remember that not everyone reacts to the stresses and pressures that the holiday season can bring in the same way.
Individuals may experience a wide range of feelings and it’s important that we don’t dismiss them as “normal blues”. They may become considerably more withdrawn and some may fall into clinical depression that affects their long- term mental health.
If someone who is normally social becomes more withdrawn, starts sleeping more, or if they become more easily upset and overwhelmed these can be signs there may need to be a mental health intervention.
Be sure to check in with individuals around you who may be prone to these feelings.
Be a supportive presence and know when they need space and when they need more visible support and reassurance.
Being aware of the symptoms of a deepening depression brought on by the holidays and knowing when and where to get help is key.
If you feel as though you or someone you know may benefit from mental health supports and services, whether group or individual, you may walk-in between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at any Lookout Mountain Community Services outpatient clinic and receive a same-day Intake appointment.
Once established, you will have access to individualized supports and services offered by Lookout Mountain Community Services.
Locations in Fort Oglethorpe, Lafayette, Summerville, and Trenton mean that you will have fast access either in your hometown or close by.
For contact and location information regarding the clinic nearest you, please visit our website at www. LMCS.org or you may call 706-806- 1134 for more information.
Remember you are not alone. There is a team of people with a wide array of knowledge and experience who will be happy to support you or someone you know. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis you may text GA to 741741 any time day or night and you will be able to text with a certified Crisis Text Line counselor. You may also call and speak with someone as well by dialing 1-800-715-4225.