San Rafael, CA — The holiday season is often referred to as the happiest time of the year, but it can be a difficult season for many people experiencing isolation, grief and loss, and anxiety or depression. Social, financial, or family expectations can also cause extra stressors that compound mental health.
Checking in with each other strengthens connections and is a good way to see if someone needs mental health support.The Marin County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS), a division of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), reminds residents this holiday that help and hope are just a call or text away.
The holidays can be another reminder to check in with ourselves before feelings of distress emerge. By seeing signs, you can help avoid a crisis, or at least create a buffer during the holidays. Ask “How will I know it’s time for me to reach out?” Does something feel off? Does your heart race or palms become sweaty? Are you more irritable or withdrawn than usual? Or are you using more alcohol or substances? Those are just some of the signs that may mean it’s time to slow down, make a connection, and ask for support.
“Checking in with each other, during the holidays or at any other time, is a positive way to strengthen connections and to see if someone needs mental health support,” said Dr. Todd Schirmer, BHRS Director. “Just letting others know you’re there for them, if they want to talk about it, can make a big difference. Directly asking others, ‘How is your mental health?’ can be a door-opener for conversation and finding the support you need.”
Any resident experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis can contact the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “MARIN” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.
Marin residents seeking behavioral health services can call the 24-hour, confidential Access Line at 1-888-818-1115. Marin BHRS provides outpatient, residential, crisis services, and hospital care addressing specialty mental health and substance use service needs of Marin Medi-Cal beneficiaries and uninsured residents.
Learn more about the Marin County Suicide Prevention Collaborative and attend their next meeting: “Together in Collective Care: Reflections and Action for Suicide Prevention” on Wednesday January 4, 2023. Marin HHS has also released a guide, From Compassion to Action: A Community Guide for Suicide Prevention and Support in Marin County 2022.