Expectations Can Worsen Holiday Season Stress: Howell Alliance

HOWELL, NJ — Sometimes, the "happy" in Happy New Year just isn't there for people in this season of celebration.

So the Howell Alliance offers some tips to help us all be more mindful of the feelings and experiences of others - situations that might make this time of year even harder for them.

"During this time, please remember to look out for and be respectful of those struggling with mental health and/or substance use disorders," said Christa Riddle, the township's coordinator of the Howell Alliance. The alliance increases awareness of mental illness and substance use disorder.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64 percent of individuals living with a mental illness said they felt worse around the holidays, she pointed out.

And there are other life experiences that can be challenging for anyone to face.

Common triggers of holiday season stress include:

• lacking holiday spirit
• being overwhelmed by grief or loss
• feeling pressured to participate in activities and get-togethers
• experiencing gift-giving stress
• suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) with less hours of sunlight
• feeling alone or isolated

If you or someone you know is facing a mental health or substance use crisis, always call 911.

The National Suicide, Mental Health & Substance Use Crisis Lifeline also is now a quick call away at 988. It is available 24/7 via call or text to anyone in need, Riddle said.

Read and share McLean Hospital's "Guide to Managing Mental Health Around the Holidays"for support strategies to help yourself or someone you know, Riddle advised.

For more local, state, and national mental health and substance use support resources and services, visit the Howell Alliance website.

And have a happy - but empathetic - New Year.