(WHTM) — There’s no doubt, that plenty of people get sad during the holidays — even in the best of times, the stress of shopping, wrapping, and cooking can be trying. But, for those battling anxiety, mental health, or addiction, it can be debilitating, even dangerous.
But, help is out there.
“The holidays can be a joyous time for us to gather with our loved ones,” Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Val Arkoosh said. “Please know that if you’re going through hard times or grieving in any way, or navigating the delicate balance of changed or strained relationships, you are not alone. These feelings, especially through the holidays, are more common than you may think.”
Like Christmas elves, multiple state agencies are ready to give to those in need. The suicide and crisis hotline, 988, is manned 24/7, including all-day Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
“Even if you don’t feel like it’s an emergency, your feelings are valid and you can and should be heard,” Arkoosh said.