Feeling sad over Christmas? Local help is available.

For people who are dealing with feelings of sadness or anxiety, there are several helplines and online services you can use during times when your primary care provider’s office might be closed:

The North East LHIN’s Regional Warmline: Offers pre-crisis help, so that Northerners in need of mental health, addictions or other support after hours can speak to a peer and find out about services. Operated by the Northern Initiative for Social Action (NISA), the telephone line also empowers people with lived mental health experience by providing employment opportunities. Open 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., seven nights per week, by dialing 1-866-856-9276.

Drug and Alcohol Helpline: 1-800-565-8603

Mental Health Helpline: 1-866-531-2600

BounceBack is a free, skill-building approach to help people (15 years+) with depression and anxiety. Available in multiple languages, it offers three to six telephone coaching sessions, workbooks, and videos. Online videos also offer practical tips on managing mood, sleeping better, building confidence, increasing activity, problem-solving, and healthy living. To find out more go tohttps://bouncebackontario.ca

Big White Wall is an online peer support and self-management tool for adults and youth aged 16 and older experiencing symptoms of mild to moderate depression and anxiety. People sign up anonymously and no referral is necessary. To find out more about Big White Wall go to https://www.bigwhitewall.ca

www.northeasthealthline.ca is a resource for patients, caregivers, health care providers, and anyone wanting to learn about the more than 1,200 health services available for non-emergency medical needs in communities across Northeastern Ontario.

To learn more about the programs and resources available to help you eat healthily, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/healthy-choices

While the holidays can be a happy time, they can also put a lot of pressure on mental health. If you are dealing with a mental illness, the added stresses of the holidays (family, travelling, financial pressures) can be overwhelming. You can help reduce your stress by acknowledging your feelings and understanding that you can’t force yourself to be happy just because it’s the holiday season. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek support – talk to your doctor or mental health professional.