Christmas and the holiday season can be a time of joy and happiness, but for some it’s the most difficult time of the year. Those experiencing stress or worry can often find this time of year hard to cope with.Christmas and the holiday season can be a time of joy and happiness, but for some it’s the most difficult time of the year. Those experiencing stress or worry can often find this time of year hard to cope with.

According to Eugene McGarrell, Mental Health Manager at COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN, a number of triggers can cause mental health concerns during Christmas and New Year.

“Things like family tensions, excessive alcohol consumption, loneliness, isolation and money worries can rise to the surface and make people feel worse around the holiday season.

“It’s important for people to realise that there is help available if they are struggling and we want to get the word out about some of the ways to get support to the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern NSW community,” said Mr McGarrell.

WHO TO CALL, WHERE TO LOOK…If you are considering getting you or a loved one support, there are a number of different avenues to obtain help:

• See your GP and talk to them about what you or your loved one is experiencing – they can offer you options for support in your local area or make a referral to someone who can help.
• Find health and wellbeing help via Head to Health on 1800 595 212 (no referral needed).
  A free coaching service New Access, developed by beyondblue is available across South Eastern NSW via face-to-face, phone or video call sessions.
• To sign up and register with a Coach, call 1300 921 535 or visit www.wellways.org/our-services/newaccess

If you or a loved one need immediate assistance, you can call Emergency Services on 000, or you can call the following numbers for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week:

• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
• Beyond Blue Support line: 1300 224 636
• Domestic and Family Violence Support Line: 1800 RESPECT

Click here a full list of mental health supports and services available in South Eastern NSW during the holiday period.

COORDINARE news, Media release, Mental health