Here are a few tips from Denise Haggerty, our mental health clinical supervisor, to help you through the holiday season.
- Make a self-care plan.
“My favorite is making a self-care plan that includes escape plans to create space for yourself. If you have to be with a family that is not supportive, have some phone numbers of who you can call to feel connected.”
- Get moving around.
“Get some movement to regulate your nervous system (walk, jumping jacks, dancing) and set boundaries to keep yourself safe.”
- Treat yourself.
“Finally, plan a post holiday gift for yourself that is based on your interests/wellness. No matter what the holidays bring, know that you matter and who you are is beautiful.”
If you’re in crisis, here are some mental health hotlines for the LGBTQ+ community.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: For immediate support, dial 988, reach out to the Crisis Text Line by texting NAMI to 741-741, or visit 988lifeline.org.
- Trans Lifeline: For peer support by transgender people for those who are trans or questioning, call 877-565-8860. Trans Lifeline's Hotline is there to offer understanding and assistance.
