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Mental-health supports during holiday season
Letter to the Editor
As the holiday season begins, I want to extend warm wishes on behalf of our government to everyone across British Columbia.
This time of year can bring joy, connection and celebration, and it also brings added pressure. Shorter days, colder weather and expectations around gatherings and routines can make it more difficult to manage feelings of stress, loneliness, anxiety or grief. No matter what this season brings for you, it’s important to remember that you are not alone, and that support is available.
Taking small steps to care for your mental health can make a real difference. Setting boundaries, allowing yourself time to rest and being mindful not to take on too much can help you get through the season. If you begin to feel overwhelmed, reaching out for help is a positive and courageous step.
Free and low-cost mental-health resources are available. You can call a 24/7 crisis line for immediate support at:
* 310-Mental Health Support (310-6789) (no area code needed);
* 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) – Call or text 988;
* Kuu-us Crisis Line for Indigenous People – 1-800-588-8717;
* Kids Help Phone – Text CONNECT to 686868.
The holiday season can also be a higher-risk time for people who use drugs. The toxic-drug supply continues to cause devastating harm in communities across B.C., and using alone significantly increases the risk of death.
Carrying naloxone, using drug-checking services, using a supervised consumption or overdose-prevention site, or using the Lifeguard app can help keep people safe and connected to support when it’s needed.
These tools save lives and can be a first step toward treatment and recovery when someone is ready. If you are feeling ready to access treatment for opioid use, the Opioid Treatment Access Line is available at 1-833-804-8111, where doctors and nurses can provide care and prescribe treatment over the phone.
Our government is committed to ensuring everyone has access to the care and services they need, not just during the holidays, but all year round. Whatever this season means to you, we encourage you to take care of yourself and check in with those around you.
Even small acts of kindness and compassion, for yourself and others, can make a meaningful difference. Together, we can make this season safer and more supportive for everyone.
Josie Osborne,
B.C. Minister of Health
