The holidays and mental health – WAOW

WAUSAU, Wis. (WAOW) -- This week, a lot of us will be seeing people we love but maybe not people we know. They may have trauma, triggers, or stress that's made worse by the pressure of the holidays.

Ryan Stever is a psychiatric resident at North Central Health Care. He said, "A lot of time people are getting together with family members they haven't seen in a while and that can be a great thing but also bring up some old conflict, potential trauma."

Those issues can resurface through conversation or even holiday spirits.

"People struggle with alcohol abuse drug abuse ... and in the holidays alcohol is ubiquitous," said Stever. He emphasized the issues that can create in a group setting.

That doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't have alcohol on the table but be open and aware of the people sitting around your table.

"Put yourself in their shoes," said Stever. "Be a little empathetic that there may be some struggles they are going through that you may not comprehend."

If that person is you and things get heated over the holidays, grab a coat and go for a quick walk to clear your mind. When you return, communicate clearly. Stever said it's important to talk through whats happening.

On the other side, if you're not facing any of these struggles, consider getting involved and helping your community.

Seniors or those who may be away from family could especially use your help. "For people that might be lonely, [the holidays] can exacerbate those feelings," said Stever. "They can be sitting there thinking ,'Everybody is with their families and here I am, all alone."

So, consider visiting a local senior center or volunteering at a non-profit this holiday season.

If a crisis does arise this week, you can call 715-845-4326 or 800-799-0122. You can also find 24/7 care at North Central Health Care's Crisis Center. 1100 Lake View Drive Wausau, WI 54403

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The holidays and mental health - WAOW