Mental health and other resources available online
For many people, the holidays bring joy, connection, and celebration. But for countless others, this time of year can feel stressful, isolating, or emotionally draining.
Between financial pressures, family expectations, travel demands, the push to create a “perfect” holiday, and the recent barrage of bad news, stress can build quickly. While the season is often portrayed as cheerful and carefree, many individuals quietly struggle with loneliness, sadness, worry, or a sense of being overwhelmed.
This holiday season, and throughout the year, anyone who is finding life particularly challenging can access Sportsmen’s new Community Resource Hub Directory. This online directory is updated regularly, so community members can rely on it as a current and trusted source of support. This directory connects individuals with mental health, health care, and wellness supports across Boston as well as resources around health insurance, housing, legal aid, immigration/refugee, domestic violence and more.
“For some, the holidays bring joy. For others, they bring stress, loneliness, or worry. Our Community Resource Hub Directory is here to help individuals find support quickly and confidently, whether they need mental health care, wellness services, or connections to vital resources. No one should face these challenges alone,” said Dareen Ali, Sportsmen’s resident Social Worker.
Tips for Managing Holiday Stress
- Set realistic expectations. Planning ahead for shopping, travel, and gatherings can reduce last-minute anxiety.
- Ask for help. You don’t need to handle everything yourself. Invite friends or family to assist with holiday tasks.
- Simplify where you can. Scaling down traditions or events may help preserve your energy and peace of mind.
- Manage your time. Build in extra flexibility for unexpected changes or delays.
- Practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation, or calming music can help you reset.
- Stay active. Keep up with your regular exercise routine, even if you modify it for a busy schedule (don’t forget to fit some tennis in).
- Remember the basics of a healthy lifestyle. Aim for balance by prioritizing sleep, eating nourishing foods, and limiting alcohol to a healthy amount.
- Take breaks from the news. With so much difficult news lately, stepping away from constant updates can help reduce stress and protect your mental well-being.
- Stay connected. Share your feelings with someone you trust. Even a brief conversation can make a difference.
Remember: seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you turn to a trusted person or a professional resource, help is available, and you do not have to navigate challenges alone.