Keeping Your Peace Through the Holidays

As some find joy in preparing for Thanksgiving dinner, setting up the menorah, putting up lights around the house, or filling their calendars with gatherings, others may experience this season as a stressful time. Many people feel overwhelmed by event pressure, financial strain, loneliness or increased challenges around substance use. 

To help our community navigate the emotional ups and downs this time of year, the Sacramento County Department of Health Services is sharing five practical tips to support your behavioral health and help you cope with the pressures of the holiday season. 

1. Acknowledge how you’re feeling

Recognizing when you’re stressed or off your usual routine is key. During the holidays we often juggle more events than usual. Keeping consistent sleep times and meal routines supports emotional well-being.

2. Make a plan for managing stress

Whether you go for a walk, brain rot in front of the tv or play video games with friends online, pick activities you enjoy and lean on them when you feel stretched. Planning ahead gives your brain a backup when things feel intense. 

3. Connect with others

Whether it’s a phone call, a text message or a direct message – checking in on someone can boost both your and their moods. The simple act of reaching out and sharing your presence is all that matters. 

4. Be mindful of alcohol and substance use

For people in recovery or those prone to holiday-time stress, social events can be triggering. Having an exit plan, a trusted person you can call or a go-to non-alcoholic drink can make a big difference. If you’re concerned, help is available. 

5. Know when (and how) to get support

If you or someone you care about is feeling seriously down, anxious or isolated, you’re not alone. Sacramento County provides these resources year-round: 

• 9-8-8 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline): Connects to your local crisis center. If in-person intervention is needed, Sacramento County’s Community Wellness Response Team may be dispatched. 
• Behavioral Health Services Screening and Coordination (BHS SAC) Team is a 24/7 hotline that can provide an over-the-phone brief screening and linkage to an appropriate mental health​ service provider. 
  (916) 875-1055 or toll free (888) 881-4881 
• Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic (MHUCC): Walk-in crisis services for all ages for mental health and/or substance use support. Location: 2130 Stockton Blvd., Building 300, Sacramento, CA 95817. Phone: (916) 520-2460. 

The holidays can be stressful, and it’s ok to search for your PEACE. If you need help, reach out to a friend, a family member or a professional.  You don’t have to carry everything alone. 

For more resources visit the Sacramento County’s Behavioral Health page. 

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