Are Holiday Blues Getting to You? Help is available.

While many New Jerseyans embrace the holiday season, some may find this to be a challenging time of year.

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey's NJMentalHealthCares Helpline provides emotional support and referral to mental health or substance use resources as necessary. Throughout the holiday season the Helpline is also offering call-in depression screenings and additional information about depression.

"Reactions to holiday stressors range from mild, such as feeling tired, to the extreme of being exhausted and overwhelmed. Some may suffer from loneliness and depression. We encourage everyone to pay attention to their moods and make plans in advance to build in some time for themselves," stated Carolyn Beauchamp, MSW, ACSW, President and CEO of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ). "When holiday blues turn extreme or interrupt a person’s regular routine, it may be time to seek emotional support from a mental health professional.”

For access to assistance and New Jerseyans are encouraged to call the confidential, toll-free NJMentalHealthCares Helpline at 1-866-202-HELP (4357) (TTY 1-877-294-4356). Calls are answered live from 8 a.m. to 12 midnight. Messages left between midnight and 8 a.m. are returned the next day. Multilingual service is available.

“Our phone lines are answered by professional behavioral health specialists who provide supportive counseling, crisis assessment and intervention,” said Stephanie Mulfinger, Director of Call Center Services for MHANJ. "We welcome anyone who has questions about the signs and symptoms of depression or other emotional or substance use challenges to call us during the holiday season." 

Depression is a gripping mental illness that can have a huge impact on a person's life. From young adults to the elderly and across all races, nearly one in 10 people in the U.S. suffer from depression. Screening for depression and other mood disorders allows individuals to identify warning signs early and connect with the appropriate treatment resources. Early recognition and treatment offer the best opportunity for recovery.

Although the screenings are not diagnostic, they do provide valuable insight helping to identify if someone is exhibiting symptoms associated with depression and other mood disorders and if they should seek help.

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey strives for good mental health for children and adults through advocacy, education, training, and services. Its main office is located in Verona, New Jersey; affiliate offices are located in Galloway, Jersey City, Toms River and Union.

NJMentalHealthCares is funded by the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

For more information about MHANJ, visit www.mhanj.org.