While the holidays can bring comfort and joy, they can also be a stressful time, and Florida’s health management entities are providing helpful tips to manage holiday anxiety.
There are seven behavioral health managing entities in the state, and all of them are aware that stress heading into Christmas and New Year’s Day can seem overwhelming at times. They’re advising that balance may be key to handling the holidays.
“The holidays are a time of joy, but they can also be a time of stress, sadness and triggering situations,” said Natalie Kelly, CEO of the Florida Association of Managing Entities. “Florida’s behavioral health Managing Entities remind Floridians that behavioral health services are available, even to those who are uninsured or underinsured.”
The state’s behavioral health professionals are also providing a list of tips to help come to grips with any holiday tension, including:
— Get plenty of exercise. Exercising boosts your mood and combats depression.
— Limit alcohol intake. Alcohol is a depressant that can cause feelings of anxiety, sadness and depression.
— Set healthy boundaries and don’t overextend yourself. Setting realistic expectations can help reduce stress.
— Seek the help of a counselor for mental health needs. If you feel overwhelmed or need help managing your feelings, contact a counselor.
— Call 2-1-1 if needed to connect with resources in your community.
— Call 9-8-8 if you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts.
A mental health treatment network has been established in the state to support providers serving residents in need of care. Those services extend to parents and children, veterans and the homeless.
Providers serve patients for not only mental health needs, but also substance use, housing, transportation and employment help. Community organizations and administrators often oversee the management of those entities and are accountable for state and federal funds.