Are you, a family member or a friend feeling overwhelmed, anxious, easy to anger, sad or confused about where to turn for support?
H.H. Garnet Elementary School has partnered with For All Seasons to create a Community Wellness Hub. These events are planned to be held twice a month, offering attendees access to support providers.
Abby Ritchie is the school social worker at H.H. Garnet Elementary School and an organizer of the Community Wellness Hub program.
"The holiday season, while a time for joy and connection, can also bring increased stress, sadness and anxiety," Ritchie said. "The Community Wellness Hub offers a variety of confidential, accessible resources in a safe environment, with connections to follow-up care, for those who may be struggling."
The first Community Wellness Hub of the month will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. this Tuesday, Dec. 9.
The program's organizers are also linking up with Garnet's Parent Teacher Association "Bingo Night with Santa" event, being held from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16.
Make an appointment or drop in to speak with a mental health professional. Healthy snacks will be provided. For more information or to make an appointment, call 410-778-6891.
Ritchie said personal finances, family dynamics, grief and the pressure to meet expectations can all contribute to the "holiday blues," a temporary feeling of sadness that can intensify symptoms for those already managing mental health challenges.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of individuals with a mental health condition say the holidays make their condition worse.
"It is important to acknowledge these feelings and know that you are not alone, and help is available," Ritchie said. "The Community Wellness Hub program provides a local alternative for support."
The Community Wellness Hub team encourages everyone to prioritize their mental health this holiday season.
For a mental health crisis or behavioral health emergency text or call 988 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Additional free and confidential mental health resources are available online through Kent County Public Schools' partnership with the Cook Center for Human Connection and ParentGuidance.org.
Learn more at https://www.kent.k12.md.us/MentalHealthResources.aspx.
