During the holiday season, many Oklahomans feel increased stress and mental health struggles. Sunbeam Family Services highlights the importance of addressing these issues and offers resources for coping.
In a recent interview, Angie Doss, the chief development and marketing officer at Sunbeam, noted that about 20% of adults in Oklahoma deal with mental health conditions. Alarmingly, nearly two-thirds of these individuals report worsening symptoms during the holidays. Factors like shorter days, financial pressures, and family expectations often lead to heightened stress levels.
Doss explains, “Everything comes at once when you’re supposed to be slowing down and enjoying your family.” This sentiment resonates with many during this busy time of year.
To manage stress, Doss suggests grounding and relaxation techniques. These include slow breathing, light tapping on the collarbone, and grounding exercises like placing your hands on your legs or naming five things you can see. Such practices can help to calm a racing mind.
Sunbeam Family Services also offers sliding-scale counseling services, both in-person and virtually. Doss emphasizes that speaking with a professional can provide much-needed relief. “Once you start talking about your feelings, you’ll find relief and begin to feel better,” she says.
It’s crucial to recognize that you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed during the holidays. Many people appreciate the support and encouragement from organizations like Sunbeam. If you’re looking for assistance, check out Sunbeam Family Services’ resources [here](https://sunbeamfamilyservices.org/).
Recent studies show that mental health issues can spike during the holidays, reinforcing the need for accessible support systems. According to a 2022 survey by the American Psychological Association, 38% of adults reported increased stress during the festive season. It’s clear that recognizing and addressing holiday-related stress is vital.
Social media is also buzzing with conversations about holiday mental health, showcasing shared experiences and tips for coping. Using hashtags like #HolidayMentalHealth, people are finding community and understanding in their struggles.
As the season approaches, it’s a good reminder to reach out and talk to others. Help is available, and shared experiences can make a world of difference.
