It is also a time that can be challenging, bringing feelings of heightened stress and feeling overwhelmed.
For many, it can also be a time of grief and loneliness.
And sadly for some, it can be a time of conflict.
But Deni MHAG would like to remind the community that help is available anywhere, any time for those who might need some support over the festive season – a time when their regular supports might not be available.
“Talking about your feelings can improve your mood and make it easier to cope when things feel too much,” Deni MHAG president Alison Thorne said.
“Sometimes just sharing the load or talking to someone about things you might not be able to talk to family and friends about, can be helpful.”
Deni MHAG member Lourene Liebenberg said there are services available to have a chat and provide support.
“While many people are aware of 24/7 crisis lines, we do want our community to know that you do not necessarily have to be in crisis to reach out for support,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
“Seeking help earlier, rather than later, can bring relief and the strategies offered can often help people deal with the issue at hand and make it tolerable and feel better.”
Deni MHAG has created a specific holidays wellbeing page, which can be found at https://www.denimentalhealth.org.au/holidays, or by using the QR code on page 5.
Griefline offers free, compassionate and confidential support every day of the year. They can be reached 8am - 8pm on 1300 854 745.
Friendline is another free and confidential service and can be reached on 1800 424 287 or https://www.friendline.org.au/.
Aimed at providing support to people who are lonely, or who just want to connect with someone to talk to, this service operates between the hours of 10am and 8pm daily.
Loneliness is experienced by many people every day, but during holiday periods and Christmas this feeling can become stronger when we do not have the support of family around us.
Listening Ear is a free non-crisis line, offering a similar service.
Support is provided to combat loneliness and providing a safe place to share feelings and concerns.
This service can be reached on (02) 9477 6777 from 9am to 9pm daily, or at https://listeningear.org.au/.
“We also acknowledge that some people might not be feeling safe for several reasons, or need immediate support during this time,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
“We remind people there is a number of 24/7 helplines people can reach out to including 1800 Respect, Lifeline, Kids Helpline, 13YARN and more.
“These helplines can be found on www.denimentalhealth.org.au/helplines.
“Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or high distress can call Accessline on 1800 800 944 or present to the Deniliquin Health Service Emergency Department 24/7. If a life is in danger, call 000.”
Deni MHAG is a local volunteer run mental health charity raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing and signposting the way to help.
“Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group (Deni MHAG) would like to wish our whole community a happy and safe holiday time and Christmas, and thank the community for their support during 2024,” Ms Thorne said.
• Anyone requiring crisis support can contact Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. Resources and pathways to help are also available at www.denimentalhealth.org.au.
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