Holidays and winter
When the holidays are harder than they are supposed to be
For a lot of people this time of year brings more strain, not less. This page gathers what is already on this site about the things that tend to come up, so you can go straight to the one that fits.
Where to start
Pick the one that sounds most like you.
The articles and guides are general reading, not a substitute for talking to someone. You do not need the right word for what is going on before you get in touch.
Stretched thin
Plans, travel, money and other people's expectations get added to a load that was already full. If worry has started to feel like the normal state of things, start here.
A low mood that will not lift
Shorter days and the flat stretch after the holidays can be hard going. If the heaviness has lasted long enough that you have started calling it normal, it is worth talking to someone about.
Missing someone
Occasions built around being together can make an absence harder to ignore. Grief is one of the things people come to Jim with, and there are free local groups as well.
Family gatherings with someone who hurt you
The holidays can put you back in a room with someone who controlled, belittled or harmed you. It helps to decide ahead of time what contact you can manage, and what you will do if it goes badly.
Old memories coming back
Anniversaries, places and family can bring back things you thought were behind you. If something from the past keeps surfacing, you do not have to wait for January to deal with it.
Starting therapy in the new year
If you have been meaning to talk to someone, the turn of the year can be a natural point to begin. It helps to know what to ask, and to check your benefits before the first session.
If this is more than a hard season, the help page lists every line and what happens when you call, and this guide covers crisis and support services across Texas. The Denning Center does not provide crisis or after-hours coverage.
If you have been meaning to talk to someone.
Tell us a little about what is going on and Jim will get back to you. You can also call 210-714-3308.