Mental Health Holiday Toolkit

The holiday season can be filled with joy and celebrations, but this time of year can also trigger difficult emotions, thoughts, or behaviors for those affected by substance misuse or mental and behavioral health challenges. Knowing how to support those who may be in need during this time starts by learning what resources and supports are available.

Missouri Maternal Health Action Network has put together the following helpful resources, supports, and tips as we approach the holiday season.

Additional Support Resources for the Holidays

• SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

• NAMI Helpline: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

• National Call Center for Homeless Vets: Call 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838)

• United Way: Dial 2-1-1

Helpful Websites

• SAMHSA Find Help

• SAMHSA Find Support

• SAMHSA Find Treatment

• SAMHSA Find Treatment (Spanish)

• Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Housing Assistance

• National Call Center for Homeless Vets

Support Groups

• Postpartum Support International

• Postpartum Support International (Spanish Support Groups)

• SAMHSA Support Groups

• NAMI Support Groups

Additional Resources

• Support During the Holidays Toolkit (SAMHSA)

• Tips for Managing Your Mental Health During the Holidays (NAMI)

• Coping Tips (Mental Health KC)

• Support Your Team and Your Guests - Tips for hosting a party including guests who may not be drinking (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism)

Activities

• Children's gratitude activity. Can be done as a standalone project or in conjunction with the read aloud story.

• My Mental Wellbeing Affirmation Cards

• Vibrant Emotional Health's Calming Kaleidoscope Exercise

The Missouri Maternal Health Action Network works to improve behavioral health outcomes of Missouri mothers, children, and families affected by perinatal substance use and mental and behavioral health challenges. For more information, contact mo_actionnetwork@umkc.edu or visit their website here.