KSL+

KSL+: Addressing mental health and loneliness during the holidays

Dec 16, 2022, 12:10 PM | Updated: May 15, 2023, 1:59 pm

SALT LAKE CITY — The most wonderful time of the year can also be among the most difficult times.

Inflation is leading more people to food banks leading more people to food banks and the pandemic and other circumstances have taken a toll on the mental health of many.

This week, we talk to a professor and a psychiatrist about loneliness over the holidays and why they say one of the best things you can do to combat those thoughts and feelings is to do what Utah does best: serve others.

Suicide prevention resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or exhibiting warning signs, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 which is answered 24/7/365 by crisis counselors at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. All calls to legacy crisis hotlines, including the old National Suicide Prevention hotline, 1-800-273-8255, will also connect to a crisis care worker at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute as well.

Additional resources

  • SafeUT: Parents, students, and educators can connect with a licensed crisis counselor through chat by downloading the SafeUT app or by calling 833-3SAFEUT (833-372-33888)
  • SafeUT Frontline: First responders, including firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, and healthcare professionals can chat with a licensed crisis counselor at no cost 24/7/365 by downloading the SafeUT Frontline app.
  • SafeUTNG: Members of the National Guard can chat with a licensed crisis counselor at no cost 24/7/365 by downloading the SafeUTNG app.
  • Utah Warm Line: For non-crisis situations, when you need a listening ear as you heal and recover from a personal struggle, call 1-833 SPEAKUT 8:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m., 7 days a week, 365 days a year. · The Huntsman Mental Health Institute offers a wide variety of programs and services including suicide prevention and crisis services, hospital treatment, therapy & medication management, substance Use & addiction recovery, child & teen programs, and maternal mental health services including birth trauma, pregnancy loss, infertility, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. · LiveOnUtah.org is a statewide effort to prevent suicide by promoting education, providing resources, and changing Utah’s culture around suicide and mental health. They offer resources for faith based groups, LGBTQ+, youth, employers, firearm suicide prevention, and crisis and treatment options.

Other community-based resources

  • NAMI Utah provides education, support and advocacy for individuals and families impacted by mental illness.
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention offers prevention programs, public education, support for loss survivors, and fundraising for research.
  • Encircle Utah: LGBTQ+ family and youth resource center.
  • Utah Pride Center empowers Utah’s diverse LGBTQ+ community.
  • The Trevor Project: LGBTQ teen resource center.
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Mental Health
  • Latino Behavioral Health Services · Center for Workplace Mental Health offers suicide prevention and response for employers

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KSL+: Addressing mental health and loneliness during the holidays