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January 01, 2023 - 7:00 PM
If you're feeling lonely this holiday season, be assured you're not alone.
According to Interior Health, the number of callers to its crisis line is holding steady in the wake of the pandemic with no signs of slowing down.
"We're still seeing numbers comparable to during the pandemic times. So people are still needing to reach out for support during the holidays," said Asha Croggon of Interior Crisis Line Network.
She said what's different about this season is they're seeing an influx of older generations seeking help. The majority used to be 25-year-olds.
"Our largest majority will be people in their 40s," she said.
"We have people calling us about incident-partner violence, veterans reaching out for support, young people experiencing bullying -- literally everything."
She adds the holiday season has its highs and lows.
"People's coping skills have been taxed a lot. People have been self-navigating their mental health by reaching out to a crisis line. There can also be a heightened feeling of loneliness and isolation over the holidays."
There are approximately 120 volunteers working the crisis line in the Interior Health region at any given time. Croggon admits it takes courage to pick up the phone.
"Know that we're always grateful to hear from you. We're always there because we recognize the decision to pick up the phone and say, 'I need some support'."
You can reach out to the highly-trained staff at 1-888-353-CARE (2273).
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