Care for yourself during the holidays: Grande Prairie Suicide Prevention Program Coordinator

The Suicide Prevention Resource Centre wants to let people know that there is help if the holiday season is taking an emotional toll
 
Program coordinator Faris Atkinson says for some, this is not the happiest time of year.
 
“Whatever holiday people celebrate during this time of year, Christmas time, the expectation is to feel joy and some people really are having a hard time with that. For one reason or another, but often times it is because their heart’s broken.”
 
Atkinson says the biggest thing is to look after yourself during the holidays.

“Your basic needs. You are getting the sleep that you need, the proper nutrition, and hydration. Often times, you need a little extra water when you are stressed.”

Support groups, help from family, and physical activity can all help during this difficult time of year. Atkinson explains that having strong and healthy support is good to have around during the hard times. 

With files from Jordan Parker