Christmas and New Year can be tough for people experiencing loneliness, stress, or conflict, but help and services are available in Central, either in person, on the phone or via online resources.

The Southern Lakes Wellbeing group (Te Hau Toka) has prepared an online guide ‘Getting help over Christmas and New Year’ specific to Cromwell and Alexandra. 

Some services are closed over Christmas or they have an on-call roster, allowing carers a chance to take a break and recharge as well. 

The Covid-19 pandemic - combined with spiralling living costs, labour shortages in many sectors, an economic downturn and weather events - means many Central residents will be keen to check in with and share their feelings with whānau, friends, colleagues, neighbours over the holidays.

A fact worth reminding yourself of is the therapeutic boost from a hug, Te Hau Hoka says.

Te Hau Toka’s newsletter said researchers have discovered when a hug lasts 20 seconds, it produces a therapeutic effect on the body and mind.

A hug produces oxytocin, the love hormone, and reduces stress levels (cortisol). When times are tough or we’re feeling down or lost, a hug can boost our self-worth and help ground us by reminding us that people care.

Frequent hugging and hand-holding can also help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

Another way to boost your mental wellbeing is to learn about the Five Ways to Wellbeing here. 

The Mental Health Foundation’s Five Ways to Wellbeing

Meanwhile, a launch of a mental health crisis service for Central has been delayed due to sickness and staffing issues. Read more here.

Useful numbers:

• For mental health emergencies - ring 111 if it is an immediate emergency
• Crisis Mental Health Emergency Services (Te Whatu Ora Southern) are available to call 24/7. Ring 0800 467 846 and press 1 for Southland or 2 for Otago
• Lifeline 0800 543 354 or text “help” to 4357. 24/7 helpline staffed by health professionals and highly trained volunteers
• Youthline 0800 376633, free txt 234 or email: [email protected]
• Healthline - call 0800 611 116: Staffed by an experienced team that includes registered nurses, paramedics and health advisors who can provide you with health information and advice on care.