Active crisis calls have jumped 50% in the run-up to the holidays, according to officials at the California Parent and Youth Helpline. The helpline is staffed by trained professional counselors who can listen, help people with self-calming techniques, and direct the caller to appropriate help. It s open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. .
Although the holidays are one of the happiest times of the year, people with mental illness may not see it the same way. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 31% of adults said they expect to feel more stress this holiday season compared with last year, which could lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. Experts find being around family at the holidays can introduce numerous triggers for a psychological episode. .
New York City Mayor Eric Adams new plan for aiding the mentally ill is facing backlash for its effectiveness. Adams plan allows police officers, firefighters, paramedics and other trained professionals to involuntarily hospitalize anyone deemed to be severely mentally ill. The new plan is aimed specifically at homeless people dealing with severe mental illness. .