The holidays are often portrayed as joyful and full of fresh starts. But for many people across Ontario—including our communities here in Simcoe County—this time of year can bring stress, grief, financial pressure, loneliness, or reminders of trauma. If that’s your experience, it’s ok if…
…it doesn’t feel merry and bright.
…the new year doesn’t feel like a new beginning.
…this isn’t the most wonderful time of year.
It’s Ok If You Need Something Different
- it’s ok if you need more quiet than celebration
- it’s ok if you step back from traditions
- it’s ok if joy feels different right now
- it’s ok if you ask for help
Your feelings are real and valid. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength.
You’re Not Alone
Winter months can intensify mental health challenges, especially in colder regions of Central and Northern Ontario. If you’re struggling, support is available – confidential, local, and here when you need it.
Below, you’ll find crisis lines and community services to help you find safety, connection, and support during the holiday season and into the new year.
For immediate mental health and addiction support, available 24/7:
- 9-8-8: If you are in crisis, call or text 9-8-8 – Canada’s helpline for anyone who is thinking about suicide or who is worried about someone they know
- 9-1-1: In an emergency, call 9-1-1 or visit your closest emergency department
- Kids Help Phone: Text 686868, call 1-800-668-6868 or visit kidshelpphone.ca
- Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511 | TTY – 1-866-863-7868
- Talk4Healing Indigenous Women: 1-855-554-4325
- Huronia Transition Homes (Rosewood): Text us for Support 24/7: 705-999-0012 | 24 Hour Crisis Lines: South Simcoe: 1-800-987-0799 | North Simcoe: 1-800-461-1750
For non-urgent mental health and addiction support, please consider:
- Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program (OSP): Free Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and related services for adults (18+) experiencing depression, anxiety and trauma related concerns
- Frontline Wellness: free, confidential, low barrier support for healthcare workers and healthcare organizations to help enhance resilience and manage mental health challenges
- 1door.ca: Visit 1door.ca for 24/7 referrals to free counselling services
- Patient/Client & Family Council (PCFC): Peer Support Services – call 705-526-4569
- North Simcoe Youth Wellness Hub: The North Simcoe Youth Wellness Hub is a safe, welcoming space where young people aged 12–25 can get the support they need — for mental health, substance use, employment, education, and more.
Other health care resources to consider:
- 8-1-1: Visit health811.ontario.ca or call 8-1-1 to connect to qualified health professionals who can provide health advice and information
- Virtual Urgent Care Clinic: Available to residents in the central region of Ontario who require timely access to a nurse practitioner for urgent non-life-threatening conditions that can be addressed virtually. Open 7 days a week from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. (including holidays).
- 2-1-1: Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 to connect to social services, programs and community supports.
Dr. Poulin on CBC Radio One
If you’re not feeling your best during the holidays, you’re not alone. Dr. Ginette Poulin – Medical Director of Concurrent Disorders at Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, talked about taking care of ourselves over the holiday season.