The 24/7 crisis line at NEOSS is available for those in need of urgent counselling services. (Thor Mental Health Advocate/Facebook)

By Rachel May

Holiday Helpers

Taking time to care for yourself this holiday season

Nov 26, 2021 | 5:00 PM

It’s not just the cold weather making people blue across the northeast this holiday season.

With people experiencing increased levels of anxiety and depression around the holidays, North East Outreach and Support Services (NEOSS) is gearing up to help those in need of support.

The Counselling Connect Saskatchewan program offers same-day counselling services to those in need.

Ashley Schwanke, the outreach manager at NEOSS, said they are happy to offer counselling support to those who need it when they need it.

“You can book with a counsellor across the province. You can get an appointment within an hour or five minutes based on what’s available.”

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Family Service Saskatchewan is a network of 11 different support programs. NEOSS is one of the membered agencies.

Previously the network call the service walk-in counselling but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they had to change the program.

The service continues to offer walk-in services but has added virtual appointments.

The counselling session is one hour in length and those utilizing the service are invited to talk about any concerns they have.

Common topics include grief, relationships, bullying, addictions, anxiety, depression, isolation and loneliness.

For those searching for more urgent counselling services, NEOSS offers their 24/7 crisis line.

Schwanke said the rapid access counselling program tends to have more people reaching out for support.

“The trend we have noticed is that come the fall when the school year starts to get busier and busier. In winter we are at our busiest.”

Thor Mental Health Advocate is a mascot for mental health in the northeast. Sharing tips, tricks and advice on how to take care of yourself during stressful times.

Thor can be can found on Facebook or on Instagram travelling around the province.

If you are someone you know is struggling with their mental health, contact NEOSS 24/7 crisis line at 1.800.611.6349 or make a virtual or in-person counselling appointment with Counselling Connect Saskatchewan.

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Rachel.May@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RachelMayFM