As daylight fades and temperatures drop, something quiet but heavy often begins to settle in. The holidays are approaching, and while they may bring bright lights and moments of joy, they can also stir up anxiety, loneliness and stress. In our region, when finances tighten around gift-giving and travel, and when family gatherings bring old wounds or tension to the surface, anxiety and low mood can show up fast.

The reality is, this season affects people more than we realize. Some are grieving. Some are overwhelmed by the pressure to make everything perfect. Others are navigating difficult relationships, financial strain or just trying to keep their head above water in the darker months. It’s a lot.

One of the most powerful steps you can take is to plan ahead. You don’t have to wait until things feel unbearable. You can build your ground plan now and identify simple, real strategies to help you stay steady before the season pushes you. Know one person you can call or text when the day gets heavy. Consider scheduling a check-in now so that support is already built into your calendar. Think about your holiday traditions including where you go, who you see, how much you spend and give yourself permission to make adjustments. You can say no. You can step outside. You can choose what you need.

It’s OK to make a small budget and stick to it. It’s OK to block out time just for yourself. Even getting outside for 10-15 minutes a day while the sun is still up can help ease the weight. If you notice your mood shifting, don’t ignore it. Keep your meals and sleep consistent and try not to let your routine disappear completely because those small anchors matter more than we often realize.

At NAMI in West Virginia, we’re here to help. We offer free, peer-led support groups, educational resources and a HelpLine that connects you with someone who understands. You can reach out by calling 800-950-6264 or by texting “NAMI” to 62640.

If you or someone you love is in crisis, dial 988 any time to speak with a trained counselor.

We know this time of year can be a pressure cooker, especially for those already carrying stress, anxiety, past trauma or feelings of isolation. Life doesn’t pause just because it’s the holiday season. Family struggles don’t freeze because the calendar turns to winter months. Financial fears don’t disappear with a cup of cocoa, but you don’t have to walk through it all alone.

By planning ahead and giving yourself grace, you shift the story from simply surviving the season to staying well through it.

As we head into the colder, darker months, let this be your reminder: there is help, there is hope and there is a community ready to walk with you no matter what this season brings.

Julie Gomez is the executive director of NAMI in West Virginia. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the United States.