County resources available for those struggling with mental illness around holidays
For many dealing with mental illness in Ottawa County, the holiday season isn’t much of a celebration.
OTTAWA COUNTY — For many dealing with mental illness in Ottawa County, the holiday season isn’t much of a celebration.
Fortunately, there are a number of resources that address the sadness, stress and anxiety that affect many in the area. Community Mental Health of Ottawa County includes a specific section of resources for the holiday season as well as additional topics and tools for residents to choose from.
Shannon Felgner, Ottawa County communications director, said the resources are a free, accessible lifeline for those in need.
“The holiday season can be a difficult and stressful time for many people. Community Mental Health of Ottawa County has resources on a curated digital platform of mental health and self-care resources,” Felgner said. “We encourage residents to use the database to find tools tailored to their unique needs.”
Searching "holidays" within the platform brings up many assets, including podcasts, videos, articles and mental health assessments.
“Topics are diverse, ranging from substance abuse, grief, stress, social anxiety, and even the post-holiday blues,” she said. Felgner said she urges residents with urgent emotional support during the holidays or any time of the year should call or text the Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Fundraising for mental health assistance
There is a Christmas tree decorating competition and silent auction that will take place on the Grand Haven waterfront to raise funds for a West Michigan nonprofit that provides support for mental health illness and suicide loss.
The event, “Trees for a Cause,” is hosted by Snug Harbor and the Grand Rapids-based organization i understand from 3-6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, at Snug Harbor, 311 S. Harbor Drive, Grand Haven.
Funds raised through the silent auction of the decorated trees will benefit i understand, which offers “education, hope and support to individuals and families affected by suicide or mental and brain health illness and pain,” according to a press release.
Snug Harbor owner Steve Loftis emphasized the event's broader purpose.
“It’s about lighting up lives, bringing people together, celebrating creativity and showing support for those who need it most during the holidays,” Loftis said.
Competition details, charity
Fifteen teams, made up of local businesses, families and community members, will decorate six-foot trees around creative themes. Following a period of judging and public voting, the trees will be auctioned.
Two of the decorated trees will be donated to the Salvation Army.
The event, hosted on the restaurant's heated deck, will feature a $10 chili and appetizer bar, along with holiday cocktail specials. The goal is to support i understand and raise awareness for suicide and mental and brain health.
More information on the nonprofit can be found at iunderstandloveheals.org.
— Heather VanDyke covers northern Ottawa County for the Ottawa News Network. Contact her at hvandyke@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
