The holiday season is a time to relax and connect with family and friends. It can also be a stressful time for many of us.

For young people it can mean they are away from their friends and the routines that bring structure and predictability to their lives. They also have less access to the support systems available to them during the school year. If you are worried about yourself or a young person over the holidays there are services and supports that you can reach out to.

· This 'traffic light' resource is for young people in Christchurch to support their well-being and has been developed locally by Tessa Appo. The categories for this are Keeping Well, Extra Support and Immediate Crisis. Check it out!

https://www.pegasus.health.nz/your-health/services-for-patients/children-young-people/wellbeing-support-that-meets-you-where-youre-at/

· Wellbeing Resources - Pegasus Health | Primary Health Services

Talk to your GP about being referred to see a counsellor for your mental health and wellbeing. You may be able to access up to five free talk therapy sessions. www.pegasus.health.nz

· Te Tahi Youth

Free support for 10 to 24-year-olds. A one-stop shop for medical, sexual and mental health services, as well as mentoring and employment support. Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm at 1/25 Churchill Street.

www.tetahiyouth.org.nz Contact them on: (03) 943 9298

Over the holidays Te Tahi Youth is open for limited hours, for drop-in sessions only. A Nurse or GP, and a Youth Worker will be available.

· Online or phone AFTER HOURS SUPPORT

When you need someone to talk to:

• Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 support from trained counsellor
• Lifeline – 0800 543 354
• Safe to Talk (If affected by sexual harm) 0800044334; Txt 4334.
• Aviva (Family Violence Services). 0800 284 82 669
• Youth line – 0800 376 633 or free text 234 (24hrs a day)
• Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202
• What's Up – 0800 942 8787 (5–18-year-olds). Phone counselling Monday to Friday, midday–11pm and weekends, 3pm–11pm.
• Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54 for young people up to 18 years of age. Open 24/7.
• Anxiety New Zealand - 0800 269 4389

For Mental Health Crisis or Emergency CALL

• Child, Adolescent & Family (CAF) Emergency Team (Business hours) 0800 218 219 - press 2
• Crisis Resolution, Freephone 0800 920 092, (After hours), 7 days a week.
• If it is an emergency, or you, or someone you know, is at immediate risk call 111
• Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)

Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy New Year from the Team at Simpson House.