A major part of representing people and families across Genesee, Lapeer and Tuscola counties involves standing up for our most vulnerable and serving as their voice.

It’s important this holiday season that we check in on those in need and that people are informed of available resources. Many of us are blessed to be able to spend time or sit down for a meal with our families, exchange gifts, and ring in the new year. But not everyone has someone. This makes it hard to have a conversation or get support, and it can cause significant concerns for mental health and substance abuse.

According to a National Alliance on Mental Illness survey, approximately 24 percent of people with a diagnosed mental illness disclosed that the holidays make their condition significantly worse, and 40 percent reported that their conditions are made somewhat worse. Many of the survey’s respondents felt the holidays exacerbate feelings of depression or dissatisfaction, recollections of happier times in the past that contrast with the present, and sadness about the inability to be with loved ones. In addition, the highest rate for child psychiatric hospitalizations occurs during the winter months.

These enhanced symptoms can lead to increased chances of distress, self-harm or suicide. The Michigan Crisis and Access Line, using the three-digit 988 phone number, is a free, confidential statewide service available 24 hours per day and seven days per week that provides crisis counselors and help for people experiencing depression and anxiety or have a loved one in need. Dedicated support staff will help callers get connected to service providers and community mental health organizations, and can coordinate face-to-face crisis services, pre-admission screening, and behavioral health referrals.

There are also several “Blue Christmas” services available throughout the area. These are special church services that offer a space for people experiencing grief, loss, loneliness or sadness during the holidays to find comfort, reflection and hope.

I have consistently fought for better access to needed mental health care and services during my time in the Legislature. I fought to preserve the Caro Center – one of just a few psychiatric hospitals statewide – in 2019 when I represented Caro in the Michigan House for two legislative terms before districts were redrawn prior to the 2023-24 term. The state had paused reconstruction and discussed closing the facility altogether, which threatened available treatment options for those in need across the region.

I have voted for plans this legislative term that provide significantly enhanced mental health support for students after funding for it was cut last year, as well as several bills that lessen bureaucracy for mental health professionals so higher costs are not passed on to patients and we don’t lose people working in this critical industry to states with more effective, common-sense policies. I have also supported expanded resources and programs for substance abuse prevention during my time in the Legislature.

Even a quick chat with someone at a local store or touching base with a neighbor can make a huge difference. Connection and meaning are vital to our mental health. We must acknowledge the holidays may not be “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” for everyone, and work to both support and uplift our fellow community members.