The holiday season is often painted as joyful and bright. And while there is plenty to celebrate, it can also bring a quieter kind of pressure. Full calendars, family expectations, financial strain, and increased exposure to alcohol and other substances can stack up quickly. Over time, that weight can make the season feel heavier and harder to navigate.
Here at HCRS, we want to remind our community that those feelings are more common than people realize. As we move through the holidays, we are highlighting our Mobile Crisis program and existing video series that shows what Mobile Crisis support actually looks like in real life. Calm, compassionate, human, and available before things begin to feel unmanageable.
“The holidays can create heavy expectations to hold everything together,” says Mark Young, Statewide Director of Mobile Crisis at HCRS. “Mobile Crisis is here to help relieve some of that weight by offering steady, compassionate support when things start to feel like too much.”
HCRS Mobile Crisis teams provide free, confidential, in-person mental health and substance use support for people of all ages across Windham and Windsor Counties. Available 24/7, the program focuses on grounding, stabilization, and connection. That means meeting people where they are, whether they are experiencing an immediate crisis or simply feeling overwhelmed and unsure of next steps. 📞✨
The Mobile Crisis video series, originally released earlier this year, highlights moments many people recognize. Stress that builds quietly, substances that feel more present or harder to avoid, the exhaustion of trying to carry everything alone. The message is simple and important: Mobile Crisis is not only for emergencies. It is also a resource for early support, conversation, and connection.
“Asking for help does not mean you are failing the season,” Young adds. “It means you are noticing the challenges in front of you and choosing support.”
This season, we encourage community members to check in with themselves and with one another. Support does not have to be complicated. It can be immediate, accessible, and available even during the busiest time of year.
💚 Mobile Crisis services are available 24/7 by calling 9-8-8 or 1 (800) 622-4235. To explore HCRS’ Mobile Crisis video series, visit https://tinyurl.com/h8mc3rab
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