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Prioritizing Mental Health and Wellness This Holiday Season

12.30.2024

As the holiday season quickly approaches, it’s important to revisit the critical topic of mental health and wellness. While this time of year often brings joy, celebration, and togetherness, it can also be a source of stress, sadness, or overwhelm for many. At FIRST in Texas, we are committed to being a reliable resource for our students, mentors, coaches, volunteers, and everyone in between. 

Fostering Open Communication 

We strive to create an environment where everyone feels safe and supported in sharing their thoughts and ideas. While our feedback channels are always open for comments and suggestions, please remember they are not intended for reporting incidents or emergencies. Your feedback helps us grow and ensures we continue to serve our community effectively. 

https://store.firstintexas.org/feedback/ 

Balancing Work and Rest 

The holiday season is a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. To support this, we’re implementing half-days and PTO opportunities for our FIRST in Texas team during the holidays. For students, mentors, and coaches, we encourage you to take this time to prioritize self-care. Rest, recharge, and focus on what you need most during this season. 

Celebrating Small Wins 

Every achievement, big or small, deserves recognition. Whether it’s completing a challenging project, reaching a personal milestone, or simply persevering through obstacles, we celebrate your successes. Together, we foster a culture of encouragement and positivity at FIRST in Texas. 

If there’s a win or a person, you’d like to give a special shoutout to, we’d love to hear about it! Please email us at marketing@firstintexas.org so we can help celebrate and share these amazing moments with our community. 

Mental Health Resources 

You are never alone, and support is always available. If you or someone you know is struggling, please consider reaching out to one of the resources below: 

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 for free and confidential support, available 24/7. 
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for immediate help from a trained counselor, available 24/7. 
  • Texas Health and Human Services Mental Health Support: Visit mentalhealthtx.org for local resources and information. 
  • The Trevor Project: For LGBTQ+ youth, call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678 for crisis support. 
  • NAMI Texas (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or visit namitexas.org. 
  • Local 2-1-1 Hotline: Dial 211 for assistance finding mental health resources in your area. 

Building a Joyful and Restorative Community 

At FIRST in Texas, we aim to create a holiday experience that not only brings joy and renewal but also leaves a lasting positive impact into the new year and beyond. Together, let’s nurture a community where everyone feels supported and empowered to thrive.