GT Crisis Center Offers Help During its First Holiday Season

GT Crisis Center Offers Help During its First Holiday Season 
Those struggling during the holidays have 24/7 access to mental health resources.
 
There is now a new resource for those in Northern Michigan silently struggling with stress, loneliness, or loss this holiday season as the Grand Traverse Mental Health Crisis and Access Center (Crisis Center) welcomes people 24/7. 
 
According to research, 89% of U.S. adults report stress during the holidays, with 41% feeling an increase in stress (American Psychological Association), while 66% of people say they experience sadness or loneliness (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
 
“Travel, social obligations, finances, and the pressure to create a ‘perfect’ holiday can create a lot of stress and anxiety for people,” said Terri Lacroix Kelty, Munson Healthcare Executive Director of Behavioral Health. “Strained relationships or loss of a loved one are often felt more deeply this time of year which is why we traditionally see an increase in mental health crisis.”
 
Some studies cite this to be even more prevalent in the week following a holiday, indicating a 10-15% increase in behavioral health related Emergency Room visits. Many of the people who may have previously sought care in an ER, can now receive care at the Crisis Center, which is open 24/7 and also includes a Psychiatric Urgent Care open Monday-Friday, 8-5pm.
 
“We’ve seen a steady increase in visits since opening 24/7 in July and that trend seems to be rising as the holidays approach,” said Micheal Corby, Crisis Center Behavioral Health Director. “We want to encourage anyone experiencing a mental health crisis to come to The Center so we can either provide care directly or connect them with the level of care they need.”
 
While an Emergency Department is the most appropriate setting if there is an immediate risk to life due to disorientation, aggression, or serious medical concern, The Crisis Center can serve people with acute behavioral health needs that are not immediately life-threatening, which can include:

• Imminent risk of harm to others (e.g., threats with a clear plan and intent).
• Escalating symptoms of depression, anxiety, or mania without immediate danger.
• Suicidal ideation with or without a plan and intent.
• Behavioral changes that are concerning but do not pose an immediate safety risk.
• Need for timely medication adjustments, crisis intervention, or short-term stabilization.

• Reaching Out with Compassion - A simple text, call, or invite can help someone feel less alone.
• Listening Without Judgment - Validate feelings with phrases like “That sounds really hard,” or “I’m here for you.”
• Offering Practical Help - Help with errands, childcare, or meal prep to reduce stress.
• Encouraging Self-Care - Suggest breaks, exercise, mindfulness, and healthy routines.
• Setting Realistic Expectations - Remind them it’s okay if the holidays aren’t “perfect.”
• Supporting in Seeking Professional Help when symptoms seem severe or persistent.