Carol Zuniga, MS, LLP, CEO of Hegira Health, Inc.
December 2024
Picture a beautifully decorated home with trees and lights, filled with people, young and old, exuberant, dressed in their holiday plaids, velvets and cozy sweaters, half of them arm in standing around the piano singing carols and the others sitting cozily around the hearth exchanging perfectly wrapped, perfect gifts.
Sound like your house? Mine neither. And we are not alone. A 2023 survey conducted by Value Penguin, showed that 61% of Americans felt sad or lonely during the holiday season. Nearly 40% wished they could skip it altogether.
While the holiday season is filled with joy for many, for others whose social outlets are limited, whose finances are tight, are grieving a loss or struggling in a relationship, the holiday season’s expectations of togetherness can make coping with loneliness that much more difficult.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with mental health or substance use issues contact Hegira Health call 734-458-4601 or visit www.hegirahealth.org.
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About the author
Carol Zuniga, MS, LLP, CEO of Hegira Health, Inc. is a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years’ experience in the healthcare industry. Hegira Health, Inc., is a leading provider of behavioral healthcare services with clinic locations in Western Wayne and the Downriver communities. Visit www.hegirahealth.org.