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The holiday season can be a challenging time for many people. While it is often associated with celebration, time with loved ones and reflection, it can also heighten feelings of loneliness, family tension, grief, overwhelming stress and financial pressure. For some, these emotions can become difficult to manage, particularly during the busy Christmas and New Year period.

If you are feeling distressed, overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health, it is important to know that free, confidential support is available locally in Hawkesbury throughout the holiday season.

Hawkesbury’ s Medicare Mental Health Centre( MMHC) is a free service funded by the Australian Government and delivered by Neami National. The centre provides walk-in

support focused on social and emotional wellbeing and is open to everyone in the community. No referral is required, and you do not need to be an Australian citizen or have a Medicare card to access support.

The Hawkesbury MMHC is located at 11 – 12 Musson Lane, Richmond, and will remain open across the holiday period. Opening hours are:

• Thursday and Saturday: 1pm – 7pm

• Monday to Wednesday and Friday: 1pm – 5pm

• Public holidays: 1pm – 7pm

Peter Warden, Director of Mental Health Hubs at Neami National, said the holiday season can place extra pressure on people already managing mental health challenges.

“ Whether it’ s loneliness, family stress, grief or financial pressure, this time of year can be particularly difficult,” he said.“ What’ s important to remember is that support is available and accessible. Our services remain open throughout the holiday period, and it’ s as simple as a phone call or walking through our doors.”

For those unable to attend in person, the Medicare Mental Health phone service also offers free weekday support.

Hawkesbury’ s Medicare Mental Health Centre( MMHC) is a free service. The centre provides walk-in support focused on social and emotional wellbeing and is open to everyone in the community. No referral is required, and you do not need to be an Australian citizen or have a Medicare card to access support.

Call 1800 595 212, Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm( excluding weekends and public holidays).

No one needs to face the holiday season alone, and help is available when it’ s needed most.