The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and happiness, a time to feel the magic of the season.  For many people, this is true.  But, for others, the holidays are a time of stress and mental distress that can lead to depression, conflict, substance abuse, and other problems.

For the past several years, the Behavioral Health Alliance of Grundy County has promoted a campaign called “Blue Christmas” to encourage organizations to offer holiday-focused support groups, Blue Christmas activities, and faith-based services aimed at those who are hurting on the inside.  The goals of the campaign are to (1) increase the number and variety of Blue Christmas activities available and (2) promote public awareness of these activities and the need for them.

View the current Blue Christmas list of support groups and services: Blue Christmas Flyer Dec 2017 .

In October of each year, the BHA begins gathering information about upcoming Blue Christmas events for the purpose of promoting them.  If your organization is interested in sponsoring a Blue Christmas activity and would like to be on the BHA’s promotional list, please email [email protected] or contact Devan at 815-941-0852.  Visit the BHA website in November and December 2017 for a list of local Blue Christmas activities.