The key to surviving the holidays is to anticipate any situations that might arise have a plan in place for resources to to turn to. Here are some local and national resources for your Holiday Survival Plans.
24/7 Sexual Assault Crisis Helpline
(407) 500-HEAL – The VSC Master’s level Victim Advocates are always available to help you even on holidays. You can access immediate crisis counseling or forensic evidence collection any day of the year at any time.
Financial Help
2-1-1 United Way: In Central Florida your first stop for local resources is 2-1-1 through United Way. If you are unsure of who to call for help with financial assistance, where to go for emergency shelters, or simply unsure who can help with your circumstances they are a great connection. You can call or text 2-1-1, just text your zip code to 898-211 (txt211).
Addiction
Alcoholics Anonymous: The support of others can play a critical role in your holiday survival plan, if you are a member of Alcoholics Anonymous be sure to check out their website in advance for meetings in the areas you may be traveling to during the holidays.
Narcotics Anonymous: If you are trying to live a drug free life, consider turning to Narcotics Anonymous. They have local meetings in Orlando you can attend during the holidays as part of your holiday survival plan, or you can utilize their 24/7 Helpline 407-425-5157.
Gamblers Anonymous: It can be tempting to indulge in vices, but they offer local meetings around the country in case you are traveling and a helpline 855-2CALLGA.
Eating Disorders
For those who struggle with eating disorders the holidays can be a big struggle, consider having the National Eating Disorder Association helpline in your phone for times of crisis. They have limited hours, but are an available resource. 1-800-931-2237.
Suicide
Lifeline: You are never alone, VSC is always here for you, and there are so many community and national partners to provide support and help. Another important number in our holiday support plan is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255.
Warm Lines
CLEAR Warm line: Open from 4 – 10 p.m. The CLEAR Warm Line is for individuals with a mental illness who want to talk with someone who shares personal experience coping with mental health issues. When you need someone to listen or need to feel heard, please call. We are here for you without judgment to provide support! Call 1-800-945-1355.
Holiday Plans
Orlando Rescue Mission: If you need a place to go for a warm meal or perhaps having alternative plans for the holiday would help you get through the day, consider the Orlando Rescue Mission. They serve three hot meals a day to the Orlando community, and you can either attend for a meal if you need one, or make it part of your holiday survival plan to serve others.
