Even in years where've gone without a global pandemic, the Christmas season can be a stressful time for some. In a year unlike any other most of us have lived through, it became even more stressful. 

Envision Counseling and Support Centre reported even more people than usual needing their services over the holidays this past year. While they take some time off around Christmas, they become very busy almost as soon as they return. 

"We are closed between Christmas and New Years' annually," said Envision Counseling executive director Christa Daku. "Before Christmas and following up after we are fairly busy. It's been really, really busy since we reopened."

Envision offers counselling in-person and over the phone, and both have seen an increase in demand since they reopened their office earlier this week. As more and more people reach out for help, Envision finds themselves of two minds about it. 

"It's a two-sided coin for us as an organization," Daku said. "We're grateful that people feel safe enough to reach out to us for support, but on the other side, it's unfortunate that people are experiencing difficulties."

Daku described the first couple of days of the week as "phenomenally busy" and added they'd had 30 calls for services on Monday and Tuesday alone. This is higher by far than what they normally see, and it doesn't take much imagination to guess the reason why that might be. 

"I think the isolation is definitely playing out," said Daku. "I think the fear of the pandemic and of the unknown really weighs on people, and that's natural. It brings out other things that they may have experienced in their life that may be surfacing. It's a good thing and a healthy, positive step to be reaching out to somebody."

Envision hosts walk-in counselling in Weyburn on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Salvation Army for people who need immediate support, and Daku recommended that avenue right now for those who need support because many of their other avenues are booked up. They also have an outreach program for seniors. 

"That program is all about breaking the isolation," said Daku. "To have that friendly ear, that counsellor, that support, to be able to talk through some worries and some challenges that people are experiencing is really helpful for our area."

Daku added they've seen more and more people seek counselling virtually or over the phone, and they expect that will continue into the year.