What to Do If You Need Help During the Holidays: A Step-by-Step Guide

The holiday season can be a beautiful time of connection — but for many survivors of sexual violence and trauma, it can also be overwhelming, triggering, or unsafe. If you're experiencing fear, uncertainty, or you simply need support, you are not alone. The Turning Point is here for you, even during the busiest time of the year.

Below is a calm, simple, 7-step guide to help you navigate a difficult moment and reach the support you deserve.

Step 1: Pause and Ground Yourself

When you feel overwhelmed, afraid, or triggered, start by taking a slow breath. Place your feet on the floor. Notice what’s around you.

Even 10 seconds of grounding can give you enough mental clarity to take the next step. Try this simple grounding technique:

• Name 5 things you can see

• 4 things you can touch

• 3 things you can hear

• 2 things you can smell

• 1 thing you can taste

You are allowed to take a moment for yourself.

Step 2: Get to a Safe Space

Your safety matters more than anything else.

If you’re at a gathering, in a home that feels unsafe, or around someone causing you distress:

• Step outside

• Move to a bathroom

• Sit in your locked car

• Go to a neighbor or trusted friend’s home

• If necessary, leave the location entirely

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it likely is.

Step 3: Reach Out to Someone You Trust

You don’t have to handle this alone.

Choose someone who makes you feel steady — a friend, partner, relative, coworker, or faith leader. You can say something simple like:

• “I need someone to talk to.”

• “I’m not okay right now.”

• “Can you stay on the phone with me for a minute?”

If you don’t have someone safe to call, The Turning Point will always be that support for you.

Step 4: Contact a Confidential Crisis Resource

Help is available 24/7, including holidays, weekends, and late nights.

The Turning Point 24-Hour Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline

📞 1-800-886-7273Trained advocates are ready to listen, support, and guide you — no judgment, no pressure, and completely confidential.

You can call for:

• Immediate emotional support

• Help creating a safety plan

• Guidance after an assault

• Questions about medical care or reporting

• Validation and someone who believes you

You matter, and you deserve support right when you need it.

Step 5: Know Your Options for Medical Care

If there has been a recent assault (usually within 120 hours / 5 days), you may choose to receive a sexual assault exam from a trained nurse.

During the holidays, hospitals may be busier, but you still have the right to:

• A forensic exam

• A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE)

• An advocate from The Turning Point to be present with you

• Address medical concerns even if you don’t want evidence collected

You get to choose what feels right for you — not anyone else.

Step 6: Create a Small, Personalized Safety Plan

A safety plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s simply a practical roadmap you can use if things escalate.

Your safety plan can include:

• People you can call

• A safe place you can go

• A code word to text a friend if you need help

• Extra cash, keys, or important documents accessible

• A plan for leaving a gathering early if you feel unsafe

If you want help making one, Turning Point advocates are trained in building customized safety plans with you.

Step 7: Follow Up with Continued Support

The holidays end — but your healing journey doesn’t have to end with them.

After a crisis or triggering moment, consider reaching out to:

• The Turning Point’s counseling services

• Support groups

• Advocacy programs

• Long-term therapy referrals

• Legal resources if needed

Support is not just for emergencies. You deserve care, recovery, and community every day of the year.

The Turning Point Is Here for You

No matter what you're facing this holiday season, you don’t have to face it alone.We believe you. We support you. And we’re here — 24/7.

📞 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 1-800-886-7273

🌐 Website: theturningpoint.org

📍 Services Available: Advocacy, counseling, education, crisis support, hospital accompaniment, and more.