Winter Wellness: Supporting Mental Health for Older Adults and Caregivers Through Certified Peer Suppor

Aging adults in recovery face unique challenges that can become more intense during the holiday season. While holidays are often portrayed as joyful and celebratory, they can also bring stress, loneliness, grief, and reminders of past struggles.

For older adults navigating recovery from substance use or mental health challenges, this time of year can test emotional resilience and coping skills. Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS) play a vital role in supporting aging adults through these challenges by offering understanding, connection, and practical support rooted in lived experience. 

As people age, they may experience life changes such as retirement, declining health, loss of loved ones, reduced income, or social isolation, which can affect recovery. During the holiday season, these challenges may intensify, especially for older adults who live alone or lack consistent social support. Social gatherings may involve substances that conflict with their recovery goals, while colder weather and shorter days can contribute to seasonal depression. Stigma may further discourage older adults from seeking help when expectations emphasize happiness and celebration.

Recognizing the need for recovery supports that also address aging-related issues, the North Carolina Peer Support Program and the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services (DMH/DD/SUS) launched the Certified Older Adult Peer Support (COAPS) Training. This Training is available to NC Certified Peer Support Specialists and others working with aging adults in recovery settings, providing education on how recovery needs and experiences may change with age. Training opportunities and program information are available through the DMH/DD/SUS Peer Support Engagement webpage and the North Carolina Peer Support Programs webpage.  

If you or someone you care for is in need of immediate assistance, the following resources are available: 

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 support. Services include crisis counseling, emotional support, and guidance for substance use concerns. 

• NC Peer Warmline: 1-855-PEERS-NC (1-855-733-7762) is a free, confidential number you can call night or day to talk with someone who understands. You will be connected to someone who has personal experience with mental health or substance use disorders. You do not need to be in crisis to talk to someone. 

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