"It's a higher chance for substance abuse including alcohol and drugs," said Jim Tadman, chief deputy at the Polk County Sheriff's Department. "Families are coming home from great distances to get together so everybody's taking the time. And during those times it's a higher chance for substance abuse including alcohol and drugs."
WDAY News has learned opioids, meth, marijuana, and DUI's are all common busts for deputies in Polk County.
"It's a community problem and we need to all work together to get this taken care of."
Anxiety and depression can be at the root of the problem, according to mental health counselors.
"People that haven't gotten together for a while there's financial issues for many of us wanting to do well for our kids and relatives on limited means,” said Janet Denison, Chief Clinical Officer at the Northwestern Mental Health Center in Crookston.
Between Christmas shopping and holiday parties, your family members may feel strained.
Counselors recommend you look for a few signs.
"Trouble sleeping, sleeping too much, tearfulness, increased anxiety, increased chemical use," said Denison.
Northwestern Minnesota has a crisis line available for anyone who needs help. The phone number is 1-800-282-5005.
A call that could save a life.
"Depression and anxiety really grows best in isolation. That's what we want to prevent," said Denison.
