You turn on the TV and Christmas adverts are on…you see people gathered around a table, smiling, laughing and joking around…
They’re having a great time…you’re told this is what Christmas should look like…and this makes you feel pressured, anxious and often lonely.
Don’t feel ashamed or guilty…Christmas is an incredibly busy and emotional period, and it’s important that we look after ourselves.
Don’t ignore it
If you feel like this, it’s very important to realise that you’re not the only one feeling this way and to know there’s support out there.
The Jo Cox Loneliness commission recently found out that millions of us feel lonely, some or all of the time – but particularly at Christmas.
If you need to talk, the Samaritans have a free phone number that you can call from any phone: 116 123.
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And it’s not just over the Christmas period – you can call them 24/7, 365 days of the year!
Talking things through can often help 🙂
Here’s a few tips to help you stay on top of your mental health…
• If you’re feeling anxious, go to parties and social events early-on before they get too busy (and maybe take a friend along for support).
• Even though it’s Christmas, keep doing your normal routines that help you stay well – this could be a morning run, or maybe some mindfulness?
• Poor nutrition can increase symptoms – stay well hydrated and eat regularly throughout the day.
Look out for others…
Even if you’re feeling alright, those around you mightn’t be.
If someone you know is quiet or withdrawn, don’t label them a ‘party pooper’ – ask them if they’re OK and what you could do to help them enjoy the festivities more.
But if they’re too anxious to go out at all, pop round and take them some mince pies – we’re sure they’d appreciate it.
These are just a couple of tips that can help you enjoy Christmas more. There’s more available on the Mind website.
And don’t forget, if you need to talk, you can call the Samaritans any time of the day on 116 123.
Stay well this Christmas 🙂
