Coping with Christmas
Christmas can be a wonderful time of year; it gives us a chance to meet up with friends and family, indulge in festive treats and give gifts. However, it’s not always like that for everyone.
Mind has put together some tips and advice that might make the day a little easier.
Look after yourself
- Be gentle and patient with yourself. It might help to think about what is best for your wellbeing during Christmas, and prioritise what you need.
- Remind yourself that it won’t last forever. You could set a ‘start’ and ‘finish’ time for what you count as Christmas.
- Set your boundaries. Try to say no to things that aren’t helpful for you.
- Let yourself experience your own feelings. Even if they don’t match what’s going on around you, they’re still valid. For example, if you don’t feel like celebrating Christmas when everyone else does.
- Take time out. Do something to forget that it’s Christmas or distract yourself. For example, you could watch a film or read a book that’s set in the summer. Or you could try learning a new skill.
- Let yourself have the things you need. For example, if you need to take a break instead of doing an activity, or need a little bit of quiet time.
- If you can’t avoid doing something difficult, plan something for yourself afterwards to help reduce the stress or distress you might feel.
Tips for coping during Christmas
Different things can help us at different times, depending on our situation and how we’re feeling. Mind has some tips and advice on a range of topics that you may find useful during this time.
Urgent help
If you or someone you know is facing a mental health crisis and you need to speak to someone urgently:
- contact Samaritans on 116 123 924 hours a day, 365 days a year) or email [email protected]
- or contact 0800 0234 650 for the CNWL NHS Single Point of Access (SPA) on (24/7)
Author: Stewart Gillespie
Posted on: 19th December 2022
