Health
For some of us, Christmas can be a lonely time.
This is why it’s so important to look after your mental health. Mind have shared some festive tips on looking after yourself this season.
• For more advice, visit: mind.org.uk
How can Christmas affect my mental health?
Christmas can put a lot of pressure on us. Mind says it may make you feel left out or alone, stressed about creating the ‘perfect’ Christmas, or it may trigger an existing mental health problem.
What’s more, with the cost-of-living crisis not slowing down, a lot of us may be struggling with the finances of the big day.
If you are going through a break-up, bereavement or perhaps you don’t have many loves ones, Christmas can feel lonely.
However, if you are struggling, do not struggle alone. You should tell a loved one or speak to your health care provider.
It sounds cliché, but talking can help lift a burden, and ensure that others know you need support measures in place.
How can I cope at Christmas?
Mind have shared their top tips for coping during the festivities:
• Be gentle and patient with yourself. Think about what is best for your well-being and prioritise what you need.
• Remind yourself 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.
• 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 quiet time.
• If you can’t avoid doing some
