Keep your mind healthy this Christmas
The clinic
Not feeling jolly? If the festive season has left you low, there’s help at hand…
In my ever-changing role as a GP, there’s one thing that has remained consistent throughout my entire career – and, sadly, that’s the deterioration in mental health and wellbeing that many patients suffer around Christmas and New Year.
I’ve seen a variety of reasons for this – money struggles, relationship worries or the preparation pressure of the season are all common. The loss of a loved one and the consequent emotions that the season can evoke are also recurrent. It’s easy to be reminded of friendships and relationships lost or to feel like everyone else is wrapped in love and happiness and you’re all alone.
It’s also wise to remember that there doesn’t have to be an identifiable reason. Christmas with all its feel-good films, melancholy music and New Year’s resolutions provides the perfect backdrop to just feel a bit low.
Time to stop scrolling
If you are starting to become overwhelmed, try to engage in some mindfulness to readdress the balance. Limit social media time, which suggests that everyone else is living their ‘best life’ (I can assure you they likely aren’t), and indulge in some self-care. And don’t be afraid to say ‘no’. One of the biggest reasons I see for wellbeing deterioration at this time of year is people spending too much time trying to please others.
Wonders of walking
For those of you feeling a bit on the low side, taking a bracing walk in the fresh air can be good both for the mind and body. And it’s a great time of year to get creative. Why not learn a new skill – make some Christmas decorations or festive treats. You could also get involved with helping others. Although this may seem like an unnecessary effort when you’re struggling yourself, evidence s
