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The festive season is coming up, and while coming together with friends and family is often a joyous occasion for some, for others it can be a source of stress, conflict, and loneliness. This time of year can be both exciting and daunting. It is important to look after your mental health and wellbeing during this season and express yourself in the way you need.
Let's break the stigma together—talk about your feelings.
The pervasive social stigma surrounding mental health can make individuals hesitant to open up about their struggles. Sometimes, we may feel pressured to be “merry and bright” during the holidays, which can be overwhelming—or to celebrate the season in a certain way.
Limit alcohol, eat well, and keep active
This is a time of year when people often turn to alcohol more frequently, whether for celebratory reasons or as a coping mechanism. For those with a challenging relationship with food, alcohol, or other substances, this can lead to a wide range of social and mental health challenges.
Reduce high expectations and avoid comparisons
Don’t put yourself under pressure in the quest to create the ‘perfect’ Christmas. Spend only what you can afford, do something meaningful for others instead, and spend time with people who are supportive.
It’s okay to say ‘no’ and change traditions or obligations that no longer serve you. The more stressors you can remove, the more opportunity you will have to relax and enjoy the season.
Ask for help and support
We encourage you to reach out and support one another during the holidays. If this resonates with you or if you are supporting someone struggling with mental health during this period, here are some tips to help:
- Give kindness over gifts: Small gestures matter and can make a difference in someone’s day. You don’t need to spend a lot of money—simple acts of kindness can be just as impactful.
- Pay for the next person in line’s coffee, write a kind note to someone, or show appreciation for someone’s hard work.
- Get creative!
- Start a new tradition: With yourself, friends, or family, create something special that brings joy.
- Bake cookies for a neighbour, organise a picnic with loved ones, or find your own unique tradition.
- Giving feels good: Organise a charity collection, contact a local organisation to find out what’s needed this year, or volunteer your time.
- Reconnect: Call someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, or reach out to a neighbour or friend who may be spending the holiday alone.
- Focus on what you can control: Limit time spent worrying about things beyond your control. If you can’t see your loved ones this holiday, plan something you can do, like setting up a video call or sending them a thoughtful message.
- Spend time in nature: Connecting with nature has proven mental health and wellbeing benefits.
- Take a beach walk, visit a waterfall, or spend time on a farm interacting with animals.
- Be kind to yourself: Do activities that bring you peace and joy.
Remember, this Christmas season, be kind to yourself and others. Talk about your feelings, seek support when needed, and celebrate in a way that feels authentic and supportive for your wellbeing.
You are important, and you are not alone.
If you need help overcoming barriers to your goals or want to talk about feelings of anger, anxiety, or depression, contact the team at Drop of Life Psychology Clinic. Our psychologists assist people in navigating both short- and long-term challenges that may impact their lives and physical health.
If you’re facing a difficult time over the Christmas and New Year period, it’s crucial to reach out for support. It could be as simple as sending a text to a friend, making a phone call, or inviting someone over for a cup of coffee to talk about how you’re feeling.
If you are in immediate danger, call 000 for police or ambulance assistance.
There are Mental Health Support lines:
– Lifeline 13 11 14
– Lifeline Crisis text services text 0477 13 11 14
– Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
– 13 Yarn (Aboriginal and TSI crisis support line) 13 92 76
– Men's line Australia 1300 789 978
– Butterfly foundation (eating disorders) 1800 334 673
– Child protection and family support crisis care helpline 08 9223 111 or 1800 199 008
– Health direct (general health information) –1800 022 222
