Christmas may be the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be one of the most stressful. The pressure to entertain guests, money worries and family or relationship strains leave many dreading the big day.
Three in ten Brits admit their mental health takes a complete nosedive over the Christmas period, a poll found. So with that in mind it's important to take time out to look after your own well-being.
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A Samaritans spokesperson said: "With the extra pressure that the festive season can bring, our worries and fears may seem worse this time of year. It's important you check in on yourself and look after your wellbeing.
"No matter how or if you celebrate, it is normal that this time of year can affect your mental health. You may be feeling like you aren’t enjoying the things you usually do this time of year.
"You may be worried about friends and family or other things happening in the world. You are not alone. There are all sorts of reasons you might find this time of year difficult and that’s OK."
Below we've put together some tips from the Samaritans on how to cope with the strains of the festive season and a list of organisations to speak to if you're feeling sad...
Take time for yourself
- Listen to how you are feeling. The Samaritans' self-help web app can help you track your mood and includes practical tips and techniques to help you look after your emotional health.
- Make time for something you enjoy. It could be doing something creative, watching a favourite movie, or wrapping up warm and spending time outdoors.
- Remember it’s OK to say no. Try not to overwhelm yourself, if you're not feeling up to socialising, or aren't in the festive spirit. You don't have to take part in things that might be difficult for you.
- Be gentle with yourself. Manage the festive period in a way that works for you. It's not selfish to prioritise your wellbeing – try not to feel guilty about this. Many people are struggling financially, this year particularly. Try not to put pressure on yourself and remember that quality time is the best gift of all. If you find that you’re enjoying yourself, know that this is OK and not something you should feel guilty about either.
Manage your social media
- Try to avoid comparing yourself to others. Social media can be difficult over Christmas. Try not to compare your experiences to what you see others doing online.
- Take a break. It's OK to log off. If you’re active online, making time for other activities can help you to take a break from the news or social media. If you find it hard to stay offline, try switching off your notifications or leaving your phone in another room.
- Choose what you consume. There can be a lot of upsetting news during the festive period, and it can feel overwhelming at times. Here are some practical tips if you find yourself 'doomscrolling' social media for tips on how to make your social media a more positive space.
Plan ahead
- Take time to work out what you're feeling. Think about the things that you might find difficult about this time of year. Are there things you can do that might help you cope? Are there things it would be helpful for you to avoid? Try to identify what you can and cannot change about things that are troubling you. Writing these down or sharing your concerns with someone you trust can be a helpful step.
- Set boundaries. If you can, try to have conversations with friends or family about everyone's expectations of any celebrations well in advance. Be honest about how you want to spend the holidays.
- Structure your days. Sitting on your sofa, wrapped up in a blanket, watching TV can be comforting, but try to schedule some other activities. Whether it's baking your favourite treat, volunteering at a local charity, or finally crossing that DIY task off your to-do list, give some purpose to your days. If you can, try to get outside at least once a day, even if it's just for a brief walk.
- Look back with kindness. Many people find themselves reflecting on the past year during the festive period, focusing on what they haven't achieved. Be kind to yourself. Focus on what you have achieved, and plan something to look forward to.
- Be open to possibility. You don't have to create New Year's resolutions. Try not to put pressure on yourself by setting strict or unrealistic goals. It's OK to live day-to-day and be open to new possibilities.
Reach out
- Spend time with loved ones when you feel able. Try not to isolate yourself all season; being around others may be helpful. Surround yourself with people you love and trust but know that it's OK to put yourself first and say no if you're not feeling up to it.
- Be honest about how you're feeling. It can be hard to reach out if the people around you seem happy when you don't. We'd encourage you to try talking to a trusted friend or family member. Talking about how you’re feeling can help put things into perspective and may help you feel more positive.
Organisations to speak to for mental health help and support
Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Trust
Free mental health helpline open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - 0800 953 0285
Age UK
Information and support for older people - 0800 678 1602 or ageuk.org.uk
Beat
Offers information and advice on eating disorders, and runs a supportive online community - 0808 801 0677 or beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
Provides listening services, information and support for anyone who needs to talk, including a web chat - 0800 58 58 58 or thecalmzone.net
Combat Stress
Treatment and support for armed forces veterans who have mental health problems -0800 1381 619 or combatstress.org.uk
The Compassionate Friends
Provides support to bereaved families after the death of a child - 0345 123 2304 or tcf.org.uk
Cruse Bereavement Care
Information and support after a bereavement - 0808 808 1677 or cruse.org.uk
LGBT Foundation
Advice, support and information for people identifying as LGBTQ+ - 0345 3 30 30 30 or lgbt.foundation
Mind
Charity which provides advice and support to anyone experiencing mental health issues - 0300 123 3393 or mind.org.uk
MoneyHelper
Provides free and impartial money advice - 0800 138 7777 or moneyhelper.org.uk
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Free 24-hour helpline for women who have experienced domestic abuse and violence, with all female advisors - 0808 2000 247 or nationaldahelpline.org.uk
Relate
Provides help and support with relationships, including counselling and telephone support - relate.org.uk
Samaritans
Samaritans are open 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk. You can visit some Samaritans branches in person - 116 123
Shout
Confidential 24/7 text service offering support if you're in crisis and need immediate help - 85258 (text SHOUT) or giveusashout.org
The Silver Line
Provides support, information, friendship and advice for older people (over 55) who may feel lonely or isolated - 0800 4 70 80 90 or
Stand Alone
Charity supporting adults who are estranged from their family - standalone.org.uk
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS)
Emotional and practical support and local groups for anyone bereaved or affected by suicide - uk-sobs.org.uk
Tommy's
Information and support for people affected by stillbirth, miscarriage and premature birth - tommys.org
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