Mental Health and Wellbeing tips for Surviving this Christmas.
Be ok to make new traditions.
Christmas is often painted as a time of fun, celebration, and togetherness. But we also know that Christmas slash the holiday season (and all that comes with it) can be a tough time for some. So we put together some ideas, tips and maybe just some reminders to help you through this Silly Season. Mental health tips for your Christmas if you will.
Let me know if there is anything I have missed, or if there is anything else that you do to take care of your wellbeing across the Christmas period.
First and foremost, take care of YOU!
It’s a time where the pressures can feel heavy and deeper than usual. The events are back to back, the to do list grows and your mental healthy can quickly take a back seat. Here’s some steps to keep you on track…
You don’t need to spend money on gifts/food/outings that you can’t afford. Remember that you can buy second hand, or get creative and *make* a present for your loved ones.
Set boundaries for yourself. And stick to them (LOL) You don’t have to attend every event and catch up you are invited to! It’s ok to catch up with people after Christmas too.
Schedule some alone time, if that’s what you need. Take your walk, read your book, do your meditation. Do what it is that supports you.
Have your ‘safe person’ on speed dial. That is the person you can talk to, vent to or seek reassurance from, if you need. If things are getting too much, there has been another stray comment from that long lost Aunt or Uncle, or you really need to have a laugh, reach out to your safe person.
Don’t be harsh on yourself if you can’t maintain your usual routines. Plan your non-negotiables and be flexible with the rest. It’s ok to switch off, to rest, to miss a gym session, or a phone call.
Christmas can be hard if you’re missing someone. Feelings of grief, loss and loneliness can be amplified. The feelings can creep up on you slowly or hit you quickly smack bang in the face. Be mindful of those feelings.
· If a loved one has passed away, you might consider lighting a candle in their memory and honour.
You could print a photo, or save it on your phone, to have close by.
Start a new Christmas tradition in their honour. Consider the things you did together, what might they have done if they were here. What would have made you laugh or enjoy the time together?
You could write a letter noting what you might say to them if they were here. What would you be discussing, what updates do you have for them?
If you can’t be in person with your loved ones, schedule a time in advance where you can call or video call one another. Keep in contact where you can. We’re so lucky with the power of technology these days, lets use it for good!
Organise to volunteer with a local charity that supports others on and around Christmas day. It’ll honestly make your heart and soul happy!
Be comfortable being you. Eat. The. Food.
Don’t be afraid to have 3 servings of Christmas lunch, followed by two desserts! I promise you, relaxing on your usual diet for a few days, will not send you off the rails. Allow yourself to enjoy the treats and delicious food.
Wear the bathers, the shorts, the budgie smugglers! You deserve to be cool and to swim too!
Get in the photo. Even if you’re still in your pyjamas, have had to unbutton your pants because of point 1 or your make up isn’t right. One day you or your loved ones might regret not having that picture. You’re perfect and worthy as you are.
Have a drink, but be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Don't use alcohol as a coping mechanism. Balance your alcoholic drinks with your non-alcoholic ones. And now days we are spoilt for choice with lots of delicious non-alcoholic choices!
Reach out for support.
Even with all your best intentions to take care of you, it can sometimes still feel extremely overwhelming. Reach out for support if you need. If you’re already seeing a therapist or engaged with a support service, chat with them in advance. Ask them to help you make your own support plan. Who can you reach out to on the public holidays? Schedule your next appointment as soon as you can. And maybe save these numbers for just in case.
LifeLine - 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 699 467
13Yarn - 13 92 76
1800Respect - 1800 737 732
Men’s Helpline - 1300 78 99 78
No matter how you choose to acknowledge or celebrate Christmas, I hope that you have an enjoyable and safe time. Do what feels right for you and don’t be afraid to make your own traditions.
Merry Christmas,
Cassandra.