The end of the year is fast approaching, and this will be an opportunity to celebrate the year that’s been and look forward to 2022. These top five tips could be helpful in maintaining your mental health over the silly season.
1. Acknowledge your feelings.
The holiday season looks different for everyone. Each year the Christmas periodis a joyous occasion for many – and the most challenging time of the year for many others. Whether you’re feeling excited, sad, exhausted, hopeful, or anxious for Christmas, it’s important to acknowledge and accept whatever you are feeling. No matter what you’re feeling, try to accept this without judgement. This can help to make sense of our experience and actions.
2. Make space for grief and loss.
Feelings of grief and loss can be particularly strong around special occasions like Christmas. If you’re keenly feeling the loss of a loved one or a pet, the breakdown of a relationship, the loss of your job, know that this is a natural reaction and part of the healing process.
Some of the following might be helpful:
- Honour your loss in whatever way feels right to you
- Share your feelings with someone or try journalling
- Join a support group or find a counsellor
3. Take time for yourself
Sometimes the desire to make sure everyone else is happy can be overwhelming. Even if you’re planning the most important event of the year, put a bit of time aside to look after yourself. This could be as simple as taking a nice warm bath, getting out of the house for an hour for coffee, or spending some time reading a favourite book. A little time out could be all that you need to keep your mental health on track over Christmas.
4. Stick to a budget that works for you.
It’s always tempting to buy the biggest gifts, and there can be pressure to spend more than you can afford. It can be really helpful to create a budget to see what fits within your financial limits. You could try a ‘Secret Santa’ system to make sure everyone is included while providing a spending limit. If you need help with your budgeting, a financial counsellor could be useful to talk to.
5. Remember that you’re not alone.
No matter what you’re feeling, if you’re finding Christmas overwhelming there is support available. Whether it’s 3am on Christmas Day, or late at night on New Year’s Eve, Lifeline is ready to listen and support you.
Reach out for help if you need it by calling 13 11 14 anytime.
OR you can text Lifeline on 0477 13 11 14 (midday-midnight).
You can also access ongoing support through Lifeline Northern Beaches.
Visit www.lifelinenb.org.au/get-help for information about low-cost counselling, support groups, and free financial counselling. Call 9949 5522 to make an appointment.