Mental Health at Christmas

Most of the time, winter holidays are happy moments celebrated with family and friends, so people look forward to them throughout the year. However, for some people winter holidays can come with certain complications, both physically and mentally.

Society nowadays imprints the idea that the winter holidays must create feelings of joy and love. For people who struggle with depression or anxiety, the holidays may have a different impact causing an unfavourable evolution. This is happening because of the constant reminder that they must be happy during this period. Other reasons are the lack of friends, family, or money.

Symptoms of depression, including intense sadness and feelings of hopelessness ad worthlessness, can e especially difficult to deal with when everyone around you seems to be in a good mood. This can have many effects, including social isolation.

Expectations can be higher from certain people, this being very discouraging for people who struggle with anxiety. Music, lights, traffic, parties, and gatherings are all stimuli that have a much greater intensity over the holiday period. Buying gifts, taking care of the children, decorating the house, cooking, and visiting relatives can make this period exhausting and overwhelming. Not only are the winter holidays incredibly crowded, but there is also increased financial concern. Feelings of guilt can be very high, especially when people cannot buy gifts for their loved ones. Furthermore, media plays an important role in exacerbating the stress of the holiday period.

Mental health can affect anyone, destroying the precious time of winter holidays. If you know people who are alone or suffering with mental health, we are encouraging you to be supportive and try to help them. Mind.org.uk has created a list of things that can help:

• Understand that Christmas means something different to other people, and may bring up very different feelings. You might feel like you’re sharing a celebration, but they might not feel the same way.
• Let them know you understand Christmas can be difficult, and you’re there for them.
• Tell them they’re not alone. Reassure them that it’s common to find things hard at this time of year.
• Listen to what they say, and accept their feelings.
• Ask if there are things you can start, stop or continue doing. You could suggest they take time to think and come back to you.
• Ask them if there are certain things about Christmas that are difficult for them. And ask what they think might help. For example, it could be helping them plan how to exit difficult situations, avoid certain activities or deal with difficult conversations.
• Remember they aren’t trying to spoil Christmas. No one chooses to find things hard.
• Let people know you’re thinking of them. If someone you know is struggling or feeling lonely at Christmas, it might mean a lot to them to hear from you. You could give them a call, send a card or pop by to see them.
• Look after yourself. Supporting someone else can be difficult. For example, you might feel sad or conflicted. It’s ok to confide in someone about how this is affecting you. Your wellbeing matters too.

Here is some more information about Christmas and mental health: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/christmas-and-mental-health/being-supportive-to-others/[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]