Taking Care Of Mental Health During The Holiday Season

Holidays can be a tough time for many. Despite it being a festive celebratory season, many may struggle due to increased loneliness, isolation, stress and anxiety. Expectations for perfect celebrations paired with a feeling of missing out can compound pre-existing issues. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and get help where possible.

The holiday season can prove difficult for a number of reasons. Pressure to spend money on gifts, food, travel and gatherings can create financial strain. A comparison to the celebrations of others can increase loneliness.

Grief especially can be amplified due to triggers. This is important acknowledge given the recent tragic events at Bondi and the mourning that many members of the community are still going through.

Here are some ways to look after your mental health this holiday season.

Strategies

Finding Community:

Establishing some kind of community or social connection can be the best way to cope with feelings of loneliness and isolation during the holiday period. Connecting with friends and family where possible through phone calls and virtual meetings is a great way to stay in touch when distance proves challenging. Volunteering in community events tied to the holiday period is also a great way to meet others and find fulfilment in doing work with others. Consider social groups, community events and positive online forums as a means of finding connection

Managing Finances:

Set a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending. There are gifts that can be incredibly thoughtful and not expensive. Catering unique and fun gifts to people and their passions and interests is a great way to maintain festive cheer whilst also not breaking the bank. Stick to lists to maintain budgets and involve impulse buying. Also consider setting boundaries about spending to ensure no one is put under strain to provide for one another.

Managing Expectations:

During the celebratory season, striving for perfection and enforcing a comparison to whats shown in media can only amplify stress and feelings of loneliness. It's important to distinguish from the ideal and perfect representations of whats shown on social media and in film and TV. Remember that family does not have to be blood-related and that connection can be found in friends and community. Focus more on enjoyable moments than striving for overall perfection.

Overall Tips for Wellbeing:

There are many simple things that can be done to maintain wellbeing. These include:

• Using planners and calendars to stay organised
• Reducing excessive screentime, especially on social media
• Be open to changes in routines and expectations, being flexible can open the door to new positive experiences
• Document thoughts and feelings in a journal so that you can approach them with greater clarity
• Employ mindfulness techniques such as meditation
• Limit self-pressure and allow time to unwind where possible

It is important to know that you are not alone in your struggles during this holiday season. There are many means of seeking support. The below is a list of numbers for various support groups and hotlines.

Lifeline (13 11 14)
Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network ((07) 4945 2858)
Queensland Mental Health Services (1300 642 255)

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There are many people in the community that you can reach out to if you feel lonely or sad this Christmas. Call Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network ((07) 4945 2858) to connect with people who can help

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