The holidays are almost upon us!
Christmas…
Parties…
Exchanging gifts with loved ones…
And above all, spending time with family and loved ones.
But holidays can also be a source of anxiety for some people. They find themselves isolated emotionally, and financially stressed. Parliament.uk reports that “approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year.” According to the American Psychological Association website (24 October 2023), “38% of people surveyed said their stress increased during the holiday season.”
If you are facing a potentially stressful holiday season, take comfort in knowing there are steps you can take to manage your days.
Be intentional about making human contact
Plan to be with a friend or relative who you get along with. Invite them for Christmas lunch or alternatively make the visit to their house. If finances allow, take yourself out to a local resort where you will be able to take part in group activities. Volunteering is also a great way to feel part of the community and also give back.
Keep things real financially
Don’t feel guilty or stressed if money is short. Avoid agonising over what could be done. Instead plan well ahead and work within your limits. Work with what you have to give yourself and loved ones a warm and memorable Christmas without getting into debt.
Start your shopping early
If you buy early you avoid the stress of crowded shops. You also tick off your boxes at a steady, manageable pace. You can monitor your finances and make adjustments accordingly before the pressure and emotional anguish of last minute shopping. Also as you buy, bear in mind if you are stretched financially you don’t have to buy anything expensive. A simple thing like making dinner for family and friends can be an impactful way to express your love. They will certainly enjoy and remember it for years to come.
Avoid dwelling on previous painful holidays
Don’t spend time thinking about past disastrous holidays. All it does is bring up past hurts and before you know it you’re hurtling down a slippery slope of sadness and depression. Life is full of weird occurrences. Those things happened and unfortunately cannot be changed. Train your mind to turn away from such and live in the moment instead.
Give yourself some tender care
Be kind to yourself. Spoil yourself. Rest. Do some self-care. Read a book. Take things really easy. That body and mind have been battered the whole year. They need some care. It’s time to suspend your strict daily routines and do pretty much what you like with your time. It’s not long before you get back to the daily grind so relish the leisure time.
Reach out for help if you feel overwhelmed
If you feel yourself drowning in anxiety, depression, sadness or loneliness; and whether you are alone or with other people, do not hesitate to ask for help. There is always someone on the other side waiting for your call.
For prompt assistance you can contact:
1) Samaritans – 24 hour emotional support is available.
Call 116 123 – FREE or email jo@samaritans.org.uk
2) Shout – confidential support for anxiety, stress, loneliness, and other challenges.
Text SHOUT 85258 – FREE
3) Mental Health Foundation UK website has more organisations that provide help.
4) You can also talk to your GP.
Do not struggle alone this holiday season. Help is available. All you have to do is reach out.
Article by: Monika Mutuma