Written by: Joanne Docherty, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Christmas. A word that used to fill me with dread. A genuine sinking feeling in my stomach. I never looked forward to it. Every year I would travel somewhere hot, usually to a country that didn't celebrate it and lie on a beach on Christmas Day. One year, I took a treacherous and quite frankly ridiculous motorbike ride down the swooping coastlines of Vietnam. Anything to avoid the usual "Christmas cheer".
Until I had my own family, Christmas was just another reminder that I was different. Since having a daughter in 2021, I have been able to get excited about the season and can appreciate what a beautiful time it is, but I don't forget those old feelings. Christmas is a difficult, lonely and often stressful period for many people.
Impact of Christmas on Mental Health
For some, the festive season brings loneliness, stress or depression. This is due to many reasons, such as financial pressures, family struggles or missing loved ones.
Research has shown that Christmas can exacerbate mental health issues like depression and anxiety. This is particularly true for individuals who already suffer from mental health issues, as the festivities can make them feel even more isolated. It can also trigger sadness due to being reminded of past experiences or losses.
For some people, Christmas can bring about loneliness due to family members not being around or an inability to attend gatherings. For those with family members suffering from mental health issues, the festive season can also be difficult due to the inability to celebrate or participate in activities fully.
Furthermore, financial pressures associated with Christmas can cause significant stress for many people. During this period, people may spend more money than usual which can put additional strain on finances. This can lead to guilt and anxiety around money, worsening mental health issues.
People need to remember that if they struggle during this time, help is available. It's also important to be mindful of your mental health and reach out to support networks and services if needed. Taking care of yourself is the best way to ensure a happy and healthy festive season.
How to Cope with Poor Mental Health over Christmas
Talk to someone
Talking to a friend, family member, or professional can help you work through complicated feelings. However, you don't have to be alone in this, and it's essential to build a support network around you.
Simply understanding and acknowledging how you're feeling can often make a difference as well. It's important to practice self-compassion and remember that it is okay not always to feel perfect.
Set boundaries
Take some time for yourself and create space where possible. Say 'no' to social events or activities if it's too much for you. Everyone needs time to rest and recharge – make sure you take the time to do so. Trying to do too much and saying 'yes' to everything can lead to feelings of overwhelm. Feel free to take some time just for yourself.
Take care of your health
It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the festive period. Ensure you eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. Avoid using alcohol and drugs to numb emotions or feelings of loneliness. This can make it even harder to manage your mental health in the long run because of the potential for addiction.
Focus on the positives
Christmas can also be a time of joy and happiness. Take time to focus on the positive aspects, such as catching up with family or friends, giving or receiving gifts and participating in fun activities. This doesn't mean ignoring your feelings – but it does help to find the good in each day. So make sure you appreciate these moments and focus on the present.
Get busy
If you feel overwhelmed, take some time to do activities that make you feel good. This can be anything from walking, yoga, reading a book, or watching your favourite show. Doing something productive can also help – like picking up a hobby or getting involved with volunteer work. It's essential to keep your mind occupied and focused on something positive. When the mind is entertained, it's easier to manage complex thoughts and emotions. Doing something new or exciting can be a great distraction during this period.
Accept that you may feel down at times
It’s normal to experience highs and lows during the festive season, even if you don’t have an existing mental health condition. Everyone has different circumstances, and it's essential to accept that you may have some days when your mental health is not at its best. Remember to be kind to yourself and give yourself the time and space you need.
Manage relationships
Interactions with family and friends can be tricky during the festive season. Remember to focus on understanding and communication rather than blame or criticism. Be mindful of how you feel around specific individuals, and don't be afraid to take a break if necessary. It is better to step away for a while than get into an argument or difficult situation.
Plan ahead
Plan for Christmas and make sure you are prepared. A plan will give you structure and focus, which can be beneficial during this time. Think about what activities or events you would like to participate in and which you may need to avoid. This will help limit the number of surprises that come up over the festive season and provide a sense of control.
Get support
Remember, when you're feeling overwhelmed this holiday season, help is available. Taking care of yourself and getting the proper support can make all the difference to your mental health and overall wellbeing. With a bit of preparation, you can ensure a happy and healthy festive period. It is best to get the support you need before things become too difficult – don’t wait until it feels like things are out of control.
Final Thoughts
Despite Christmas often being a difficult time for many people, it is possible to take steps to cope during this period. It's essential to ensure you reach out for help and take time for yourself. Remember that Christmas is only one day, and the most important thing is to take care of your mental health during this festive season.
Maintaining good mental health can be challenging around the holidays, but it doesn't have to be complicated. With the proper support and self-care, you can ensure you're in an excellent place to enjoy the holiday season.
If you would like to understand more about mental health and learn how to support someone who is struggling please visit my website where I offer training and free resources.
Joanne Docherty, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Joanne Docherty is a Mental Health Consultant and Trainer and the founder of Starra Education. She delivers accredited Mental Health training and qualifications to organisations and works with clients individually, all over the world. She sits on the Scottish Parliament Group for Mental Health and also teaches Psychology at The University of Glasgow. Joanne’s adverse childhood has been instrumental in shaping her career and she sits on the board for several non-profit organisations dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and families. Joanne has a passion for learning, a vocation to help people and a commitment to social justice that she weaves into all of the work that she does.
