Dec 9, 2022
As the air begins to chill and the high streets light up with bright colour across the towns, a buzz is stirring in the air. ‘The most wonderful time of the year’ we are promised and yes that may be so for some and for lots of others it’s a really difficult season. The rest are often somewhere in between joyful and frazzled!
Feelings can really intensify as we look at our family dynamics and financial situations.
Dashing through the sales, with bags stuffed with gifts, lists as long as your arm and the mental spreadsheet of Christmas to-do’s not giving you the joys of the season as promised by the films and songs?
You are not alone. The Christmas season can be full of expectation and that comes with financial strain, busy diaries, and pressure for everything to be perfect.
On top of all that our mental health can suffer, especially if we already experiencing difficulties. This is a message to you that it doesn’t need to be perfect and you don’t need to do everything. Think about what is important to you and make a plan around that.
1. Instead of zooming around trying to see everyone give them a call instead, or postpone meetings until after the new year. If the house is going to be full with guests, ask people to help with getting things ready like walking the dog, creating a music playlist, bringing a dessert. If the house is empty and you would like company see if local groups have events on or arrange a zoom call with a friend.
2. Relationships can really be pushed during this season, the key is to communicate openly. Most people will understand if you tell them that things are getting on top of you, if they don’t then that’s ok too as they are most likely in their own world of stresses and strains. Often by talking about a problem it reduces the likelihood of emotions building up and spilling out in unhelpful ways.
3. Comparisons with others is almost inevitable in the world of shiny tv adverts and social media bombardments, take a break from scrolling if it is not serving you well and create your own memories. Perhaps get out for a wintery walk to keep busy hands pressed firmly into the warmth of your pockets and break the cycle of being attached to your phone.
4. Music is a wonderful scene setter for our moods, so whether it’s blasting out with Mariah (you know the one) or Motorhead (not known for their Christmas ballads but who cares?!), set your own mood with your favourite tracks. If you can take pleasure in the smallest moments the bigger picture sorts itself out.
5. Feast in the vibrant decorations, the jingly baubles with metallic sheen and miniature bells, smile at the houses covered in thousands of fairy lights and giant snowmen and penguin. Laugh with the person who wears the most eclectic jumper to the party and see all the effort created simply with the intention of bringing joy to others, to you.
6. Most of all, be compassionate with yourself, and if things are really tough please reach out, there are lots of organisations who can help you get through. All will be well.
Disclaimer: This article has been designed for entertainment and informational purposes; it is not personalised medical advice. This guide may be a useful read to generate some ideas, however, please take advice from a medical professional.