How to REALLY mind yourself and your loved ones over the festive season
Christmas is a time of giving and for sharing moments of joy, when families spend time together relaxing and recharging. However, spending all that time with the people you love can also drive you mad! And financial and family issues can evoke a whole range of emotions, including guilt, anxiety, depression and grief. Here are some tips to help get through Christmas in the best of mental health from clinical psychologist Dr CORINNE PEARSON of Ireland’s leading digital mental health platform SilverCloud®.
The new Irish documentary So This is Christmas highlights the loneliness and isolation that can arise at Christmas. What can people do?
The whole idea of togetherness and festive cheer can make the absence of loved ones feel even more pronounced. Open communication about feelings of loneliness with friends, family, support lines or mental health professionals can foster understanding and support.
Are people under pressure at Christmas?
There is a lot of pressure for many to act a certain way around the holidays, and this often gives rise to… stress, anxiety, and grief. Others may find that the season exacerbates symptoms of depression, particularly when their own hardships are contrasted with the perceived joyous occasion around them.
What can we do?
By acknowledging our emotions and approaching the season with a focus on well-being, we can create a more meaningful and fulfilling holiday experience.
How can we manage festive stress, generally?
This can be a hectic time of year with endless socialising. Relaxation and activities such as mindfulness can help to ease some of the symptoms of anxiety and stress. Navigating tricky thoughts and feelings more effectively can be supported through activities like yoga, meditation and moments of quiet stillness or calm. Do people get stressed about the financial side of Christmas?
A major part of Christmas is buying gifts yet often the enjoyment is taken out of holiday shopping due to financial pressures. This constant worry and struggle to manage finances can have a detrimental effect on mental health. Creating a specific budget for Christmas shopping will give a clear picture of your spending for each individual. Planning before shopping to have an idea of gifts can help to reduce impulsive urges.
Any other advice?
This time of year brings lots of social activities, some of which may involve alcohol. It can help to think about actively managing alcohol intake at this time. Many people find that… journaling, can help them better understand their drinking habits and behaviours.
Regular physical activity not only boosts your mood but also provides you with a valuable opportunity to step away from the chaos, clear your mind, and reconnect with yourself.
A good night’s sleep is crucial with all the socialising to allow your body and brain to unwind and recuperate.
Enjoying food is a fun aspect of the celebration, but it can trigger guilt. Making a meal plan may be helpful. Practise mindfulness by taking the time to savour meals. Engaging in self-compassion exercises if you have trouble with guilt related to eating is also important.