Looking after your mental health at Christmas

There are so many things to love about Christmas; family gatherings, good food, the lights and carols. But it’s important to remember that Christmas can be a very difficult time for some, especially those who are alone or suffer from depression.

At Christmas, it’s important to take the time to reflect and appreciate what we have. Christmas isn’t just about the giving and receiving of presents. For some, Christmas can trigger negative memories or anxiety, especially with the pressure of attending social engagement or buying big presents.

If Christmas is a particularly difficult time for you, here are a few tips to help combat your anxiety:

Talk

Open up to someone about your feelings and talk about your isolation, often there is a root cause. If you address where you think the problem may lie, it could take a great weight off your shoulders. A problem shared is a problem halved.

Your physical and mental health is the most important thing to us here at General & Medical. We want to look after your body and mind, which is why we offer complimentary 24/7 Health and Wellbeing services. If you need someone to talk to at any time of the day, there will always be someone to listen at the other end of our GP advice line.

Try something new

Pick up a new hobby, something you’ve always been interested in trying out or make time for a hobby you already enjoy. Join a group where you’ll meet others who share the same interest as you, this will boost your confidence.

If you suffer from social anxiety and feel uncomfortable about shopping for gifts, why not try crafting them yourself? Crafting is an incredible way to improve your mental health! Knitting and crochet, for example, can help lower blood pressure and combat anxiety.

Exercise

Release those happy endorphins, exercise is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Making your body feel better through physical activity will make your mind feel better as well, so exercise is well worth it, even if it’s just going for a walk! Or if you’re a keen jogger, ParkRun often organise 5k runs on Christmas day in some locations! Find out more here: www.parkrun.org.uk/special-events/

Take a break from social media

Reduce the time you spend on social media, we often compare ourselves to others and this can have a negative impact on our mental health. Make time for yourself, whether it’s reading a book, watching your favourite film or listening to music. Our reality of Christmas isn’t necessarily the same as what we see online or on TV.