Mental Health Matters: Nic Goddard - November 2024
The run-up to the festive season is truly upon us now with shops filled with party food, gift ideas and sparkly clothes, and the TV running Christmas adverts in every ad break.
If this truly is the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ for you then no doubt you will be finding joy in all of the holly, jolly merriness.
For many people though the approach of the holiday season strikes fear into their hearts rather than peace and goodwill to all.
Our community singing group has had one of our regular members disappear until January as our carols and Christmas song practice was making them feel awful rather than joyful.
I have friends who are dreading spending time with family that they don’t get on with and are able to avoid the rest of the year. Other friends are fretting about how to stretch their already meagre household budget to include gifts, luxury food and other additional spending.
If you are able to identify specific triggers or areas which cause anxiety then they can be easier to deal with.
Sharing your worries with a trusted friend or supportive person can help a lot, as can writing down concerns to see what solutions you can find to alleviate some of the worries.
Taking time to slow down, even when it feels as though life is so busy you simply can’t spare the time, can also be really helpful.
The five ways to wellbeing are a good place to start in relieving anxiety, reducing stress and may be helpful at this time of year.
Take notice: Even the most cynical and Christmas-weary of us usually have at least one part of the season which makes us smile. Even if that is finally getting to January 3 and breathing a sigh of relief that it is all over! Find the joy for you in this time of year and ensure you are not losing that in all of the noise, clutter and busyness.
Connect: Sharing what you love or loathe about this time of year is a great way of airing your worries and finding common ground with friends, family, neighbours and co-workers. What family traditions do you have? What are your favourite festive films or songs? You may find that sharing your concerns leads to solutions too - clothes swaps or regifting ideas, tips for a smoother festive season or just some moral support.
Be active: It is a great time of year for getting outside after dark to enjoy starry nights, neighbourhood Christmas decorations, crisp cold frosty walks or simply having a good old dance to Christmas party classics.
Keep learning: Whether you get crafty with gifting or decorating, perfect some new festive recipes or have signed up to sing carols round the tree, or join in with an am-dram panto and have lines to learn. Try to view these as learning opportunities rather than sources of extra stress.
Give: A pre-Christmas clear out can free up space in your home and really help out others in need. If you are able to donate or gift party clothes, possible gifts, toys or other items to those who struggle, donate to foodbanks or support charities you get the feel good hit while helping others too. If you have the resources then preparing a little extra food or drink to share with others can be really rewarding, as can offering other support such as helping with childcare, lifts or other small ways to lend a hand.
This time of year can be a magical wonder-filled season but many of us find it tough - be kind whenever you can and if you need support then reach out and ask for it.
There is always someone to listen and springtime is never quite as far away as we think. We are just a month from the shortest day after which the light begins to return again.
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