Christmas often comes up in the therapy room at this time of the year. Christmas is enjoyed by many for its Christian beliefs, or as a time of reconnecting with family and friends, experiencing the joy of giving and receiving of gifts. For others anxiety, depression, can be made worse by the pressures of Christmas.
Family gatherings can be stressful, having to spend time with people you may not want to, especially if relationships are already strained. For the bereaved it can be a difficult time, perhaps their first Christmas without their loved one, or recalling happy Christmas memories with them and wishing they were still here.
Media channels advertise Christmas perfection, picturing tables laden with food, perfect happy families, expensive and exquisitely wrapped gifts. You may feel pressure to have ‘the perfect family Christmas’. This may involve months of planning, financial strain, which can lead to exhaustion, and resentment.
What can help?
Self-care, listening to your body and mind, is important for your health and wellbeing. Try to find some time each day for yourself.
You are only one person, and it’s impossible to be all things to all people. Accept your limitations, respect your boundaries.
Plan and budget as much as you can to avoid over stretching yourself and your finances.
You can find more tips on coping with Christmas on Mind’s website.
However you spend Christmas I hope it is peaceful and enjoyable. If you would like support please don’t hesitate to speak with a counsellor.
You can also search for local and national support services using the Hub of Hope:
Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of hope
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