How to stay well over Christmas, especially this Christmas

Christmas is just around the corner and while it is a time of celebration for many, it can also be a challenging time for others. 

It’s especially difficult for people experiencing loss, isolation, financial hardship or relationship difficulties. When we add into the equation the additional stressors we’ve all faced this year as a result of the pandemic, then it is really important that we take care of our mental health and wellbeing this festive season. 

It is really important that we take care of our mental health and wellbeing this festive season.

• Difficult thoughts and feelings around Christmas time

Many people will find Christmas difficult this year, for lots of different reasons. Some will be feeling worried or fed up about how the coronavirus has changed life. Here are some of the more common difficult thoughts and feelings that you may experience over the festive period.

• Disappointment and frustration over lost experiences. 

This year a lot of our plans have had to be cancelled or put on hold. When it comes to Christmas this may mean that you feel you’re missing out on your usual holiday traditions whether they are religious gatherings, celebrations with your extended family or the annual office party. When we miss out on events and activities that bring us a sense of happiness, comfort or connection, then it’s normal for this to leave us feeling disappointed or fed up.

• Feeling under pressure. 

You might feel under pressure to keep other people happy, or to make Christmas especially memorable this year to help people feel better if they are struggling. You might also feel under pressure to conform to other people’s wishes or expectations. For example, people have different views on following the health and travel guidelines over Christmas which can be stressful, particularly if you are asked to do things that make you feel uncomfortable. 

• Grief if you have lost someone you care about. 

Christmas can be a particularly hard time for those who are grieving the loss or death of a loved one. This may be even harder this year if you feel that you haven’t been able to grieve properly, access the support you need or were unable to say goodbye due to coronavirus restrictions.

• Money worries.

Christmas is often a time of year that creates more financial burden for people, particularly if you feel under pressure to spend more than you can afford. This year, many people will be experiencing added financial stress, for example if you have been made redundant or lost income and work opportunities due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

• Tips for celebrating Christmas during Coronavirus

We’re all different and one of the most important things we can do for our own mental health and the mental health of others is to embrace our own uniqueness and support other people in theirs.

If you are experiencing feelings like those described above, then the following tips may help you to adapt and enjoy Christmas. Even if you’re looking forward to Christmas this year, these tips can help you to stay mentally fit and well!

• Adapt your favourite traditions. 

If you can’t crack on with your favourite festive traditions because of restrictions, then see if you can adapt them rather than giving up on them altogether. If you usually attend a carol service or Christmas concert can you join one online or sing along to a recorded one on TV? 

If you usually share a meal with friends or relatives that you’re unable to see in person this year, why not plan to cook a meal or order a takeaway and have a virtual dinner party? You could also start a new tradition, for example hosting an online Christmas quiz, cheese or wine tasting or Christmas-themed fancy dress party. 

• Let go of what you don’t enjoy. 

The pandemic has certainly provided us with opportunities to pause and reflect on what is really important to us. Perhaps there are things that you’re unable to do this year but that actually feels like a relief! Take this opportunity to take stock of how you normally spend your time, money and energy at this time of year and consider whether there are traditions that you would rather let go. If a quieter and simpler Christmas suits you better, then great! Give yourself permission to enjoy it. 

• Accept and support each other. 

We’re all different and one of the most important things we can do for our own mental health and the mental health of others is to embrace our own uniqueness and support other people in theirs. Let people know your ideas, plans and wishes for the festive period but don’t assume that other people will be happy or not to join in – ask them, and respect their wishes. Likewise, join in with festivities that feel meaningful and comfortable for you but don’t be afraid to say no if not!