Christmas is just around the corner and some of us will be getting on with planning a few days with our ‘Christmas bubble’ households and looking forward to a long-awaited time to meet with loved ones again and to enjoy ourselves. We all know what we should be doing to protect ourselves and others from this dangerous virus when we are able to get together over Christmas, but this Christmas, perhaps more than any other, we mustn’t forget to look after our mental health and that of those we love – particularly after the stresses and challenges of the previous ten months.
To be able to get together at last will no doubt be a much-needed tonic for many – the chance to relax and enjoy each other’s company at least for a few days and of course still following the rules. That in itself will boost morale and mental well-being, but Christmas is going to look different this year, and it may not be what we would ideally like or be used to.
There are some who will not have or be able to join with another bubble household – or who this year simply choose not to celebrate with others in order to protect their own health and that of their loved ones preferring to wait until it is safer to get together. The last ten months have been a lonely time for many – and this will be felt even more acutely at Christmas time. It’s important to remember those who are alone, who are unable to meet with loved ones or who may have lost someone close to them this year.
Christmas can bring out long-standing tensions between family members as family relationships are placed under the strain of being together under one roof and sometimes alcohol-fueled festivities can cause tongues to loosen and inhibitions to drop – maybe more so when families are brought together after so many months apart.
Organising a Christmas celebration can be stressful even in ‘normal’ times. Trying to ensure everything is in place – from presents to the turkey to the tinsel on the tree – can be a logistical challenge at the best of times, as well as a financial strain. And this year of all years, there may be the added pressure felt to have everything absolutely perfect.
It is important to take the time to look out for how we and others are faring mentally this Christmas. What can you do to make this Christmas as mentally healthy as possible?
Try to stay connected with friends and family through phone or video calls, even if you can’t be physically together. Make plans for regular check-ins and consider taking walks or having brief, socially distanced visits outdoors if safe to do so. Remind yourself that this is temporary and better times are ahead.
Keep things simple and realistic. Focus on what really matters, time together and connection. Avoid overcommitting yourself financially or emotionally. Delegate tasks where you can and remember that things don’t have to be perfect for everyone to have a good time.
Be prepared to take short breaks when needed. If emotions run high, step away for a few minutes to calm down. Set boundaries and try to focus on shared positive experiences rather than unresolved issues. Remember, it’s okay to prioritise your mental well-being.
Reach out and check in with them. A simple message or call can go a long way. Encourage them to talk about how they’re feeling, listen without judgement, and let them know they’re not alone. Offer help if they need practical or emotional support.
Make the day special for yourself, cook a favourite meal, watch festive films, or enjoy a good book. Take time to relax and do things that bring you joy. Create your own traditions, and if possible, plan a future get-together to look forward to.
