Keeping in touch with friends, family and loved ones over lockdown is important for our mental health. But with COVID-19 restrictions in place over the festive period we may not be able to see everyone we want to.
We are having to adapt this year and think outside the box to make the most of the festivities by using technology and getting creative with how to celebrate. Below are a few things to consider for the upcoming celebrations.
Using technology
Technology has been utilised more than ever during periods of lockdown. This has enabled us to stay in touch with friends and loved ones. There are a huge range of different ways to use it to keep up to date with goings on in your social life, see some below:
Messaging
A good old fashioned message to a friend or loved one can go a long way, whether it’s a long conversation or just simply checking in to wish a Merry Christmas or a Happy New Year, either way you’re letting people know you are thinking of them. Send a photo or two and share the festivities, this will keep everyone in touch and feel involved.
Call/Video Call
Video calling is more popular than ever, especially during lockdown and there is a reason for it. Seeing someone’s face when speaking to them makes the exchange feel more natural and engaging. It can also be the preferred method for people less technically able as it is easier to use. Video calling is a great way to get the whole family together during times of restrictions without breaking the government guidelines. You will be able to create group video calls to ensure you can get everyone in. You can get inventive and host your Christmas dinner remotely, each with their own food. Arrange a time and you can all enjoy a virtual meal together. Another possibility is opening your gifts together so everyone can share in the enjoyment. Play a game of remote charades and share bad cracker jokes, the list goes on! There is no shortage of ways to use the modern video call, you can bring this into your Christmas day to make it as inclusive and social as possible.
Social Media
Although it is argued that social media is detrimental to mental health as it exposes us to
negativity, it can also be used for good. Social media is a great way to share positivity and
festive cheer with friends and family.
You can keep friends and family updated with your festivities by posting photos, videos or
merry status’ it’s completely up to you. If you’d prefer to do so privately you can send
photos directly to whoever you’d like.
This will help people share in the festivities even if they are stuck in isolation on their own, it may help them to enjoy the Christmas period.
More information
If you would like to view the Webinar on ‘Staying connected and celebrating festivities
differently’ please use the following link – https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2409549357164742413
If you feel you may need some support, you can contact Care first. Care first is a leading provider of confidential, professional counselling, information and advice services. All employees are eligible to use Care first, our services include; telephone counselling, information services and online support. Call Care first on the Freephone number provided by your organisation and you can speak to a professional in confidence.