With the festive period upon us many have been or will be starting to plan and think ahead, which can increase our pressure levels with the additional stresses and strains of buying presents and not knowing who we will be able to see this Christmas. Many may be looking forward to the Festive period as it may bring a break from work or our normal routine.
However for many people the festive period is not a happy one. It can be a lonely or sombre time. Perhaps one where we are remembering friends or family that are no longer with us. In this article and the supporting webinar we hope to discuss some tips and ideas for everyone this year that may help with getting through the festive period. Below are some simple suggestions that we will expand on in the supporting webinar:
Make Time for Yourself – It is easy to get caught up in the plans of family and friends but make sure that you make some time for you too.
Eat healthily – It can be difficult at Christmas but eating well is good for your mental health as well as your physical health.
Drink sensibly – A bit of alcohol can make you feel relaxed but too much can leave you feeling irritable and low, so try to avoid drinking in excess and be aware of healthy alcohol limits.
Get enough sleep – Try to keep a regular sleep pattern over the Christmas period, feeling sleepy can make you feel low.
Keep active – Exercise can have positive effects on your mental health. A walk around the block is a great way of getting exercise and also some fresh air.
Talk to someone – Talking about your feelings can improve your mood and make it easier to deal with the tough times. Care first are available 24 hours a day every day of the year for you to speak with a Counsellor in confidence.
Ask for help – It’s ok to ask for help if you’re struggling at Christmas. You could talk to family, a friend, neighbour, or colleague or contact Care first.
Volunteer – This is a good way to give something back, which can help you feel good about yourself. If you are alone at Christmas it is also a good way to find company.
The festive period can also be a difficult time financially for many. Recognising so and being mindful of your spending can help to manage this period. Some simple things to consider as we edge closer to the festive period are:
- Set yourself a realistic budget and don’t be tempted to exceed it
- Think about making gifts instead of buying them – chocolates, jams and preserves etc
- Instead of buying presents, spending time with a friend or family member can be a valued gift
- Care first have a finances calculator on the Lifestyle website, that may help you to plan ahead so that the cost of Christmas can be spread throughout the year
Another issue we will be speaking about on the webinar and in upcoming webinars is “the pressure of buying at Christmas”. This topic has been discussed by Money Saving Expert, Martin Lewis in recent years. You may find the following article interesting to read ahead of the webinar
https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/martin-lewis-money-saving-christmas19100397
If you are spending the festive period alone this year think about planning what you want to do beforehand to fill your time. This might include:
Going for a walk – getting some fresh air can be a perfect start and will be an opportunity to have some human contact with others out doing the same
Favourite films/TV shows – plan your day to incorporate all of your favourite films or comedy so it feels like a day of lovely indulgence
Volunteering – you certainly won’t be the only person on your own at Christmas, perhaps volunteer to help others.
We will discuss this topic in more detail during the ‘Festive Wellbeing’ webinar on Friday 3rd December 2021 at 12pm. You can register to join the webinar at
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3153539405524657935
If you are unable to attend the live webinar it will be available to watch afterwards, using the same link.
If you feel you may need some support, Care first is available 24/7 to provide confidential, impartial support. You can contact Care first 24/7 using the Freephone number provided by your Organisation.
Please be aware that Care first is an external provider and the information in their webinars may not fully align with advice from the University on some subjects.