Staying well during the holiday season – 2022 Edition

News | Posted on 20th Dec 2022

This time of year brings many different emotions for people. There can be a disconnect between how Christmastime is shown and spoken about and the reality. If you are feeling low at this time, you can reach out. Many services continue to be available during holiday periods.

You can also prepare for difficult feelings and situations. This might mean putting in place boundaries with certain people, ensuring you make time for self-care amongst the busyness of parties and gatherings, or connecting with people in other ways.

As always, we have collected a few articles to help remind you that if you are feeling low you are not alone.

HelpingMinds have a list of 25 tips for looking after your wellbeing at Christmastime, from making sure to delegate tasks to eating healthily in between Christmas treats.
This older article from Healthdirect offers ‘8 ways to stress-proof your festive season’, and this most recent blog post explores ways to socialise without alcohol.
This counselling blog includes self-care reminders, including a suggestion to reach out to or join support networks if you are feeling lonely.
Headspace has some tips for young people who might be adjusting to a period without the routines of school or study
A Covid-19 wave is currently impacting NSW and Australia, which may be impacting the mental health of people who are currently unwell or concerned about getting Covid-19. Beyond Blue’s Covid-19 page has some information and resources on how to manage and who you can reach out to.
This article from Healthline talks about setting boundaries during the festive season and how to lean in to your chosen family, from an LGBTIQ+ perspective.
If you are someone who carries the mental load in your household, a load often increased by the Christmas season, this story from Beyond Blue explores the why of this issue and some tips for how to lighten that load.

If you need to reach out for support, these services are available 24/7:

If it is an emergency, call triple zero – 000
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
Lifeline – 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
Mensline – 1300 78 99 78

You can find other mental health services listed on the WSRC website here, and on Healthdirect here.

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