Christmas time can be wonderful.
Christmas time can be really hard.
Both of those feelings are ok.
When the world around you is lighting up with fairy lights, expectations are high for all things jolly and the radio is blasting out Mariah Carey from every station, it can be overwhelming if you are not quite in the festive spirit. It can be hard to find a space for honesty if you are feeling in a low mood or struggling with heavy feelings. We may find ourselves feeling less connected or isolated from those around us that seem to be in the Christmas swing.
Christmas can be a time when we may feel sad or alone just as any other time of the year can. That’s ok. It isn’t quite how Christmas is presented in the adverts or on the Christmas cards, but problems and struggles don’t just disappear when the mince pies come out – sometimes those dark feelings intensify. Social media may also contribute in tricking us into believing that everyone everywhere is having a better time than we are and consequently, we are getting it wrong somehow.
If you are feeling sad or alone at Christmas, reach out to those around you for support even if that feels hard to do. Not every Christmas is happy, but you are loved and this season will pass.
Hold on tight, talk about how you are feeling and believe that things can get better.
For further support on how to take care of your mental health and wellbeing at Christmas, follow this link: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/christmas-and-mental-health/christmas-and-mental-health/