How to Cope with Christmas
Feeling down at Christmas time can cause even more distress, because the expectation is that we should feel happy. So, we can end up feeling as if we are failing.
Below is some advice on how to tackle Christmas if your health or mental health is low.
Be Aware
The first step with coping with Christmas then is to recognise these expectations for what they are - expectations. Often, expectations differ radically from reality. That's not your fault.
Self-Care
- Warm baths
- Walks in nature
- Massage
- Art (if it is enjoyable to do, rather than hyper-stimulating)
- Spa Retreat
- "Me Time"
- Anything else that you enjoy or get pleasure out of...
For an extensive list of pleasurable activities, you can visit this web page.
Connect
Seeking Support
If you need immediate help, or struggle for whatever reason to connect with others in your life, The Samaritans are an excellent organisation if you live in the UK. They are great at listening and have helped hundreds of thousands of people over the years. You could call them now and talk things through with them. They are always happy to listen.
If you live in Bristol, and you think you'd like a consultation session with me, please feel free to check out my website, Your Voice Counselling, Bristol for further information about counselling and psychotherapy, or go to my contact me page for ways to get in touch.