Self-care is important all of the time, but it is particularly important in stressful periods such as the festive season where added obligations and commitments may seem over-bearing on you. Remember that your mental health is more important than any sense of obligation and stress you may feel about any ‘celebrations’ and ‘get-togethers’ with others.
- Set boundaries and avoid high stress situations
Setting boundaries might mean on how much money you spend, on how long you stay, and even on who you see. Reducing your stress beforehand can help us manage our expectations of others, avoiding arguments and tension. - Get out there and pay it forward
The Holidays can be a lonely time, especially for people who are experiencing social isolation. If this is occurring for you, getting out of the house can make a world of difference as even simple measures like changing your immediate surroundings or doing something different can help to generate greater feelings of wellbeing. If someone you know is having a hard time, invite them to spend time with you and your friends. The more the merrier. - Stick to a budget and don’t go overboard
Staying money smart is key to reducing your stress in the New Year. Why not make something like baked goods, personalised ornaments or decorations, or even writing a letter. - Stay Active
Keeping up with your regular exercise routine will boost your mood and carry you through into a stress free new year. - Check out some other resources for advice
At this time of everyone from gossip magazines to doctors surgeries are publishing advice for a better holiday, there’s no shortage of tips and tricks. Better Health Victoria published a great resource of holiday advice to help you smooth your holidays out and get everything lined up, check it out here
Whether you feel you have too little, or too much, going on during the festive season and are feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone and there are people you can talk to.
If you’re experience immediate distress please call 000 or present to a hospital emergency room.
If you need to talk:
Lifeline have trained counsellors who can listen and talk with you 24 hours a day on 13 11 14.
QLife is a national Peer to peer confidential telephone, web chat and referral service for people of diverse bodies, genders, sexualities and relationships. Phone 1800 184 527 or web chat on www.qlife.org.au 3pm until 12am.
If depression or anxiety is affecting you consider calling Beyondblue 24 hours a day on 1300 22 4636. Beyond Blue also have some helpful resources and support guides on their website: www.beyondblue.org.au/
