Christmas is a delightful time of the year for many, but it also can create mental health challenges for those who struggle to cope with loss of every kind from relationships to relatives.
Dympna Carten, mental health lead at the National Emergency Operations Centre and founder of CayMind, says Christmas is “multifaceted”, and being able to cope with holiday blues includes recognising when one is struggling.
“It can be the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be an incredibly stressful and challenging time depending on your situation, social support, network of friends and family, and finances. The joy of a baby’s first Christmas, a couple’s first Christmas together, coming home to spend time with family, expectations of great gifts and magical times are all extremely exciting,” she said.
However, she added, while Christmas can be tremendous fun, involving music, dancing and culinary feasts, there are those who do not have the money to buy gifts, drinks, food, new outfits, and to travel to be with family and friends.
This is why, she said, it is important to be kind, not just to others but to one’s self.
“Be kind to yourself, be honest and prioritise your needs. Own your feelings and reach out to someone you trust to share your concerns, do not be afraid to confide your struggles.
Take time out, remind yourself ‘that this too shall pass’ and focus on the small joys, take some time to get to the beach and enjoy the lovely Caymanian Christmas breezes,” she said.
Dr. Koshy Thoppil, in an Alex Panton Foundation article titled ‘Nurturing Your Mental Well-being: A Guide to Holiday Mental Health’, said recognising that the holiday season need not be perfect can also help mentally.
“It is ‘okay’ if the season does not unfold as anticipated. Be aware of your expectations as they relate to your own behaviour and that of others. Unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment, stress and feeling of inadequacy. Creating realistic goals and being flexible in your approach can help alleviate unnecessary pressure,” Thoppil said.
Thoppil noted that prioritising self-care is important.
“It is extremely easy to neglect self-care amid the hustle and bustle of holiday expectations. However, it cannot be stressed enough the importance of adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy diet and incorporating regular physical activity in maintain overall well-being. Take some time for activities that bring joy and relaxation. Reading, meditation, or even a humble warm bath, can serve as effective stress relievers,” Thoppil said.
Carten reminded that Christmas is a wonderful time to reflect on the year that has passed:
“The successes, the challenges met head on, the resilience enhanced and harnessed to be utilised for another year ahead full of opportunity and promise, hope for better days ahead.”
Tips to help cope with holiday blues
1) Be realistic, manage your expectations, time, money and social engagements. Do what you can, with whom you can and with what you can afford.
2) Plan ahead, make a list of things you need to do and try to maintain a regular sleep and dietary schedule. Avoid excessive alcohol intake.
3) If you take medication, make sure you have enough to cover the festive period.
4) If you can’t be with the people you want to see in person, arrange a phone or video call to catch up with them on Christmas Day. If you are alone, plan to connect with someone.
5) Be kind to yourself, be honest and prioritise your needs.
6) Take time out to remind yourself ‘that this too shall pass’ and focus on the small joys.
7) Keep an open mind; you never know what joys will unfold at Christmas time.
If you or someone you care about is having difficulty coping over the holidays, call CayMind on 1-800-534-6463 from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, for free and confidential support and guidance.
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