It’s the most wonderful time of the year…

…for most people, but for some, Christmas can be rather less than glittery.

I just wanted to bring to attention how Christmas is a danger zone for some people in terms of mental health.

‘’Mostly I'm OK. It's Christmas time that it hits me worst, as that's when he died. Then I stare at his empty chair and feel swamped by an awful, aching loneliness’’ (Mind.org.uk)

Some people might find it harder to deal with the added pressure:

·         More pressure to engage in social activities, which may be difficult for individuals with a range of anxiety disorders who really do not want to dance the night away in a sequin mini
·         Change of routine, again may be hard for those with anxiety problems
·         Fear of being lonely (mind.org.uk), or feeling lonely whilst watching others be together
·         Sad and sentimental at times, maybe missing people you no longer see. This may be particularly a problem for individuals who are depressed
·         Lots of social eating and drinking may be hard if you have an eating disorder- Christmas dinner isn’t the same if you’re sat there calculating how many calories are in a sprout.
·         Seeing other people being happy and feeling bad because you’re just not feeling that way
·         Guilt for not being as happy as you feel you should be- guess this is a viscous circle which may just dampen your party spirits a little!
Also, it’s important to realise that the over-indulgence of Christmas in terms of late nights and cocktails can also take its toll on Psychological wellbeing.

Maybe we should just bear this in mind x 

We hope you have a very merry Christmas, the Hallam Head Space team 

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