A merry and 'mentally healthy' Christmas
A higher number of mental health issues can emerge during the festive season when people feel isolated, without a close family or group of friends to share the holiday spirit and Christmas tradition with.
According to Lifeline, on average more than 2500 people call the Lifeline phone councelling service on Christmas Day in crisis, and for Kids Helpline it's their busiest period of the year.
Our advice
- Use this time as an opportunity to connect with friends and family or meet new people.
- Enjoy some sunshine and a swim down at the beach.
- Make the most of your holiday time to relax and unwind with loved ones.
- If you have work, schedule a Christmas lunch for another day when everyone can get together.
- Get involved in local community events.
- Don't get stuck on the past - focus on the here and now.
- Moderate your alcohol intake - it acts as a depressant.
- Be mindful of eating good nutritional food and keep hydrated with water.
- Be active and enjoy the beautiful outdoors, but keep protected.
- Make a list, get things prepared early and prioritise what's important.
- If you feel your emotional health and wellbeing is compromised, ensure you can re-group or avoid any unnecessary and undue stress.
- Access an online chat service or phone helpline if you're struggling to cope or feel unhappy.
- Share the load. Ask others to share the responsibility and certain tasks if you need to.
- Have fun! This is a time to reflect, reconnect, laugh and celebrate. It is a time to give and receive.
Get help
A number of helplines are available 24/7, and hire more people to meet peak demand at this time of year.
- Lifeline - 13 11 14
- Kids Help Line - 1800 551 800
- Mensline - 1300 789 978
- Emergency Services - 000
- Crisis Care - 1800 199 008
- Rural Link – 1800 552 002
- Mental Health Emergency Response Line – 1300 555 788