This post is by Anthony Savage of Sparta Health
2020 hasn’t been an easy year for anyone and plenty of us have suffered a setback in multiple areas of life. With people unable to see family and friends, at risk of losing their jobs and all planned events cancelled, it’s no wonder tensions have been high. In fact, more than two thirds of adults in the UK (69%) report feeling somewhat or very worried about the effect COVID-19 is having on their life (1). As we approach the holiday season, things are still looking bleak and many people are struggling with their mental health more than ever. However, just because this won’t be the holiday season we’re used to, doesn’t mean we can’t make it entertaining and festive to boost our spirits. In regular circumstances the Christmas season is tough for many people to go through for various reasons; it can put a lot of pressure on their mental health. One thing for certain is this year is the perfect time to take a break and put your health first.
Focus on your needs
When you’re an introverted person, Christmas can become a challenge. Being surrounded by people is exhausting and you know you’re only there to appease those around you. This isn’t to say you don’t enjoy seeing your loved ones, it just means doing so much socialising in a short period of time is too much to cope with. There’s an expectation of feeling merry and generous (2) during December but for those that suffer with depression, grief or stress, Christmas is more draining than enjoyable. After how 2020 has treated us and the number of restrictions on meeting up with others, you have the perfect opportunity to refuse socialising this year until it is safer to do so. Make the most of a relaxed holiday season and treat yourself to some festive and cosy nights in.
Prioritise a break rather than a party
Christmas is the time of year for catching up with extended family, work parties and drinks with friends. Along with making sure you attend as many events as possible, it’s common for people to put others above themselves. It’s easy to lose yourself in the festive season and by the time you reach January you’re exhausted and realise you need another week off work to recuperate.
There’s often pressure from your peers to have an outstanding Christmas tree, outdoor lights and copious decorations all over the house to add to the festive cheer. However, since this year not many people will be seeing the inside of your home, there is no pressure on decorating. Besides, the UK alone can spend around £222 million on Christmas lights each year (3), which is a lot of money to spend on something only you and those you live with will see. If you don’t have the energy to haul the Christmas mugs, bedding and placemats out of the loft this year, then leave them be. Only do what you are comfortable doing and enjoy the extra time you have to yourself.
Make the most of it
There is something magical about the quiet moments at Christmas. Those nights curled up on the sofa watching Christmas films can arguably be better than the big social gatherings for some. This year is the perfect time to enjoy all those quiet moments. It also gives you the chance to be more creative with the extra time to yourself. Maybe spending more time in the kitchen or teaching yourself a new craft will help avoid the Christmas blues.
Having this extra time will allow you to put more effort into your Christmas presents. Studies show that we exchange gifts to build and reinforce relationships and show our love and affection (4). What better way to express these feelings than to make something instead of buying gift sets from big businesses. From baking gingerbread cookies to making your own candles, there’s an array of activities and gift ideas to keep you busy and entertained.
Use the internet
It’s easy to feel down when you overhear colleagues and friends discussing how exciting their holiday plans are when you have nothing prepared. Feeling excluded is common, especially when you live alone or in a secluded area. Loneliness can leave you longing for human interaction (5) and this year it’s more important than ever to check up on those you believe are struggling.
Lockdown has taught us how to utilise the internet to connect with loved ones when we can’t be together in person. Utilising programs like Zoom is essential to those that live alone and will not be able to see their relatives this Christmas. You can get involved in various party games such as charades, Cards Against Humanity and Pictionary. It’s even possible to watch films together virtually so you don’t have to watch your favourite Christmas films alone. All of these can make your virtual hangout just as fun as those in person (6).
It’s okay to ask for help
Humans are social beings and we thrive off other people. When we don’t get that interaction, it can become a burden on our mental health. Sometimes having a conversation with someone else is the only thing that helps and during Christmas is no exception. There is no shame in admitting you need help, no matter how old you are or what time of year it is. A lot of people find that when they call their loved ones they admit they also needed someone to talk to. Sometimes you don’t know why you feel so low until you speak to someone else. Even if you don’t know who to contact, there are many emergency helplines you can call for support. Samaritans and Mind for example, are always there if you’re struggling mentally or just need someone to talk to, or Sparta Health, we are here for you! Just one conversation could drastically improve your mood and set you up for a much healthier and happier Christmas.
About Anthony Savage
Anthony Savage is the Medical Services Manager at Sparta Health, having joined the team in 2017 and is responsible for the overall operational delivery of our high quality services to our clients. He has a solid background in workplace physiology, health and safety, as well over 12 years of delivering, and holding senior management positions, for leading injury and condition management providers.
He is known for his innovative approach in his design and execution of services and his ability to build enduring relationships.
References:
- Marshall L, Bibby J, Abbs I. Emerging evidence on COVID-19’s impact on mental health and health inequalities [cited 2020 November 26]; Available from: https://www.health.org.uk/news-and-comment/blogs/emerging-evidence-on-covid-19s-impact-on-mental-health-and-health.
- Lancer D. Understanding & Coping with the Christmas Blues [cited 2020 November 26]; Available from: https://psychcentral.com/lib/understanding-coping-with-the-christmas-blues/#:~:text=The%20stress%20of%20the%20holidays,they're%20supposed%20to%20feel.
- Murray J. The costs and energy consumption of putting up Christmas lights [cited 2020 November 26]; Available from: https://www.nsenergybusiness.com/features/christmas-lights-energy/.
- Activity Superstore. The Psychology of Gift Giving [cited 2020 November 26]; Available from: https://www.activitysuperstore.com/occasions/psychology-of-gift-giving.
- Blair O. 10 small ways to help stop loneliness this Christmas [cited 2020 November 26]; Available from: https://www.redonline.co.uk/red-women/blogs/g25583455/feeling-lonely-christmas-how-to-help/.
- Labianca J. 11 Fun Games to Play on Zoom That Will Amp up Your Next Virtual Party [cited 2020 November 26]; Available from: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/g32098665/best-games-to-play-on-zoom/.