Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year for most but what about those who are isolated, away from family or alone through some other circumstance. The time of the year when families and friends can gather and exchange gifts and be merry can be a painful reminder for some that they don’t have that luxury.
Taking Care of Your Mental Health
There is no better time than Christmas for people to take account and be thankful for what you have in you life be it loving family and friends, a roof over your head or food in the fridge. Practising this gratitude will help you or someone you know move past anxiety as you learn to live in the present and be mindful of all the gifts you have in your life. A simple way to do this is to write down three things you are grateful for each day.
If you find yourself sitting in your negative thoughts and don’t know how to deal with the loneliness try and ask yourself “what would I do if I knew how to get by?” Despite what you might think, you have more control over how your thoughts affect you.
You can make the choice to feel lonely because you are on your own or you can make the choice to feel grateful for the positive things in your life. Reformulating your negative thoughts is what Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is based on and is widely accepted as a very effective treatment for social anxiety disorder.
Reach out if you are struggling
If you are having a difficult time during this Christmas period don’t hesitate to reach out and get the help you need. If you feel uncomfortable talking to someone in your life about what you are struggling with please use one of the many hotlines/helplines available to you (check them out below).
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
- Headspace (for people aged 12-25) – 1800 650 890
- SANE Australia – 1800 18 7263
- If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call 000
In the Spirit of Giving
During this Christmas period its more crucial than ever that you give to SSPAN (if you are able to) so we can continue to make a difference, spread awareness of mental health issues, build individual and community resilience and ultimately prevent suicide. If you are in a position to give please click here.