Look after yourself and others this Christmas: AMA (NSW)

The holiday period can be overwhelming for many. AMA (NSW) is urging everyone to acknowledge the feelings from yourself and others this Christmas, even if those feelings aren’t so cheerful. 

“The festive season can be a time to reconnect and celebrate with loved ones, but for some, it can be a difficult, stressful time where daily challenges are heightened and healthy habits can be ruined,” said AMA (NSW) President, Dr Michael Bonning. 

Challenges such as grief, loneliness, exhaustion, mental health issues, stress, anxiety, substance and alcohol abuse, and financial struggles can be amplified. 

From the travelling back and forth, to seeing family, to seeing friends, to spending more money than usual, to eating huge amounts of food, to drinking large amounts of alcohol – the holiday rush can take a toll on people both mentally and physically. 

“It can be easy to let normal day-to-day routines the keep us feeling happy slip. The added pressure and responsibilities this time of year may lead to an overwhelming number of new emotions and feelings, and it’s important to recognise and acknowledge what yourself and others are going through,” Dr Bonning said. 

Mental health struggles have been on the rise in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. When it comes to reflecting on the year, some may struggle to feel what others feel. 

If you’ve lost a loved one this year, it’s important to make space for your grief and loss and honour your loss in a way that feels right to you. 

“Don’t be too hard on yourself this year – it’s okay to process your feelings in a way that helps you. It’s important to take it easy and set healthy boundaries such as declining invitations or having fewer responsibilities. If it’s someone else struggling, please respect their decisions. 

“Letting people know you’re there for them, and you love them and care for them, can be the difference,” Dr Bonning said. 

It’s recommended to trying to stick to your normal day-to-day routine as much as possible in the holiday season, but if it’s easier said than done – make sure you’re still doing the things you love. Ensure you’re taking enough time out to relax and do the fun activities that boosts your endorphins. 

According to Lifelines Crisis Support Workers, other coping techniques to look after your mental health this Christmas include going back to the basics, keeping tabs on your stress and anxiety levels, monitoring your budget, focus on giving, restricting your alcohol intake, having realistic relationship expectations, and the most important one; remembering you’re not alone.  

If the Christmas pressure is taking a toll on your mental health, always remember that there are many others in the same boat so don’t be afraid to reach out. There’s always someone to listen to you. 

“If you know of someone struggling, please reach out to them and listen. The best gift to give this Christmas is the gift of listening,” said Dr Bonning. 

If you’re experiencing mental health issues this Christmas, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. 

Media contact: 0419 402 955