How To Stay Stable This Christmas

While many people think of the holidays as a joyous and wonderful time, there are others who dread this time of year, particularly those with mental health issues. It can be an extremely triggering and overwhelming time for some (I know it is for me). I find myself at Christmas time becoming more stressed, feeling the pressure of society and also feeling overwhelmed by all the emotions. In fact this overwhelming feeling usually inadvertently causes a depressive episode, especially post Christmas and into the New Year, as I'm sure it does for a lot of other people too. Not only this, but those with eating disorders usually struggle around Christmas time, what with all the food and drink triggers. People with anxiety may experience more panic attacks around Christmas time. Those with psychosis may experience more psychotic episodes during Christmas due to stress of Christmas shopping or being prepared in time. Mood may become elevated in those with bipolar disorder.

The main word here is STRESS. Stress is a huge trigger for anyone with a mental illness and can cause relapses in a heartbeat. So in order to have a stress free Christmas, I've put together a list of things to try and keep you safe and stable.

1. Firstly, if you need a time out, take a time out. You don't have to feel guilty for this. If it's necessary to your mental health, then it's majorly important you follow your feelings and do this. Whether it's five minutes or five hours or even five days, take the time you need to get away from the upheaval this Christmas.

2. Spare some time for YOU. Christmas time can be overwhelming with family and friends and it's easy to neglect ourselves mentally (and sometimes physically too). Have an extra long bubble bath with candles, practice some yoga, read a book you love, draw, paint, sing, anything! Do something you live during the holidays to remind you of who you are.

3. Practice self care. This sounds like the above but it's really important. It can be difficult but try to wash and brush your teeth regularly. This will keep your physical health safe. Eat a balanced diet and eat intuitively. Exercise not to look good, but to FEEL good. If you're a girly girl, do your nails, put a face mask on or if it helps, do your makeup to make yourself feel better. If you're a guy, play some games, shave or if you have a beard, douse it in beard oil! If you are really struggling and don't want to be out of bed, change your pj's or bed sheets and get back into bed.

4. Try not to isolate yourself. While it's important to spend time to yourself, it's equally as important to not fall into social exclusion. Stay in contact with your closest friends and family. Meet up with them for a cuppa or lunch. It'll get you out of the home and into a new environment and will most likely make you feel like you've achieved something. Plus, seeing friends is always fun and having a healthy lunch is good for your physical health. Or if you really want that burger, go for it! You have nothing to feel bad about.

5. Remember not to neglect your hobbies. While depression can lead to neglect of activities, neglect of activities can also lead to depression, and so is a vicious cycle. Try to keep up little tasks be it mindful colouring, playing music, art, walking, etc. These will help keep your motivation up this Christmas.

6. If you feel like self harming, try the rubber band technique. Wear a hair bobble or rubber band on your wrist and every time you get an urge to self harm, pull and release the band. This is a safer way of coping with stressful events,

7. Remember that food is important to your physical and mental health. Be aware of your food triggers, but try and keep up your vital nutrients. Try to eat your fruit, vegetables and protein and don't forget the complex carbohydrates to keep your energy levels up! Basically, try and stay balanced around the holidays.

8. Make sure you practice sleep hygiene.  Turn off electrical devices 30 mins before sleep and spend time winding down. This will help you to feel relaxed and go to sleep. Read a book in bed or have a hot chocolate while listening to some soft music. Try and get 7-8 hours of sleep a night, and try not to go to bed too late.

9. Talk to someone. If you're struggling with this time of year, tell someone you trust how you're feeling. This just makes others aware that you're having a hard time and need a bit extra support. Whether you tell a friend, a family member or your mental health team, try and talk to someone and lift that weight off your shoulders.

10. Try to stick to your budget. Christmas is the most notorious time of year for overspending. If you have bills to pay, make sure to pay them on time before doing anything else. This will stop more pressures hanging over you this month. Plus, your home is one of the most important things to keep up with. The last thing you need is to be worrying about your rent/bills as well as Christmas shopping!

11. Use your distraction skills. For those in mental health services, this will be a time where you won't see any professionals for a few weeks, meaning it's a really important time to use your skills and techniques when you have bad days. This links in with self care and hobbies. Remember to do things you like and find interesting. You could even look into a new hobby to start in the new year or somewhere new to visit.

12. Remember that if you're really struggling, there's always The Samaritans (number is 116 123) or your local crisis team to give you extra support. Don't hesitate to contact either of these. They are trained to help YOU.

13. Get out in nature. Nature is an amazing natural therapy for your mind. Even just going for a short walk and getting some fresh air can clear your senses and help you think more clearly. Try and be around trees and plants. Maybe even buy some houseplants to look after.

14. Try to avoid drugs and be careful with alcohol. Drugs are not good for your mental health, and can even worsen symptoms such as anxiety, paranoia and psychosis. If you must do drugs, make sure you're in a safe place and using needles safely- never share needles. I'm not going to tell you to not drink alcohol at all, but be careful with it. Alcohol is a depressant and some people have adverse affects such as binge drinking or violence. If you want to have a drink, keep it small for the sake of your mental (and physical) health.

15. Don't forget to take your medication! Set an alarm if you need to or have someone else administer your medication. Do whatever is best for you to make sure you always take it on time. Remember, you're going to be without professionals for a few weeks so this is the most important time for you to try and look after yourself in the best way you can. Step one to doing this is to keep yourself well.

16. If you're in hospital this Christmas (psychiatric or general) try to interact with staff and other patients. This will make you feel less isolated and more included in activities. Conversation is great for self esteem too! 

17. Give. Sometimes low confidence/self esteem can be boosted by helping those that are not so fortunate. Maybe try and volunteer at a homeless soup kitchen or shelter, or donate to a small charity for unfortunate families. You can even give away old clothes, shoes or tins of food to others.

I hope these ideas can help you during the holidays and the new year. Remember to put yourself first and make sure you stay healthy mentally and physically, as well as making it your aim to stay safe and stable this Christmas.

Leigh