Now the festive season is in full swing, we are reminding local communities, service users and colleagues that their mental health matters and it’s okay to ask for help if struggling.
Winter brings extra pressures for everyone – at home, at work, online, and with loved ones. Cold weather, seasonal illnesses and the demands of daily life can take a toll on mental wellbeing.
December often brings images of the perfect Christmas, happy families, lavish gifts and endless celebrations. Social expectations tell society this should be the most wonderful time of the year, but for many, that’s not the reality. The pressure to meet these ideals can lead to stress, anxiety and low mood.
While Christmas can be a time of joy and connection, it can also bring challenges. Extra financial strain, busy social calendars and the pursuit of perfection can leave people feeling overwhelmed. If this resonates with you, you’re not alone, but small, simple actions can make a big difference and protect your wellbeing.
Bhranti Parekh, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner from Talking Therapies, explains:
"We know the festive season can amplify feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and low mood, especially with the constant comparisons we see on social media.
Remember, Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect. Social media often shows curated snapshots rather than reality, so try to focus on what truly matters to you and your loved ones. If comparisons start to affect your mood, consider limiting your screen time and instead spend time doing something that makes you feel good and getting outdoors for a walk can boost your mood and increase your vitamin D levels. While it is normal for routines to relax over the holidays try to make a conscious effort to maintain healthy habits with food, alcohol and sleep as these will help you feel your best.
We’re encouraging everyone to check in with themselves and reach out for support if needed.”
Financial stress is another common challenge. Charity StepChange recently reported that more than 14 million adults will struggle to afford Christmas this year, with many often-using credit cards and pay later facilities.
Bhranti adds:
"Set a realistic budget and track your spending, make lists and write your outgoings down, you can even categorise these into essential and nice to have. It might mean scaling back spending on gifts, but it can help prevent debt and reduce anxiety in the New Year.
If you feel like you need any mental health support, reach out and ask for help. People who are struggling often say what a huge relief it is to talk about what they are experiencing."
NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Talking Therapies is a psychological therapy service offering a range of free talking therapies. The service can be assessed in person, online or telephone and specialises in psychological interventions to support people’s differing emotional needs including generalised anxiety, panic, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Self-referrals can be made online or via a GP. During the initial assessment, a practitioner will discuss the best options.
Further information can also be found in the Good Health Starts campaign which includes symptom advice, mental health support and guidance on when to seek emergency care.
Good health starts with good choices and we are encouraging people to explore the resources now to protect themselves and those around them this winter.
If you’re in crisis or feel unsafe, call NHS111 and select option 2 for immediate mental health support.
