Everyone at Cordie sends their best wishes to all our learners and customers during this festive period. Whilst this is a joyous occasion for many, it is also important to acknowledge that our mental health can be affected during this time in a variety of ways.
Our mental health can be affected by:
· Finding it stressful because of other aspects of our life and wishing you didn’t have to deal with the festive period as well
· Feeling isolated or left out due to others around you appearing happy when you might not feel the same
· Feeling annoyed by other people’s thoughts on ‘perfect’ festivities, when this is different to your experiences
· Having ideas around what the festive period should look like and feeling the pressure of having to enjoy it / feel anxious something will disrupt it
· Feeling like the period gives you something to look forward to and therefore struggling once it's over
· Financial stresses and burdens of the festive period
· The added pressure that the festive period places on various relationships within your circle of friends and family.
TIPS FOR MANAGING YOUR WELLBEING OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD
1) LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF
Sometimes we can get so caught up in making sure we make the festive period the best for those around us that we put less importance on what we need personally. Try and prioritise your own wellbeing as well.
Set limits and boundaries – don’t feel pressured into saying yes to everything. It is ok to say no, especially if you feel it will not benefit you.
Take some time away from festive-related activities if you don’t enjoy the festive period. This can be reading a book, watching a film or doing something you enjoy.
Take time away from your studies so that you do not feel under any additional pressure. It is important to rest your mind from studying in order to be ‘ready’ for the next wave of future studies.
2) REACH OUT TO OTHERS
If you cannot be with family or friends over the festive period, reach out through video calls, messages or a phone call. Sharing good times or talking about feelings can help reduce loneliness.
Helping others during the festive period can create a sense of connection and purpose. Many charities and organisations need volunteers during Christmas. This will introduce you to new people and will feel rewarding.
3) SET GOALS FOR THE NEW YEAR
Whilst it is easy to get caught up in the present, planning small and achievable goals for the New Year can give you something to look forward to. This is good if you struggle once the period is over, and can include:
A fitness goal
Learning a new practical skill
Planning a trip
Scheduling your procurement and CIPS studies.
Setting positive intentions for the future can reduce feelings of worthlessness and aimlessness.
4) TAKE CARE OF YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH
Whilst taking care of your mental health, it is also important to think about your physical health.
Physical activity can boost your overall mood and energy levels, so consider going for a walk or a run. Try and encourage friends or family to join you for this.
Try and balance your food / drink over the festive period. Eating nutritious meals and avoiding overindulgence (especially in alcohol) can help improve mood and wellbeing. You might find the content of our Healthy Study Habits eLearning a useful reminder for this.
5) TALKING TO OTHER PEOPLE
If you are struggling, then let people know. It can help to talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling.
Let people know how they can help support you, things to avoid and things you would like to be involved in / would like support with.
Don’t feel like you have to justify yourself to others. Often people feel like they are pressured to do so, especially if the other person asks a lot of questions. It may be a good idea to let them know if certain situations are difficult and how they can help.
Remember, Cordie has two qualified mental health first aiders. We would love to hear from you, even if it just to talk something through that is on your mind. Contact our safeguarding team here for further information.
6) USEFUL CONTACTS SHOULD YOU NEED SUPPORT OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD
Hub Of Hope
This is an online directory that lists a range of services that are available to you locally and nationally. Click HERE to find out more.
Befrienders Worldwide
Offering confidential support for people in emotional distress or those close to them. You are not alone. Get help from trained volunteers 7 days a week. Click HERE to find out more.
CALM – 0800 585 858
Papyrus – 0800 068 4141
MIND – 0300 123 3393
No Panic – 0844 967 4848
Samaritans – 116 123
SHOUT – Text SHOUT to 85258
ABUSE – 0808 2000 247
Refuge – 020 7395 7700
Please note, these helplines can get busy too. Please don’t be put off if you can't get through. Try again later and ring another number in the meantime.