For some people this season is something to look forward to, but for others it can be one of the toughest times of the year, due to a number of things including grief, loss, and financial worries.
This webpage includes some tips, ideas and information to help you manage some of the challenges you might face during the cold weather and festive season.
The leaflet is also available in other formats and languages.
Keeping in touch with friends, family and the people we trust is important. World events and things happening in our personal lives may cause us to feel sad or low. Talking to others can really help, and allows us to give and receive emotional support. We should make time to see loved ones and if that’s not possible, we can still make contact using the phone or free video services such as WhatsApp, Facetime, Skype and Zoom.
Being alone during this season can feel very hard. Find out what is going on in your local area, whether it be community-based, or social online activities. You can find details online and in your local newspapers of online and community events to join.
The end of the year can be a time for reflection. For many, this year has been tough, and we all deserve self-compassion. Notice and celebrate your efforts and the things you did well, including what you have done differently to cope with life challenges. If you make New Year resolutions, consider something that will help you to look after and be kind to yourself.
Feeling worried or anxious is normal, particularly in the face of the current economic crisis and life challenges. It is important to try and create a wellbeing routine so that we can add balance back into our lives:
• Be kind to yourself – the festive period can be a very difficult time
• Make a list of things you are managing and things you are struggling with. If you are finding something difficult, is there anyone that can help you?
If you can take action, what do you need to do?
• Set a goal for yourself to work towards, and think of the smaller steps you need to complete to achieve your goal
• If watching the news feels like too much, try to limit the time you spend on (social) media
• Try to think about the present, search for mindfulness videos on YouTube to help
• If you cannot celebrate in the same way this year think of what else you would like to do and make a plan.
A positive note
End your day on a positive note, by spending a few minutes before bedtime to think about something positive that happened in the day – or something positive you hope will happen in future.
We are here to help
If you are affected by Grenfell and finding that things are too much for you or a friend or family member, please get in touch, we’re happy to help.
You can self refer right here on our website or give us a call on 0208 637 6279 to talk through your options, even if you have accessed our service before.