The festive season is often portrayed as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. However, for many, it can also bring stress, loneliness, financial strain, or the resurfacing of difficult emotions. Whether you are navigating challenging family dynamics, coping with grief or simply feeling overwhelmed by the pace of the season, it's essential to prioritise your mental health during this time. Here are some practical tools and resources to support you.

Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness involves staying present in the moment without judgment.  It can help reduce stress and increase self-awareness.  You can incorporate mindfulness into your day through:

  • Breathing exercises: Pause and take slow, deep breaths for a few minutes to ground yourself.
  • Meditation apps: Apps like Headspace, Calm, or Smiling Mind offer guided meditations tailored to stress reduction and relaxation.
  • Mindful walks: Take a stroll and focus on the sights, sounds and sensations around you, leaving distractions behind.

Practice awe
Think about situations where you experience goose bumps and get that feeling of wonder. Experiencing moments of awe can help reduce feelings of stress. Paths to awe may include sitting in nature and observing surroundings, looking at clouds and sunsets.

Set boundaries
The festive season can come with many social expectations. Remember, it's okay to say "no" to gatherings or commitments that feel overwhelming. Setting healthy boundaries protects your energy and ensures you are prioritising your needs.

Stick to routines
While holiday schedules can be unpredictable, try to maintain routines that keep you grounded, such as regular meal times, exercise and sleep patterns.

Plan ahead
Planning your schedule, meals and shopping list in advance can reduce last-minute stress. Use a calendar or planner to set realistic goals and allocate time for relaxation.

Engage in self-care
Self-care is not selfish, it’s essential. Some self-care activities include:

  • Journaling your thoughts and feelings.
  • Listening to music or podcasts that uplift or calm you.
  • Taking time for hobbies like reading, painting or gardening.
  • Designate a quiet, calming area in your home where you can retreat to relax and recharge when needed.
  • Pay attention to your physical and emotional needs. Rest when you are tired, eat when you are hungry and take breaks when you are feeling overwhelmed.

Stay connected
For those feeling isolated, connecting with others can make a big difference. Reach out to friends or family members, join a community event or consider volunteering. If in-person interactions feel overwhelming, even a phone call or text can foster connection. A few ways you can stay connected this festive season are:

  • Carols by the Beach: Join the Merewether and Newcastle community on 22nd December 2024 at Empire Park for an evening of live carols, children's activities, a fireworks display, and a visit from Santa Claus.
  • Samaritans Newcastle Lunch in the Park: Wednesday 25th December, 10am - 2pm at the Railway Carriage Shed, Newcastle Foreshore Park.
  • Samaritans Christmas Eve Lunch at Singleton: Tuesday 24th December at All Saints Anglican Church Parish Hall, Bishopsgate Street, Singleton 11am - 2pm.

Food and emergency support
The festive season can bring additional financial stress, and accessing food or emergency relief services can be a vital support during this time. Here are some resources available in Newcastle and the Hunter region:

  • Samaritans Emergency Relief Centres: Offers food hampers, vouchers and essential items to individuals and families experiencing hardship. Broadmeadow: (02) 4922 1540, Toronto: (02) 4959 7857, Rutherford: (02) 4993 3400, Cessnock: (02) 4993 3430
  • Vinnies NSW: Provides emergency relief, including food vouchers, clothing and financial support.  Visit vinnies.org.au or call 13 18 12.
  • The Newcastle Referral Centre: offer food vouchers, clothing, blankets and can also provide assistance with energy and rates bills.  Contact on (02) 4961 6885 for support.
  • Baptist Care Hope Street Wallsend and Windale: Offers emergency food hampers, community meals, financial assistance and support services for those in need.  Visit their locations or contact them directly for assistance and availability during the festive season. Wallsend: 0482 165 418 - 58 Cowper Street, Wallsend NSW 2287, Windale: (02) 4032 4810 - Shop 1, 124 South Street, Windale NSW 2306

Crisis supports available
If you or someone you know is struggling this festive season, help is always available. Here are some key crisis support services you can contact:

  • Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
  • Beyond Blue: Call 1300 22 4636 or chat online for support with anxiety, depression, or emotional distress.
  • Suicide Call Back Service: Call 1300 659 467 for 24/7 phone and online counselling for people affected by suicide.
  • Kids Helpline: Call 1800 55 1800 for free, confidential support for young people aged 5 to 25.
  • MensLine Australia: Call 1300 78 99 78 for support with mental health and relationship challenges.
  • Emergency Services: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.

The festive season can be a time of mixed emotions, but with practical tools, self-care and support, you can navigate it more confidently. Remember, it's okay to prioritise your mental health and reach out for help when needed. You are not alone, support is always available.

Written by Sophia Euhus, Clinical Social Worker from our NDIS & Chronic Disease team.