How Can You Prioritize Wellbeing to Beat Holiday Stress?

As the festive season approaches, health experts in Guernsey are urging islanders to prioritise their mental wellbeing amidst the festivities. Director of Public Health Services, Nicola Brink, emphasised the importance of self-care during this time, highlighting that while celebrations can be joyous, they can also lead to pressure, fatigue, and feelings of loneliness.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In light of the upcoming festive season, health officials in Guernsey are actively promoting mental health awareness. With many islanders facing increased stress due to various holiday-related pressures, experts are providing practical advice on how to maintain personal wellbeing. This initiative aims to reduce the stigma around discussing mental health and encourage individuals to seek help when necessary.

Key takeaways

Prioritise personal wellbeing to avoid feeling overwhelmed during the festive season.
Take time to relax and slow down, even on busy days.
Stay connected with friends and family to combat feelings of loneliness.

Timeline: how we got here

As the festive season approaches, Guernsey's health officials have ramped up their efforts to address mental health challenges. Over the last few years, awareness around mental health has grown significantly, especially during the winter months. The following timeline outlines key milestones in this ongoing initiative:

December 2020: Increased focus on mental health during the festive season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
November 2021: Launch of community mental health campaigns in Guernsey.
October 2022: Public workshops held to discuss coping strategies for the holidays.
October 2023: Current push by health experts to remind the public of the importance of self-care during the festive season.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent statements from health officials highlight the importance of recognising the pressures associated with the festive season. Nicola Brink's advice to "pause and breathe" has been a focal point of their current campaign, encouraging a more mindful approach to celebrations.

What was already established

It has been known for some time that the festive period can exacerbate mental health challenges for many individuals. Factors such as financial strain, family dynamics, and societal expectations have long been recognised as potential stressors during this time.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As the cost of living continues to rise in the UK, many households may face additional financial pressure during the festive season. This can lead to heightened stress and anxiety, making the advice from Guernsey health experts particularly pertinent for UK residents as well.

Businesses and jobs

With many businesses experiencing a seasonal uptick in activity, employees may feel pressured to meet demands while balancing personal commitments. This can lead to burnout if not managed properly.

Policy and regulation

There is ongoing discussion within the UK government regarding mental health support, especially in light of the pandemic's impact. Guernsey's focus on wellbeing may serve as a model for similar initiatives across other regions.

Numbers that matter

1 in 4 adults report feeling overwhelmed during the festive season.
30% of people experience increased feelings of loneliness during the holidays.
25% of individuals admit to feeling pressure to uphold social traditions that may not align with their wellbeing.

Definitions and jargon buster

Wellbeing: A state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.
Mental health: A person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Self-care: The practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate term, individuals are encouraged to assess their own mental health and reach out for support if needed. Prioritising self-care activities will be crucial to navigating the festive season more positively.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Looking ahead, ongoing support from mental health services will be vital as individuals process their experiences during the holidays. Continued awareness campaigns may help reduce stigma and encourage more people to seek help.

Signals to watch

Increased demand for mental health services in January, as people reflect on their holiday experiences.
Community engagement metrics, such as attendance at wellbeing workshops and events.
Feedback from surveys regarding holiday mental health experiences.

Practical guidance

Do

Take regular breaks to rest and recharge.
Engage in conversations with trusted friends or family members.
Participate in community events to foster a sense of belonging.

Don’t

Overcommit to social gatherings that may negatively impact your wellbeing.
Ignore feelings of stress or anxiety; acknowledge them and seek support.
Compare your experiences to others; everyone’s holiday season is unique.

Checklist

Identify your personal wellbeing goals for the festive season.
Schedule moments of relaxation amidst holiday activities.
Reach out to someone if you're feeling overwhelmed.
Set clear boundaries regarding social commitments.
Make time for activities that bring you joy.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the advice from health experts is grounded in sound practices, it is essential to acknowledge that individual experiences of the festive season can vary widely. Some may find joy in the celebrations while others may struggle significantly. It's crucial to approach this time with an understanding of personal limits and to seek professional help if feelings of distress become overwhelming.

Bottom line

The festive season can be a time of joy, but it can also bring unique challenges that affect mental wellbeing. By prioritising self-care, setting boundaries, and staying connected, individuals in Guernsey—and across the UK—can navigate this period more healthily and mindfully.

FAQs

What are some signs that I need to prioritise my wellbeing during the holidays?

Signs include feeling overwhelmed, experiencing increased anxiety, or withdrawing from social interactions. It's vital to recognise when self-care is needed during the festive season.

How can I connect with others if I feel lonely during the holidays?

Consider reaching out to friends or family via phone or social media, or participate in community events that encourage interaction and socialisation.

What should I do if I feel pressured to attend social gatherings?

It’s perfectly okay to decline invitations that do not align with your wellbeing. Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining mental health during the festive period.