Mental Health at Christmas

by Sophie Reeve-Foster

Mental health awareness has dramatically increased in the last decade or so: with more companies considering it in policies regarding illness or disability, the launch of meditation apps such as Headspace, and well-known faces opening up about their personal stories online or through books. Many would say that a feeling of support and understanding is emerging in the UK where it has been cold and confused before.

That is not to say we are finished; of course there is so much more work to be done. From the desperate state of the understaffed CAMHS, to how the socially acceptable “anger” from men so often becomes a cover of any other negative emotion. There is so much to dive into about mental health, but the existing support and helping mindset can easily be dismissed during the holidays through the perceived nationwide happiness, or ignored and forgotten. However, if there is a worst time for this behaviour, December is probably it.

At worst, Christmas is a time of heavy expectation with looming fear of disappointment, between bitter mouthfuls of artificial grins and the familiarity of feeling completely alone. I know, the pessimism is intense, but this is a reality for so many; much more ugly and uncomfortable than a neat little description. Those who can’t fathom this should consider ourselves lucky and do the best we can to support others. Along with the exciting traditions, Christmas should be about honesty and acceptance: even if that just means having a proper chat with a parent about the stress of the cooking, or inviting the old lady down the street in for a coffee.

At best, Christmas could be a relaxing, open environment, free from pressure and expectation. Let's make it that for everyone, by starting with the message that it’s okay not to be okay.