In this week’s blog we thought we would do things a little different and talk about the ways to look after yourself and those around you at Christmas time.
There are many causes of stress at Christmas, from running out of wrapping paper to not being able to find the end of the Sellotape roll, to bigger concerns around financial stresses and their impact on mental health.
Causes of stress at Christmas
It’s a shorter working month – December is a shorter working month, meaning less time to complete everything at work before the start of a new year. We all know the feeling of an increased workload and the anxiety it causes.
It’s the most expensive time of the year – It is undoubtedly the most expensive time of the year without question, with the average Brit expected to spend an average of £602 each on Christmas gifts in 2023, which is an increase of 40% from 2022.
Tis the season to get sick – the winter months are notorious for coughs, colds and viruses to do the rounds, which, as a result, leads to less working time due to sickness and absence. This again causes stress and anxiety for those who are poorly and those who are picking up the extra workload in their colleagues’ absence.
Childcare responsibilities—As schools break up, it can be difficult at this time of year to find suitable childcare to support working families. We all want to achieve the perfect work-life balance, but it can be increasingly difficult to achieve at this time of year.
The Mental Health Foundation talk about being kind to yourself at Christmas, and they talk about six top tips to help you through the festive season; they include:
Open up
Be honest with those around you about how you are feeling this festive period. If things are getting too much, don’t bottle it up. Reach out to those who you trust for their support and friendship. Remember, it’s good to talk.
Make time for yourself
Christmas time can be very busy, with visiting friends and family and having to be with others a lot of the time. Remember you don’t have to say ‘yes’ to everything. Take a break from it all and do something that is good for you.
Be you
You may feel pressured to buy lots of presents, entertain the family, and keep up with everyone else, but remember you don’t have to. Remember to be you and do what makes you happy.
Don’t forget to eat something healthy among all those treats
Remember that moderation is key, this will help you to keep your mental health on track as an excess amount of sugar and alcohol may have an adverse effect on your own mental health and those around you.
Go outside
It’s that time of year again when it’s frosty and cold. Remember that going outside and having a walk in the fresh air will do your mental health the world of good, plus it also helps to counterbalance all the indulgence!
Do something that makes you happy
You may join a local group, take up a new hobby, or help with some volunteering. Whatever makes you happy and has a positive impact on your well-being will boost your mental health in more ways than one.
As an employer, you can offer support, such as an employee assistance programme or mental health first-aider training, to help your workforce with their mental health.
If you need further support or guidance regarding mental health in the workplace, View HR can help, so please do get in touch with the team to find out more.
