Coping at Christmas

Tips for coping during Christmas

If you find Christmas a difficult time of year, this page has some tips to help you cope.

Different things can help us at different times, depending on our situation and how we're feeling. Try some of these ideas and see what works best for you.

Self harm

Summary

• What is self-harm?
• Why do people self-harm?
• Getting support
• Ways you can look after yourself
• How to help someone who self harms

This content mentions self-harm, suicide or suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and substance abuse or addiction (which may include mentions of alcohol or drug use). Please read with care.

Suicidal thoughts

Summary

• What does it mean to be suicidal?
• What can make someone want to end their life?
• What can I do if I feel suicidal?
• How can I help someone if I’m worried they’re suicidal?
• Further information and resources
  

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Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons — seasonal affective disorder (SAD) begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. These symptoms often resolve during the spring and summer months. Less often, SAD causes depression in the spring or early summer and resolves during the fall or winter months.



Online Mental Health Support

The internet can be a way to understand your mental health condition or treatment, connect with others, or get therapy. Being online can let you explore things at your own pace, at a time that suits you and with total anonymity if that’s important to you.