While Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and celebration, it can also be a period of significant stress and anxiety for many. The festive season can exacerbate existing mental health issues or even trigger new ones. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward managing them effectively.
1. Increased Stress and Anxiety:
The pressures of organizing celebrations, financial strain from gift-giving, and managing social gatherings can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety. A study in the Journal of Affective Disorders notes the rise in stress levels during Christmas due to these pressures (Sansone, R.A., & Sansone, L.A., 2011).
2. Loneliness and Isolation:
Christmas can be particularly hard for those who are alone or far from loved ones. The emphasis on family and social gatherings can heighten feelings of loneliness and isolation. Research in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health highlights the impact of holiday loneliness on mental health (Hawkley, L.C., & Cacioppo, J.T., 2010).
3. Grief and Loss:
For those who have lost loved ones, Christmas can be a painful reminder of absence. The contrast between the general merriment and personal grief can intensify feelings of sadness and loss. The American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine discusses the challenges of navigating grief during festive seasons (Edwards, A.R., & Pang, N., 2010).
4. Substance Abuse:
There is often an increase in alcohol and substance use around Christmas, which can be a coping mechanism for stress or a way to enhance celebrations. However, this can lead to or exacerbate mental health issues. The journal Addiction reports a spike in alcohol-related problems during the holiday season (Makela, P., et al., 2010).
5. Disrupted Routines and Diet:
The change in routines and overindulgence in food during Christmas can affect physical and mental health. Disruptions in diet and exercise can impact mood and well-being, as discussed in the Journal of Health Psychology (Conner, M., & Norman, P., 2005).
Conclusion:
The Christmas season, while a time for celebration, brings its unique set of mental health challenges. Recognizing these issues and preparing for them can help mitigate their impact. It’s important to maintain routines where possible, seek support when needed, and be mindful of the pressures that the festive season brings.
References:
- Sansone, R.A., & Sansone, L.A. (2011). The Christmas Effect on Psychopathology. Journal of Affective Disorders.
- Hawkley, L.C., & Cacioppo, J.T. (2010). Loneliness Matters: A Theoretical and Empirical Review of Consequences and Mechanisms. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
- Edwards, A.R., & Pang, N. (2010). Coping with Grief and Loss During the Holidays. American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.
- Makela, P., et al. (2010). Alcoholics’ Attributions of the Role of Alcohol in Their Lives. Addiction.
- Conner, M., & Norman, P. (2005). Predicting Health Behaviour. Journal of Health Psychology.
How to get in touch
If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.
