News

17/12/2025 00:00, In Blog /

It is said to be a time of giving but when it comes to our mental health, Christmas can take a lot out of us too.

Feelings that are small to begin with can easily snowball into something bigger with the many extra pressures and expectations that the festive season can bring.

If you are worried about coping with your own emotions or about someone close to you during the festive season, Mind Cymru has some tips to help.

These include:

• Looking after yourself

Be patient with yourself, prioritise what you need, and remember Christmas won’t last forever. Set boundaries where you need them and say no to things that aren’t helpful if you can. You don’t have to take on every task or go to every event.

• Managing money

Making lists, plans or budgets can make money feel more manageable, as can being open about what you can spend. Reach out for support if you need to - organisations like Citizens Advice can help if you’re struggling with household bills, for example.

• Avoiding comparisons

The ‘Christmas’ we see in adverts isn’t real, so be kind to yourself. Remember that what you see online often doesn’t reflect reality and can often make us feel worse about ourselves. Taking breaks from social media can also help.

• Planning ahead

Think about what might feel difficult over Christmas and what could help you cope ahead of time. If regular routine is important to you, try and include this in your Christmas plans where possible. If you’re worried about feeling lonely or isolated this Christmas, think of ways to help pass the time in advance if you can.

• Talking to others

Tell people you’re spending time with if you are struggling and let them know how they can help you. Remember that you don’t have to justify yourself to others. Online communities like Mind’s Side by Side service can also offer a safe place to connect with others if you need to during the festive period too.

If you are finding Christmas difficult, you can:

• Call Mind’s Support Line on 0300 102 1234, open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm (closed on 25 and 26 December 2024, and 1 January 2025).
• Reach out to Mind’s online community Side by Side, available 7 days a week and 24 hours a day at https://sidebyside.mind.org.uk/
• Call Samaritans on 116 123 (freephone). Their English language line is always open and their Welsh language line opens daily from 7pm to 11pm.
• Text SHOUT to 85258, a free 24/7 crisis text service

Wales also has its own network of 15 local Minds providing drop in, befriending and other wellbeing services within communities across Wales. You can find out more on Mind’s website here.

For more tips on coping with Christmas, you can also visit www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/christmas-and-mental-health/christmas-coping-tips/