Christmas Survival Guide – our top 10 tips!
The lead up to Christmas can be a stressful time and, without having classes and structure, some people can find it a difficult time without having routines in place. With the Christmas break fast approaching, Claire Nelson – Perth College UHI Student Counsellor – shares her helpful tips for looking after your wellbeing during the holidays.
1. Having plans can be helpful
Will you be going home for Christmas, or staying in the local area? Having things to do during the break can be helpful for some. Why not meet up with friends, or continue to access the gym/classes at the Academy of Sport and Wellbeing. If you’re not a member already, the ASW team are offering free trials. Why not give it a go?
2. Self-care is really important
Making time for yourself whilst you are on holiday is always a good idea. Self-care comes in many guises: you could watch a good movie, treat yourself to a bubble bath, or sit down with a good book. Or it could even be implementing your boundaries and saying ‘no’ to someone for your own mental wellbeing.
3. Drink in moderation
Alcohol and Christmas usually come hand in hand, but don’t forget that alcohol is a depressant and having many days where you are consuming alcohol can at times make your mood feel low.
4. Don’t forget to connect with others during the Christmas break
Whether you’re taking time to FaceTime your family for a catch up, or meeting up with friends, it’s good to connect with others and help ease the feelings of loneliness and isolation.
5. Follow the 31-day mental health challenge
Copies are available outside the Student Support Hub, so pick one up before the break. Every day during December, there are challenges which are beneficial for positive wellbeing.
6. Plan ahead
Looking at what you would like to achieve in the future is a great idea to get motivated for the coming year. We have printed off some goal setting worksheets, and these can be picked up from the table outside the Student Support Hub.
7. Know that there is support out there
If you feel you are alone, and want to talk to someone, please remember that the Samaritans offer a 24-hour helpline. Call 116 123 for free, and they won’t judge or pressurise you - they will listen non-judgementally.
8. Get some fresh air
Getting outdoors for a walk in nature, or even just a lap around the block where you live, can do you the world of good. Did you know that getting access to fresh air and daylight can help you get a better night’s sleep too?
9. Pick up our handy tip cards
We have tips cards for bereavement, social anxiety, loneliness and looking after yourself available outside the Student Support Hub. If you experience social anxiety, for example, you could try having a contingency plan that allows you to think about what to do if you start to feel anxious. Could you take a moment outside to take some deep breaths?
10. Enjoy yourself!
We know that you may need to dedicate time to study over the holidays, but remember to set aside some to enjoy yourself too. A healthy balance of self-care and studying will result in positive mental wellbeing.
