Claire writes about why the holidays can be hard and how much receiving a supportive card can mean.
- Claire Eastham
It’s “the most wonderful time of the year.” Christmas trees,
presents and bright lights wherever you look. How could you possibly feel
anything but happiness? Well… because you have depression or anxiety. As much
as I’d like to think that mental health conditions give way to the Christmas
break, I’m afraid they don’t. In fairness, neither would a cold or a broken
bone. Can you imagine? “oh its Christmas, I best get my arm out of this
cast.”
The holidays can be hard if you suffer from a mental health issue. On top of
everything else, it makes you feel guilty for not being happy when the rest of
the world is. However, this is all part of the trick. Both anxiety and
depression have ‘bully like’ characteristics and guilt will be used to punish
you. Remember, it’s ok to feel exactly how you want to feel. Certainly, don’t
curl up with it and hide yourself away from the festivities, but also, allow
yourself to feel sad, anxious or low. Suppressing feelings will only strengthen
them. After a while, you might find that the interactions, food, games and
general vibe of the day will naturally start to have a positive impact. So just
go with it.
I’m a big believer in kindness and words of support. Having
someone tell you that they care and will be there if you need help, can be
incredibly effective. That’s why when I spotted the Student Minds Christmas Card campaign I jumped at the chance to spread the word! Make a donation and
they will send a card with a personal message of support to either yourself or
a friend.
You have five days to sign up, so do it NOW… like this
second!
Claire Eastham is an award winning mental health blogger and her book We’re All Mad Here is available now.
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