Support for the festive season

The holidays carry a lot of expectation. And while they can be a genuinely joyful time, they can also bring stress, strain, and, for some, loneliness. 

If this time of year feels more overwhelming than celebratory, you're not alone. Many people feel the same way, even if it rarely gets talked about. Here are a few simple ideas that can help. 

Small connections matter 

Loneliness tends to deepen over the holiday period. Research by the Ending Loneliness Together initiative found that almost 1 in 3 Australians feel lonely. 

Checking in on a neighbour, volunteering locally, or finding a community event nearby can all help. Even a brief, genuine connection can shift how a day feels. 

Give yourself a break from social media 

Everyone else's holidays tend to look a little too perfect online. If scrolling is leaving you feeling flat, it's okay to step away. The curated version of someone's festive season rarely reflects the full picture. 

Finding your way through family gatherings 

Family time can be complicated. If gatherings in your family tend to run hot, a little planning can help ease the day: 

• Sidestep topics that tend to lead to arguments.
• Keep the focus on any kids and what they're enjoying.
• Spread visits across different days if that makes things more manageable.
• Have an activity ready — something low-key that gives everyone something to do together. 

If someone close to you is a consistent source of stress, a calm, honest conversation — when the moment is right — can help more than you'd expect. 

Be mindful of alcohol 

It's easy to lean on a few drinks when things feel heavy, but alcohol can deepen low moods rather than lift them, and carries real health risks with regular or heavy use. The National Health and Medical Research Council recommends no more than 10 standard drinks a week, with no more than 4 on any single day. Staying hydrated and pacing yourself will make a difference. 

Take the pressure off gift-giving 

Money worries have a way of creeping in at this time of year. It's perfectly fine to suggest a different approach to gift-giving — whether that's a shared budget, presents only for kids, or a Secret Santa arrangement where each person buys for just one other. 

Support if you need it  

Whatever this season holds for you, remember that looking after your mental wellbeing is just as important as your physical health. 

As a Peoplecare member*, you have access to our Mental Health and Wellbeing Service, which offers a range of resources that may be helpful if you want a little extra support – including Here2Talk. 

Here2Talk is a free and confidential service that connects you with a mental health professional who’ll listen, assess your needs, and guide you to the right support. It’s available via video, online chat, and phone (1800 403 116) 7 days a week, 10am – 8pm AEDT (weekdays) and 12pm - 6pm AEDT (weekends), even on public holidays. 

Make time for you 

Meditate, journal, read, or simply take a nap when you need one. Our Mental Health and Wellbeing Service includes journal prompts, articles, courses, mindfulness activities,  and guided meditations, all designed to support you when you need it.  

Remember, it’s more than ok to make time to care for yourself this festive season. 

Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog/8-ways-to-stress-proof-your-festive-season 

*This service is available to Peoplecare members with an active and financial policy at the date the service is received. Not available on Ambulance Only cover.