The silly season, as they say, is closing in on us and that generally means added pressures to our daily lives. All too often as Christmas nears we tend to overcommit ourselves, adding even more on top of our jam-packed days.
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It’s important to listen to yourself and identify when things are starting to escalate before they get out of control. There are a number of ways you can look after your mental health and wellbeing every day…
Setting realistic goals can help you work towards a healthy headspace. Work towards eating well, getting more physically active and getting plenty of sleep. Set good boundaries with others and your personal time, don’t overcommit, be willing to say ‘no” to others.
Eat well and sleep well – eating doesn’t only reduce the risk of physical health problems, but it can help with your sleeping patterns, energy levels and mental wellbeing.
Reduce your intake of alcohol/drugs – some people make the mistake of thinking that taking drugs and/or alcohol can help get them through tough times. While it may help temporarily, it will impact your physical and mental health.
Build strategies – we all have coping strategies, some good, some not so good. Some positive strategies include: exercise, relaxation techniques, talking to someone, writing or art, doing something you enjoy for you.
Most of all, enjoy the season ahead, and take care of yourself. If you or someone you know needs mental health support during this time, here are some options on who to contact:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au/about-lifeline/contact-us
- Parents line – 1300 1300 52 www.parentline.org.au
- Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 www.kidshelpline.com.au
- Mental Health Line - 1800 011 511
- headspace - 02 4824 4944 www.headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/goulburn/