The Australian Psychological Society (APS) is encouraging all Australians to acknowledge that this time of the year can be challenging, and we will all benefit from pacing ourselves this festive season.
APS President Ros Knight said: “Feelings of happiness, contentment and excitement can sometimes be accompanied by fatigue, stress and irritability. Studies vary, but generally suggest 40% of adults experience social anxiety at this time of year.”
“We face shopping, crowds and family gatherings. People can experience difficulties at family functions when families are not close. There is also the pressure to buy the perfect gift, which can be financially stressful,” she said.
“For some people, December is associated with anxiety, loneliness and sadness. This is particularly felt by those who have lost a loved one in 2019, and this is the first Christmas without them.”
Top 5 tips to keep the silly season under control
- Don’t overindulge in food or alcohol.
- Get enough sleep.
- Don’t skip the gym or your daily walk.
- Stick to realistic limits on spending.
- Make time for yourself.
Ms Knight advised that those who want to improve their mental health in the New Year, begin before 2020 does.
“The sooner you return to – or adopt – positive habits, the easier it will be and the better you will feel. Don’t wait until 1 January and don’t set too many resolutions. You will set yourself up for failure if you try to stop drinking, stop smoking, stop eating take away food, get fit and lose 10 kilograms at the same time. Choose one change and focus on it, in a realistic way.
“For example, if you drink too much alcohol, cut down instead of going teetotal. It takes time to break a bad habit, so accept that you will lapse along the way, and don’t punish yourself when do you. Just start again the next day,” she said.
“Think about the aspects of your life you want to improve and then put in place gradual, permanent changes. Tell your friends and family about the changes you want to make. They can both support you and keep you accountable.”
Ms Knight added that if after the holiday season you are experiencing anxiety or depression that is interfering with your life at home or at work, it is important to consult a psychologist or your general practitioner.
“There is a difference between the “holiday blues”, and more severe anxiety and depression which is long-lasting and interferes with daily activities,” she said.
You can find a psychologist near you at: www.psychology.org.au/Find-a-Psychologist
