Christmas, it’s a double edged sword

14th December 2017

To some it’s ‘the most wonderful time of the year’; however for many out there it’s anything but.

Christmas brings so much to so many - joy, family time, presents. But for others, it can compound feelings of loneliness, the financial strain, the pressures that society puts on people to ‘keep up with the Jones’s’, the forced socialising of works nights out, etc.

There’s this attitude that if you don’t like Christmas you’re a Scrooge type character, but sometimes it’s not a case of not liking it, but rather of being unable to.

Think about the work colleagues, family, and friends that look like they are not enjoying themselves and then consider that there may be another reason for how they are, rather than them just being a “Scrooge”.

It’s a difficult time of year for many and it goes beyond the notion of simply not enjoying it. Financial problems, family problems, addiction problems - these can all play a part in someone not enjoying this (or indeed any) time of year.

It’s true that being around loved ones can be an invaluable support network at any time of year but there are times when it can become too much, we feel obliged to take part in the festivities when sometimes all we want is just to let the day pass with a minimum of fuss.

Do what you need to do to make you as relaxed as possible.

Don’t want to cook for a whole load of family?

Then don’t.

You want a pizza on Christmas Day?

Have a pizza!

Make the day your own and spend it in a way that will help you to get through it with a minimum of stress.

But there are those out there who don’t have anyone at all to turn to or spend time with when they maybe need it the most, those that feel more vulnerable at this time of year. If you know of anyone in this position, go out your way to at least let them know that they have one person that’s there and thinking of them, whether it be a simple text or phone call - it can make all the difference.

New Year resolutions are a good idea and having goals for the coming year is a good thing and something that can aid recovery, but don’t pressure yourself into making grand plans over a long period, I’m a firm believer in setting short term goals and never try to look further ahead than is absolutely necessary.

Whatever you do over the next few weeks, make it your own and take as much time for you as you need.

Derek.