Give yourself permission to have an imperfect Christmas

We give you permission not to have the perfect festive season! 

Yes, this time of year has potential. But for those of us who struggle with our mental health, it can be really difficult.  

The relentless Christmas ads and music can be overwhelming, and seeing other people’s ‘picture-perfect’ festivities on social media can make us feel under pressure to do the same. 

We’re here to say no – you don’t have to have the perfect festive season! 

At the end of an uncertain year, we hope you can spend time with the people you value. 

We also hope you find a quiet moment to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the next. 

And most of all we wish you an imperfect Christmas, wonky baubles and all.  

Here are some tips for those more difficult days: 

• Open up to someone who will really listen – this can make a huge difference when you are struggling 

• Find moments of calm and downtime to nap, hang out and recharge – watching a film under a blanket is perfect for this 

• Get outside for a walk – movement is great for our mental health, and the perfect way to grab an hour of quiet in the middle of festivities  

• Be mindful of social media – pictures don’t tell the full story and everyone holidays are different 

For more support if you are finding things especially challenging, please reach out someone who will listen: 

• Samaritans – Open 24/7 Call: 116 123 

• C.A.L.M – Open 5pm – midnight every day, call: 0800 58 58 58 

• Mind – Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays), Call: 0300 102 1234 

• Papyrus – Under 35’s: Open 24/7 Call: 0800 068 41 41 

Adults in Somerset can also access our Crisis Safe Space service – offering out-of-hours help for anyone struggling with their mental health. Crisis Safe Space is open throughout the festive period. This service is run by @mindinsomerset & Second Step for anyone living in the Somerset area. 

We wish you a joyful, gratitude-filled, peaceful and imperfect Christmas.