The approaching Christmas and New Year period is a time for celebration, fun and reconnecting with family and friends. But it can also mean anxiety, stress, depression and loneliness for some. The title above is simplistic advice of course - but it's a good start! And here are several other sources to find practical advice and other kinds of support during the coming weeks.
Coping with the Ups and Downs of the Holiday Season
Written by Greg Krech, this article has 8 very practical and sensible tips to help you "make this a better holiday season for you and those around you"
Coping with the Holidays Survival Guide
Refreshed and updated for 2016, this section of Psych Central's website provides a wealth of ideas, tips and resources. Although the site is based in the US, most of its content is relevant for Australia as well. The site is "the Internet’s largest and oldest independent mental health social network. Since 1995, our award-winning website has been run by mental health professionals offering reliable, trusted information and over 250 support groups to consumers"
Reach Out
Begun way back in 1996, Reach Out "provides practical tools and support to help young people get through everything from everyday issues to tough times". As well as a huge source of information for young folk, it also has sections for professionals and parents. A very useful site for young people for whom the Christmas period is a stressful or anxious time! You can also read more about the story of Reach Out here.
Beyond Blue
As well as being an excellent source of information about support services, Beyond Blue also has a Forum with the opportunity for connection and conversation with others. One of the topics is the CHRISTMAS 2016/NEW YEARS Chillout Lounge. Started by a forum member who is a "Community Champion", this is "a safe place where people can post and say hello, chat or send wishes to others and have a 'Virtual Christmas/New Years'! Whether you have plans for Christmas/New Years or having a quiet one you can kick back and just enjoy company of others." Visitors need to join/register with the community to post in the forum - membership is open to anyone residing in Australia.