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This most wonderful time of year can also be one of the loneliest for many. How can you spot the signs that you may need mental health support this festive season? 

A 2019 YouGov poll reported that one in four adults feel lonely during the festive season, finding Christmas more difficult for their mental health than the rest of the year. Amid the celebrations, feelings of stress, loneliness, or sadness can emerge, which is why it’s essential to prioritise your mental health and recognise when you need support. 

A recent survey found that 51 per cent of people find Christmas stressful, with financial strain being the main reason for this stress (44 per cent) and busy schedules only adding to the burden.  

While Christmas can be a time of joy and togetherness, it can also be a challenging one for many people. This is especially true for those who are grieving a loss, living far from loved ones, or navigating complex family dynamics. For some, the festive season can heighten feelings of isolation. 

In some cases. these feelings can be manageable, by taking extra time and care of ourselves. Here are just a few ways to manage your mental well–being during this period: 

1. Set realistic expectations: Let go of perfection and focus on meaningful moments. It’s important to be mindful, to not look and compare yourself to others.  
2. Maintain healthy boundaries: It’s okay to say no to commitments that drain you. Often, we can get wrapped up in saying yes to everyone, but you must prioritise your own needs and slow down if you need to. 
3. Practice self-care: Whether that means exercising, meditating, engaging in hobbies or doing absolutely nothing, these small acts for ourselves can make a big difference. 
4. Stay connected: Reach out to friends or family members. Even a simple conversation can lift your spirits. 

If you’re struggling with feelings of anxiety or depression, don’t hesitate to seek help. We can offer mental health support to Freemasons and their families including partners, widows, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and step-grandchildren of Freemasons. Find out more about our support: https://mcf.org.uk/get-support/freemasons-and-families/mental-health-and-wellbeing/  

If you need mental health support over this festive period, many organisations also offer crisis support hotlines that operate 24/7 over the holidays. Remember, you are never alone: https://mcf.org.uk/resources/useful-links/  

The festive period can amplify both joys and challenges. By acknowledging your emotions and leaning on available resources, you can navigate this time with greater resilience. Let’s also look out for one another and those who might be quietly struggling—sometimes, the greatest gift we can give is our presence and empathy.