St Patrick’s Mental Health Services share their tips to help you #BePresent this Christmas

Christmas can be an overwhelming time for many people. With presents to buy, food to prepare, and family to visit, it can all get a bit much. It’s normal to feel stressed at the holidays, but this stress can affect everyone in different ways.

St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services want to remind us that mental health difficulties don’t take a break for Christmas, and they have some advice for looking after your own wellbeing and how you can be there for others during the festive period.

Tips to #BePresent this Christmas

Taking time to stay in the moment and be present can help you get through the festive season. The tips from St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services include:

• Focusing on being present rather than actual presents. Giving and receiving presents can be stressful, but taking time out to appreciate the things that are important to you can help you enjoy the holiday more.
• Remember the impact alcohol can have you your mental health. With Christmas parties, family gatherings, trips to the pub and meals out, there’s a lot of drinking at this time of year. If you’re feeling anxious or stressed about Christmas, alcohol could make it worse.
• Reach out to those close to you and spend time with others – you never know what someone could be going through.
• Remember to take time out for yourself and look after your own mental wellbeing

Read all 5 tips to help you #BePresent this Christmas here on the St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services webiste.

Finding support

Remember if you’re struggling this Christmas, you’re not alone. There are places you can turn to for help. You can call or text Samaritans on 116 123 who are there to talk to you 24/7, 365 days a year – even on Christmas Day.

You can also get in touch with St Patrick’s Mental Health Services Support & Information line on 01 249 3333 for information and support if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Find out more at www.stpatricks.ie/be-present