Coping at Christmas

Plan ahead

• If you get panic attacks from time to time, write a list of what helps you during these moments and keep it with you.
• Consider what you’ll need to cope if you’ll be spending the holidays somewhere unfamiliar. Is there anything you can do to make yourself feel more at ease? Is there a space where you can take a break?
• Certain places may make you feel uncomfortable, such as if they remind you of difficult experiences. Could you make a plan to spend less time in that location? Or just don’t go at all? Think about whether you really need to do things if you are not looking forward to them.
• Make a list of any useful services that you might need and their Christmas opening hours. You can find a list here
• Consider some ways to pass the time if you’re worried about feeling lonely or isolated this Christmas. Do something creative or spend time in nature, for example.
• If you are in a hospital or a care home over the holidays, check to see what activities you can take part in.
• If you can’t see the people you want to see in person, make a phone or video call to catch up with them on the day. Alternatively, if there is a time when you can meet, attempt to plan a visit over the Christmas season.
• Try to plan something nice to do after Christmas. Having something to look forward to could make a real difference.