Self-care tips for staying well over the festive period

We spoke to Jessica, one of TALKWORKS Trainee Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners, about how we can look after our mental and physical health over the Christmas period. In the blog post below, she shares her top tips for how she stays well during the winter months, while emphasising the importance of self-care and talking to others if you are struggling.

“While it is important to prioritise our mental wellbeing, we often find ourselves distracted by the festivities in the run up to Christmas. Therefore during the winter period, practising self-care can help us to feel happier. Whether you are at work, with family, on your own or with friends, it’s so important to look after yourself and your own mental health. As an NHS clinician, I have put together some helpful wellbeing ideas and activities to support you through the festive period.

"Firstly, I tell myself it is okay to miss the lightness in the sky when the evenings get longer, and the days get shorter. I have changed my perspective and now I look forward to the sun setting early – it gives me an excuse to put on some dazzling lights and settle in with a hot chocolate to lift my mood!

"Secondly, when thinking of foods I like to eat during this period, I look for festive dishes that I can make at home. I’ve found it to be more cost effective, plus it gives me things to look forward to. You can’t beat a lovely camembert or home cooked roast potatoes at the weekend! This can be very enjoyable during the winter period with a Christmas movie or festive series to watch.

"My third tip is to head out for a winter walk! Although they can be chilly, nothing feels better than the fresh cool air reflecting on your face on a sunny winter day! I really enjoy going out with my two cocker spaniels who love getting wet and muddy on our winter walks. Walking is a great way to get active in the cold weather, plus there are plenty of benefits of exercise for both your mental and physical health.

"Finally, if you are experiencing depression or low mood, or are feeling more anxious than usual, I encourage you to reach out. As a clinician myself, I know how difficult it can be to talk about how you are feeling, but speaking to a friend, family member, stranger, or a service like TALKWORKS can help. Sharing what you are going through can help you to feel less alone.

"I hope you all have a wonderful winter period and take care of yourselves.”

How can TALKWORKS help if you are struggling?

TALKWORKS, Devon’s NHS Talking Therapies Service, offers a range of different treatment and support options to help adults, age 18+, across Devon (excluding Plymouth, which is covered by NHS Plymouth Talking Therapies).

This includes:

• Low mood and depression
• Anxiety (social anxiety and health anxiety)
• Stress (including work-related stress)
• Sleep difficulties
• Specific phobias (including a fear of needles, driving, spiders etc)
• Emotional eating
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Prolonged grief

We also tailored treatment and support available for those impacted by the menopause and specific treatment options for new and expectant parents; with a priority service for pregnant mothers and new fathers. Our TALKWORKS Talking Health Team will offer support for adults living with a long term physical health condition, including (but not limited to) diabetes, chronic pain and long COVID.

You can self-refer to TALKWORKS without needing to see a doctor or healthcare professional by completing our online self-referral form or by calling the team on 0300 555 3344. Waiting times for appointments are short, with therapy sessions available Monday to Friday (early morning and evening appointments are available to book). 

How can I access emergency mental health support over Christmas?

TALKWORKS is not a crisis or emergency service. If you need urgent mental health support, you can get help from 111 online or call 111 and select the 'mental health' option. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You can also contact the Samaritans by calling 116 123 or you can reach out to Mental Health Matters Devon by calling 0800 4700317.