Coping with Holiday Stress

“For some, this time of year can bring up difficult memories, like the loss of loved ones or past traumatic events such as bushfires or ongoing recovery from floods. For others, the season can amplify feelings of loneliness and the financial expectations of gift giving can also increase stress,” Ms. Reay said.

“It’s important to remind people that there are things they can do in their everyday life to make sure they are looking after their mental health over this period,” she said.

“We asked Daniel Angus, our Clinical Advisor Primary Care - Mental Health, who is a psychologist and is also a Deputy Commissioner of the NSW Mental Health Commission, to identify some of the key stressors during the season and provide some strategies that may help people cope,” said Ms Reay.

According to Daniel, financial stress, family issues, loss and grief, loneliness and isolation, and anniversaries of natural disasters are some of the key issues that can cause stress and anxiety this time of year.

“Daniel has recommended the following tips to help maintain wellbeing throughout this festive holiday,” said Ms Reay.

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