Last reviewed on 21 December 2020
After many months of uncertainty, the recent changes to the COVID-19 restrictions might have felt quite overwhelming. As London is now in Tier 4 (Stay at Home), you might have had to change your plans for Christmas and not be able to see your loved ones.
In a survey by Eden Project Communities earlier in December, almost two-thirds (63%) of people said that the COVID-19 restrictions have had a negative emotional impact on them and 40% admitted to feeling anxious this festive season.
As Eden Project Executive Director Peter Stewart says, “People feel under increasing strain over Christmas – they may not be able to see loved ones or might not feel they have people who care around them. There is lots we can do, simply having a chat and raising a smile with people who live nearby will increase the sense of community spirit, rekindling neighbourliness and could even help to alleviate someone’s loneliness.”
The #ChristmasTogether initiative by the NHS and Royal Voluntary Service echoes this sentiment, noting that, “A vaccine is coming, and hope is on the horizon, but first we have to get through the darkest and coldest months to come. Many people are feeling vulnerable, lonely or anxious. The Christmas spirit of connection and goodwill has never felt more important than it does right now.”
At the end of a challenging year, it’s important that you take time to focus on your mental wellbeing. In this article, we suggest 12 ways to do this over the festive season, including creating small moments of connection through technology and being kind to others. Please remember to follow the latest COVID-19 guidance from the UK Government.
Listen to Good Thinking’s podcast on loneliness and read our articles about five ways to good mental wellbeing and focusing on rewarding activities.