Connect through the chaos of Christmas

MEDIA RELEASE
Sunday 9 December 2012

Connect through the chaos of Christmas, says Mental Health Foundation

This Christmas season, the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) is reminding New Zealanders to connect with each other - because we are stronger when we pull together.

While Christmas is for many a time of love, family, and festivity, some people find it a lonely and overwhelming occasion.

“The financial and social obligations that sometimes accompany Christmas can cause stress and anxiety,” says MHF chief executive, Judi Clements.

“Most people have time off from work and school over the Christmas period, so it is a great time to connect, or reconnect, with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours,” she says.

“Feeling isolated and lonely affects mental health and wellbeing, and we know people are more likely to feel this way at Christmastime. Strengthening and renewing relationships enriches lives and improves wellbeing.”

2012 has been a difficult year for many in New Zealand, especially for Cantabrians and those on the West Coast, who are still managing the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquakes and the Pike River mining tragedy.

“Connecting those who are struggling with support networks and people who can help is important,” says Ms Clements.

The MHF is also working closely with the Forget the Bling Bling, Do The Whānau Thing campaign to help New Zealanders celebrate Christmas without spending much (or any) money.

“It is important to support families so that they can enjoy the festive season with minimal stress and anxiety,” says Ms Clements.

The MHF will be helping New Zealanders find ways to connect this holiday season with a festive series on Facebook. We will be sharing an idea on how to have a connected, happy, and mentally healthy holiday every weekday until Christmas Eve.

Pick simple and manageable ways to connect during these holidays – here are some ideas:

• Ring or message friends you haven’t spoken to in a while
• Go to a local event – such as free concerts, movies in parks, and Christmas light displays
• Spread some festive cheer by writing holiday cards – especially to the people in your life who make life easier in little ways and may otherwise go unacknowledged, like your postie or rubbish collector
• Organise a get together with your neighbours
• Make contact with people in the community who might be feeling alone – let them know you care! A simple phone call or quick visit can make someone’s day
• Have an open door on Christmas day – think about the people you know who might be spending Christmas alone and invite them over
• Download some of Forget the Bling Bling, Do the Whanau Thing’s vouchers and give them to family and friends. An offer to walk the dog, mind the kids, or weed the garden will be a wonderful Christmas present, and a great way to connect

Give the gift of your time to the people in your life, this Christmas. It’s a gift that will keep on giving – and another one of the five ways to wellbeing.

MHF Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mentalhealthfoundationNZ

Bling Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Forget-the-bling-bling-do-the-whanau-thing/171172189632197
Five Ways to Wellbeing http://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/page/997-winning-ways
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