Your festive survival guide: 5 practical tips
Christmas is coming. But is it always 'the most wonderful time of the year'?
For many of us, it’s a chance to celebrate and connect with loved ones. Yet, it can also stir up complicated emotions like stress, loneliness, or financial worries.
The Bank Workers Charity have shared a five-point guide to help navigate the ups and downs of the holidays, plus an advent calendar full of tips for a healthier, happier Christmas.
Here's 5 tips for avoiding burnout and stress over the festive season:
- Prioritise what matters most: Focus your energy on the traditions and people that bring you joy. Let go of unnecessary expectations and say no to activities that add stress or pressure.
- Budget for the holidays: Prices are rising, and Christmas can be costly. Plan your spending early and stick to it. Talk to friends and family – together, you could find ways to cut back. For other ideas, check out Money Helper.
- Take a breather: The festive rush can be overwhelming – don't forget you need some respite. Schedule downtime to relax, reflect, or recharge, even if it’s just a 10-minute walk or enjoying a cup of tea in peace.
- Manage tricky family dynamics: Family gatherings can be stressful. Be clear about your boundaries, like avoiding certain topics. If tensions rise, step away for a breather, and remember it’s okay to leave early if it protects your peace of mind.
- Reach out for support: If you’re struggling, don’t face it alone. Talk to someone you trust or contact organisations like Mind or Samaritans for a listening ear and guidance.
Keeping well this Christmas
The Bank Workers Charity 'Countdown to Christmas' calendar is packed with daily actions to help us prioritise our wellbeing by staying connected with loved ones, taking the time out to relax and practice self-care, manage feelings of stress and anxiety, and much more.
Use the BWC calendar in the run up to Christmas, and put self-care at the top of your to-do list.
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December opening hours
The Bank Workers Charity helpline will be closed from 2pm on 24 December until the 2nd of January 2025.
Until then you can speak with an adviser on 0800 0234 834 or head over to their website to use Live Chat. They’re available Monday to Friday between 9am-5pm (except bank holidays).
For support while the Bank Workers Charity is closed, here's some useful contacts:
- Samaritans: If you need someone to talk to, call 116 123 anytime for free.
- PAM Wellbeing's Emotional Support Line: Register here to talk things through with a professional counsellor.
- Age UK: Support and information for older people, available 8am–7pm every day – call 0800 678 1602.
- Cruse: Struggling with grief this Christmas? Call 0808 808 1677 for advice and support.
- Shout: A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone who is struggling to cope – text 85258.
- Switchboard: Support for LGBTQ+ communities, open 365 days a year – call 0800 0119 100.
- Trussell Trust: Providing emergency food and support for those in need – call 0808 208 2138.
- StepChange: Get free debt advice anytime via their online tools at StepChange.org.
