The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, fellowship and joy. It is a time when families come together to celebrate, share traditions and create cherished memories.
However, for people affected by complex mental health issues and their caregivers, the season can bring a unique set of challenges. These are discussed, with strategies for how to manage them.
FEEL ALONE IN YOUR FAMILY
One of the biggest challenges people with mental illness face during the holidays is feeling isolated, even when surrounded by family. It’s not uncommon for those with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia to feel cut off from the holiday spirit, despite being in the presence of loved ones. Here are several reasons why:
Social stigma: The pervasive social stigma surrounding mental illness can cause
people who are reluctant to open up about their struggles. This can lead to a sense of isolation, even among family members who may not fully understand their experiences.
High expectations: The pressure to be “cheerful and bright” at the holidays can be overwhelming. People with mental health problems may feel forced to put on a facade, reinforcing their feelings of loneliness.
Insufficient support: Family members may not be equipped to provide the necessary support and understanding, leading to a sense of disconnection and frustration.
Strategies to overcome isolation
COMMUNICATE: Your mental health can fluctuate every day, even often during the day. Some days and times are better than others. So, anytime you’re struggling, be open with family members or close friends about your feelings and needs. Just letting it be known that you’re not feeling well right now can take the pressure off yourself and help others understand you better.
Set limits: Be proactive in setting boundaries and managing the expectations others may have of you. Also, be realistic about the expectations you set for yourself. It’s perfectly okay to refuse social gatherings or limit your participation to avoid excessive stress.
Seek support: Look for support groups or online communities of people who share similar experiences. Connecting with people who can relate to your challenges can reduce feelings of isolation.
Support groups can be found at the following organizations:
CARE CHALLENGES
Caring for a loved one with a mental illness can be emotionally and physically demanding, and holidays can add stress and pressure to caregivers. Here are some of the common challenges they face:
Balancing Care and Celebrations: Caregivers often find themselves torn between their caring responsibilities and the desire to participate in family celebrations. This can lead to feelings of guilt and frustration.
Emotional Toll: Watching a loved one struggle with their mental health can be emotionally draining. The holiday season can intensify these feelings, making it a particularly difficult time for caregivers.
Lack of support: Caregivers may not receive the recognition and support they need from other family members. This can exacerbate anxiety and feelings of isolation and resentment.
Strategies for Caregivers
Self care: Remember that you must take care of yourself in order to effectively take care of others. Make time for self-care activities, even if it means stepping away from the festivities for a while. You must ignore any feelings of guilt or pressing thoughts about your obligations.
Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to friends and family members for support with caregiving tasks, allowing yourself some respite.
Connect with others: Consider joining a support group for caregivers. Sharing your experiences with others who understand your challenges can be incredibly comforting and enlightening.
Online and telephone counseling support for carers can be found at:
The holidays can be both a time of joy and a time of tremendous challenge for people affected by mental illness and their caregivers.
Feeling isolated among family members during the holiday season is common, but can be addressed through open communication, setting boundaries and seeking support.
Caregivers, too, can cope with the challenges of the season by prioritizing self-care, seeking help, and connecting with others facing similar challenges.
Dr Carissa Coulston is a Clinical Psychologist with specialist knowledge in the areas of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, personality disorders, traumatic brain injury and neurological conditions.
