If You Are Reading This, You Are Not Alone

The Christmas holidays can be a lonely and challenging time for many people.

If you are experiencing it this year, you are not alone.

In fact, a recent survey reveals extraordinary numbers of people are feeling lonely this Christmas time.

Recent research reported on the Mind mental health charity's website reveals that a quarter of people feel unable to ask for help when struggling emotionally, one in ten people consider taking their own life because of the festive period and one in five people feel like they have nowhere to turn for support.

There is a great deal of pressure to celebrate, even if you may not feel like celebrating. The added stress of 'shoulds, duties and expectations' can increase feelings of depression and anxiety. Financial pressure may also be a factor, if you are feeling overwhelmed.

If you are feeling isolated or alone, there are some places that might help:

- The Samaritans line is free and open 24/7 for support: call 116 123. Offering emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.

- If you are into social media, comedian Sarah Millican organises the campaign #joinin on Christmas Day to connect people who are feeling lonely. Go to twitter and use the hashtag #joinin 

- For other sources of support, take a look at Mind's website where they have articles on mental health at Christmas, coping tips, blogs by others and an online community of people to talk to.

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I will be checking emails intermittently between 25th December - 1st January and aim to reply within 3 days during the holiday season. bryony@creativesoultherapies.com

Appointments available from 3rd January. 

Please follow the links above in the blog for immediate help and support, or call 999 in an emergency (UK).