Crisis at Christmas

We understand that the Christmas period can be a joyful time for many, but it can also feel overwhelming, lonely, or difficult for others.

If you are struggling or finding things particularly hard this festive season, please remember you are not alone. Our team is here to support you, and we encourage you to reach out if you need help, advice, or someone to talk to. 

Self-help tips for the Festive Period

 • Keep active and get outside for some fresh air – even when it’s chilly

 • Get enough rest and sleep to keep your energy levels up

 • Don’t compare your celebrations to others’, especially the things people post on social media…remember: they only share the best bits!

 • Manage your expectations and be realistic. Having an expectation of perfection can lead to disappointment, especially with the financial difficulties that the winter months may bring

 • Limit your alcohol intake. Drinking within government guidelines means you can still enjoy a festive tipple with less negative effects on physical and mental wellbeing

 • Eat well and try to keep your diet balanced, but don’t punish yourself too much for having that extra mince pie, pig in blanket or chocolate!

 • Plan ahead to avoid stress. Prepare what you can in advance and don’t take on too much. If buying presents online, factor in the Christmas delay that many delivery services experience at this time of year

 • Keep a to-do-list of things you need to get done – everything is much clearer when it’s written down

 • Prioritise self-care and give yourself a present. It may be some time to relax, doing an activity that helps you reduce stress, buying a book you’ve been meaning to read, signing up to a course you’re interested in or reconnecting with old friends

 • Ask for help or delegate tasks, and talk to someone if you’re feeling overwhelmed e.g. family members, friends or mental health services

 • As the year comes to an end, celebrate the small things you have been grateful for and the resilience you have developed through the year. Try setting yourself a small goal for the coming year

 • Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to enjoy the celebrations and spend time with your loved ones where possible

Talking Therapies Support

DHC Talking Therapies offer free, confidential support for those experiencing mental health 
difficulties such as stress, low mood, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, 
phobias, panic attacks and post-traumatic stress.  
 
Support is available throughout Surrey for people 17+ who are registered with a Surrey GP.  
 
DHC Talking Therapies offers: 
• Counselling and CBT approaches 
▪ One-to-one or group sessions 
▪ Telephone or video sessions 
▪ In person appointments  
▪ Silvercloud online CBT learning 
 
Open Monday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm and Fridays 8am to 6pm 
 
You can contact DHC Talking Therapies on 01483 906 392 and can self-refer for support via 
the website at www.dhctalkingtherapies.co.uk .  
 
DHC Talking Therapies is one of f our providers in Surrey. For further information on other 
local Talking Therapies services, including how to refer, please visit the Healthy Surrey 
Website: www.healthysurrey.org.uk/mental-wellbeing/local-services/talking-therapies 

Published on 4 December 2025