DON'T STRESS THIS CHRISTMAS
19 December 2011
For most people, Christmas is a very happy time of the year. However for some it can be a very sad and lonely time, even a time of crisis.
For Lifeline’s 24 hour crisis support telephone line, 13 11 14, the days leading up to Christmas and then the New Year, are the busiest time of the year. The service receives a new call every 50 seconds during the festive period.
To assist the country to cope with Christmas, Lifeline is calling on all Australians to reach out to each other, and support those who may be in crisis and need a little extra help to cope this holiday season.
“This time of year can stir up many emotions in us, especially relationship issues, loneliness and financial pressures. We would like to remind all Australian’s that Lifeline’s 24 hour crisis support telephone line, 13 11 14, is available to everybody regardless of their location or issue,” Lifeline’s Director of Communications, Chris Wagner, said today.
On average, Lifeline speaks to over 1,400 people a day around Christmas and New Year, each call lasting around 20 minutes, and each with its own unique emotional crisis.
“This is a time of acute need for many in our community. We all need to support each other, which can be as simple as letting your family know that they can talk to you about anything, without fear, reprisal or judgement,” Chris said. “That’s why Lifeline is providing a few simple tips to help everyone cope with the pressure of the holidays.”
Lifeline’s fast tips for relieving the stress of the festive period
- Understand that it is common for people to feel stressed at this time of year
- Try not to expect too much – aiming for the “perfect” Christmas or assuming that everyone will be on their best behaviour may not be realistic
- Limit alcohol - there can be a temptation to drink too much at Christmas, but alcohol can fuel arguments and cause unwanted behaviour
- If you are feeling in crisis, tell someone, e.g. a trusted friend or family member, or talk to your GP, a counsellor, or call a helpline like Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Look after yourself physically. If you look after your body your mind will feel better too
- Where possible plan ahead to deal with stressful situations
- Know your limits and listen to your emotions. If you need to calm down, perhaps take a walk or find a quiet place
- If times are tough financially or for other reasons, make time to sit down as a family and plan a Christmas that is reasonable
- If you need support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or visit www.lifeline.org.au
“Nationally, Lifeline talks to over 450,000 people every year, this is made possible by a generous community and through many corporate donations, as well as our wonderful volunteers,” Chris said.
“We ask that people from all walks of life, if able, give generously and allow Lifeline to continue to support those who are in crisis. On behalf of Lifeline, I would like to wish you and your family a happy and safe Christmas and New Year.”
Lifeline has developed a range of self-help tool kits on various subjects including loss and grief, financial pressure, stress, suicide prevention and domestic violence.
These tool kits can be found on the Lifeline website - www.lifeline.org.au
If you or someone you know is experiencing an emotional crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Ends
For further comment contact:
Carly Bell on 0411 311 840