‘It’s that time of year again!’ This phrase works its way into our conversations, TV adverts and social media feeds every year around now. It means something different to everyone but most of us can agree that December can be a lot to cope with. Having said that, there are things we can do to ease the pressure on ourselves to have the perfect Hallmark holiday season.

 

My December

For me, as a communications specialist, December equals busy. It’s a hectic time of year that always comes around too soon, no matter how much I prepare. I spend a lot of time thinking about how I and the team can best support the Foothold community at this time. What should we talk about? How do we get our message of support out in the best way?

But being immersed in work during the run-up to the holidays means that difficult feelings can sneak up on me without notice. Like 3 million other EU citizens in the UK, most of my family lives abroad. We usually fly back and forth for celebrations and reunions, but this year is different. I’m learning to be kinder to myself and remember that I’m not alone – many of us will be feeling lonely or isolated this December.

This time of year also reveals other pressures – money issues, mental health challenges, difficult relationships and more. To help, we’ve launched our December Support Hub.

 

What is December Support Hub?

At the end of 2019, we had an idea to put together a package of support for our community. We wanted it to be easily accessible, expert-led, and most of all – offer support with issues our community was struggling with at the time. By the end of 2019, more than 300 community members had downloaded our support materials. These ranged from dealing with anxiety over Christmas to talking Brexit over family dinner!

Following these encouraging results, we’re expanding the campaign this year. We believe that getting the right support makes a difference. The difference between crisis and coping, surviving and thriving, feeling alone and knowing you aren’t.

2020 has been a challenging year. But with the December Support Hub, our focus is on offering more expert support and ways for people to have a calmer, happier December. From wellbeing experts and people in the know, here’s what we have in store:

• Easing pressure on yourself
• Dealing with anxiety
• Reducing stress
• Coping with isolation

So if this time of year feels challenging for you, a bit of reassurance and support in the form of our December Support Hub might be just what you need. Click here to sign up.