Supporting Mental Health This Festive Season
The word safety often brings to mind physical protection – keeping ourselves safe from harm, accidents, or danger.
As we approach the festive season, it’s also essential to think about mental safety – the emotional and psychological security that helps us navigate life’s challenges, particularly during times of increased stress or isolation, like Christmas and New Year.
Reaching out for help
This time of year, can be a joyful time for many, but it can also trigger feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and overwhelming pressure. The demands of social events, family expectations, and financial stress can take a toll on our mental wellbeing. For some, it can bring up difficult emotions or memories, making it a time when mental health support is especially important.
For those who may be struggling, feeling mentally safe means knowing that help is available, especially when services may be less accessible.
In the UK, NHS 111 offers a vital service for mental health support through Option 2 that launched earlier this year. It is a direct line to professionals who can provide guidance and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week.
NHS 111, Option 2 offers
- Immediate Support: You’ll speak with a trained mental health professional who will listen to your concerns, offer advice, and provide coping strategies.
- Guidance and Reassurance: They’ll signpost you to local mental health services
or direct you to more urgent care. - Crisis Management: In more serious situations, they can escalate your call to
ensure you receive immediate assistance from emergency services.
So, as we celebrate this festive season, let’s prioritize both physical and mental safety. Reaching out, whether it’s through talking to someone, accessing support, or seeking professional care, ensures that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to call NHS 111. Stay safe, stay supported and be reminded that your mental wellbeing matters.
Rochelle Strath
MBS Marketing Team
