The Silent Struggle
December 11, 2023
The festive season, while joyous for many, can be a challenging time for some residents in rural and regional Victoria. The isolation that characterizes these areas is often exacerbated during Christmas, contributing to mental health issues.
In our close-knit communities, the pressure to conform to the traditional festive cheer can intensify feelings of loneliness and isolation for those who may not have close family ties or a robust support system. The absence of bustling city activities leaves some feeling disconnected and excluded.
Cost of living and other economic hardships may also amplify stress during the holidays. Financial strains can lead to heightened anxiety, as families grapple with the pressure to provide a memorable Christmas despite tight budgets.
Furthermore, the stigma surrounding mental health in smaller communities may deter individuals from seeking help. Limited access to mental health services compounds this issue, and many feel they have little or no support.
If you struggle through this period, here are 5 tips to help you get through Christmas:
- Community Connection: Engage with local community events and support networks. Attend Christmas gatherings or volunteer for festive activities to foster connections and combat feelings of isolation. Local community centers or online platforms may provide information on events and opportunities.
- Financial Planning: Farmers and small business owners can seek assistance from the financial and wellbeing counsellors at RFCS (1300 735 578). Individuals may seek assistance from local financial counseling services and organizations like the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) can offer advice to individuals and help them make informed decisions.
- Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or local mental health services for support. Initiatives like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) and Lifeline (13 11 14) provide confidential counseling and resources, ensuring individuals don’t face their challenges alone. See more support services below.
- Embrace Technology: Leverage technology to bridge distances. Connect with loved ones through video calls or social media to maintain a sense of closeness, especially if physical travel is challenging. Online support groups may also provide a virtual community for those facing similar experiences.
- Self-Care Practices: Prioritize self-care by incorporating simple daily routines that promote mental well-being. This could include regular exercise, mindfulness exercises, or engaging in hobbies. Resources like Head to Health (headtohealth.gov.au) offer information on mental health and well-being strategies.
It’s important to note that these tips are general suggestions, and individuals should tailor their approach based on their unique circumstances. Seeking professional advice and support is encouraged for those facing significant challenges during the Christmas period.
| Lifeline | 13 11 14 |
| Lifeline Text | 0477 13 11 14 |
| Suicide Call Back | 1300 659 467 |
| Kids Helpline | 1800 551 800 |
| Mensline Australia | 1300 789 978 |
| Carer Support | 1800 242 636 |
| 13 Yarn | 13 92 76 |
| headtohealth.gov.au |
| blackdoginstitute.org.au |
| ruok.org.au |
| reachout.com |
| letstalkaustralia.org |
| embracementalhealth.org.au |
| The Imperfects | Podcast | |
| Make me Feel Good (ABC) | Podcast | |
| Mindfully (ABC) | Podcast | |
| Good Humans | Podcast (Apple) | Podcast (Spotify) |
| Just Sleep | Podcast |
