Belong To 12 Days of Self-Care

This is a fun time of year – sleigh, am I right? But we know from our work with LGBTQ+ young people that Christmas can also be a very challenging time for many – so no matter how you are feeling, know that it’s OK. And that there is support.  

We have created the 12 Days of Self Care campaign with tips that we can use to mind our wellbeing over the festive period.

Below you will find simple, practical tips and advice on looking after your mental wellbeing, and some 24/7 support services that are available over the holidays if you’re in need of some extra support. Remember, there is always someone there to talk to!

1. Take time out for yourself

Be your own best friend. If the noise and fun becomes too much at any time, feel free to step away for a while. Take some time in a quiet place on your own and be with your thoughts. Practice a little mindfulness, pay attention to your breath etc. Just some quiet time for you to switch off and rejoin people refreshed, when you’re ready. 

2. Write it down

Pen, paper, pour it all out onto the page. Get your thoughts out by writing – forget about punctuation and grammar, this can just be a stream of consciousness unloading your thoughts and letting them flow. This can help order what is in your head and bring a little calm. 

3. Remember that your feelings are valid

It’s okay to feel a lot of different things during the period. Films, social media and TV might tell us that we’re supposed to have a perfect Christmas, but that isn’t everyone’s reality. Many LGBTQ+ people face the same challenges, and you are not alone. Remember it’s OK to be feeling whatever you are feeling. 

4. Have something to look forward to

Make a plan for an activity or get together after Christmas, so you know there’s always something bright on the horizon. 

5. Listen to your favourite songs

– sing along and move your body. This year, Chappell Roan has put a smile on our faces! 

6. Get moving!

Walk, run, do yoga, dance, vogue… you do you! Get moving in whatever way you’re able to and enjoy. Movement has so many benefits from our mental health to physical health, but it’s easily forgotten during the Christmas break. 

7. Reach out for help

If you’re really struggling, and many of us do, reach out to a support service for a listening ear and friendly voice. Reaching out for help when you need it is a display of strength. Find a list of help lines and organisations who are there for you down below.

8. Do something new

It can be easy to get stuck in old patterns over Christmas, so consider trying something new. Take a walk you haven’t tried before, get a hot chocolate in a new café, or test out a new hobby. Remind yourself that things can always change and get better. You got this!  

9. Watch your favourite movie or tv show

– huddle under a cosy blanket, get a hot chocolate or tea and escape into your favourite film or TV show. Something light and optimistic can be the perfect escape. We’ve been loving ‘Heartstopper’ this year, or the Irish films ‘Handsome Devil’ and ‘Dating Amber’.  A perfect, cosy way to spend an afternoon.  

10. Read a book

Choose a genre of books that you love, and lose yourself in reading it over the Christmas period. Reading and our imaginations can be an escape. Losing ourselves temporarily in another world can help take you to another place as well as slow your mind. 

11. Stay in contact with friends

Text, call, arrange to meet up for a walk if you can. Stay in contact with people who you can be completely yourself with. And let them know if your struggling. Just saying how you feel can help take some of the strength out of the feelings.  

12. Think of others

Do you have an aunt who might be on there own a bit over the Christmas period who would appreciate a visit? An elderly family member? Is there someone who might need a little help around the house? Doing something for others helps take our mind of ourselves and boosts how we feel about ourselves. Try thinking of someone you can help, and help yourself in the process. 

Support services available over Christmas