KEY POINTS:
Christmas shoppers are being advised to avoid the crowds for the sake of their stress levels.
The Mental Health Foundation is offering 12 steps to help make the lead up to Christmas a little more enjoyable.
Chief Executive Judi Clements says taking time out especially for shopping is important. She says it is a good idea to plan shopping for times when the shops are quieter.
Ms Clements people can become plagued with the problems associated with stress before Christmas, which include not sleeping well, headaches and digestive upsets. She says problems which start before Christmas often flow on into the New Year.
The Mental Health Foundation's 12 step plan is:
On the first day of Christmas - Decide how you would like to celebrate Christmas this year. If an elaborate meal, and a house full of relatives and guests are not your idea of a perfect day, maybe this is the year to make some changes.
On the second day of Christmas - Plan ahead and agree with family members and friends where you will go, what presents you will buy, and what sort of food you will have.
On the third day of Christmas - Set a Christmas budget and stick to it. Keep things in proportion. It is not good for your mental health to start the New Year worrying about how to get back into the black.
On the fourth day of Christmas - Avoid the Christmas crowds. Unless you thrive on crowded shops and queues, try to shop at quieter times. It may be worth taking a days annual leave before Christmas to use the time to cross things off your Christmas list.
On the fifth day of Christmas - Take time out each day for some relaxation Get a massage, pamper yourself or read a bit of your favourite book to unwind.
On the sixth day of Christmas - Get moving physical activity lifts your mood and can reduce stress. Walk outdoors, dance at Christmas parties, or go for a swim. Make the most of our beaches, parks and gardens and get out into the natural environment.
On the seventh day of Christmas - Remember others. With one in five people experiencing mental illness at some point in their life, there is bound to be someone on your Christmas card list who is not feeling festive. Give them a call. The support of friends can be really helpful, so stay in touch.
On the eighth day of Christmas - Monitor your drinking. This is the time of year when the booze begins to flow. Too much alcohol can make you irritable, tired, affect relationships and add to depression.
On the ninth day of Christmas - Do not drive when you are tired, stressed or have been drinking. Know where the dial-a-driver services are or make sure you have a designated driver.
On the 10th day of Christmas - Stress can contribute to mental health problems such as depression and sometimes grief for loved ones who are not with us at Christmas can emerge. If you are vulnerable to stress or are close to someone who is, make sure you have someone you trust to talk to and phone numbers for support such as Lifeline, Youthline or the depression support line 0800 111 757.
On the 11th day of Christmas - Do not be lonely. If you will be alone this Christmas why not find out about community activities and get-togethers in your local area? There may be volunteering opportunities in hospitals or rest homes where Christmas is a shared event. This can be a way of being with others at Christmas and helping at the same time.
On the 12th day of Christmas - Have fun! Remember it does not have to be perfect. If you are having a family gathering and you know that some people do not see eye to eye, be realistic and minimise conflict. Try not to put pressure on yourself to keep everyone happy. Christmas is for everyone and that includes you!
- Newstalk ZB
