How was Christmas for you?
Christmas and Mental Wellbeing
Christmas can mean very different things to different people: joy and connection for some, but for others it can bring stress, grief, financial pressure, loneliness, relationship breakdown, or concerns about young people.
Wellbeing and mental health
Wellbeing and mental health are always important topics, and the festive season often highlights just how vital it is to keep talking about them.
A local counselling professional explores below some of the questions many people quietly ask themselves at this time of year.
Q: Why does Christmas provoke such strong emotions?
A: Christmas often amplifies what is already present in our lives. For some, it’s warmth, laughter, and connection. For others, it can bring pressure, reminders of loss, financial strain, or relationship difficulties. All of these experiences are valid. The key is recognising how you’re feeling and allowing yourself compassion, rather than comparing your experience to others or feeling you should feel a certain way.
Q: How would you describe the challenges people are facing in our local community right now?
A: People are navigating a wide range of pressure: balancing family expectations, managing finances, caring for others, and coping with change. What we’ve seen time and again is that when people have a safe space to talk, they can begin to rebuild routines, strengthen relationships, and rediscover hope, even during difficult seasons.
Q: What about children and young people? Their struggles aren’t always obvious.
A: Often, those closest to a young person sense when something isn’t quite right. Early signs might include persistent sadness, withdrawal, heightened anxiety, changes in behaviour, or increased family conflict. Some of these can look like normal ups and downs, but when they continue over time or start affecting daily life, it may be a sign that extra support or guidance could be helpful.
Q: How can someone with financial concerns access support without overcommitting?
A: It’s important that support feels accessible, not like another source of stress. Flexible options can help, such as spacing sessions bi-weekly or monthly, or starting with a short introductory package. Many services also offer an initial consultation to explore whether support feels right and to discuss options before making any commitment. Mental health support should feel supportive, not pressured.
The replies are taken from answers from Teresa Lewis, a professional therapist from ‘Blossom Counselling Company’ which is in beautiful Market Harborough.
If you think therapy is for you you can visit www.blossomscounsellingco.co.uk (telephone 07951 862 205 or email them enquiries@blossomcounsellingco.co.uk). They even offer 30 minute free consultation to see if therapy is right for you. Remember you are important and how you feel matters.
