Festive season blues: Help is just a call or text away

THE festive season is often portrayed as a time of joy, connection and celebration, but for many, this time of year can bring feelings of sadness, loneliness, stress or grief.

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) understands that the festive season is not joyful for everyone and wants to remind you that help is always available.

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The holidays can be difficult for individuals dealing with grief after losing a loved one, financial stress, or strained family relationships.

For others, the isolation of not having family nearby or the anxiety of social gatherings can make the holidays feel daunting instead of joyful.

It’s important for everyone to know that these feelings are valid, and help is available.

Coping with the festive season blues

If you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, here are some practical tips to help you navigate the holidays:
• Acknowledge your feelings: It’s okay to not feel festive. Give yourself permission to experience your emotions without judgement
• Stay connected: Reach out to a friend, family member, or support group. You don’t have to go through this alone
• Set realistic expectations: Avoid the pressure to meet everyone’s expectations. Focus on what feels manageable for you. You don’t have to attend every event or gathering you are invited to
• Take care of yourself: Eat well, rest, and engage in activities that bring you comfort and peace
• Create new traditions: If old traditions bring pain, try something new that feels meaningful to you
• Seek professional support: If your feelings of sadness or stress feel unmanageable and overwhelming, talk to a professional such as a GP, psychologist, registered counsellor, social worker, or call SADAG for help.

How to contact SADAG:
• Toll-free Helpline: 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789 (24 hours, 365 days a year) for free, confidential telephonic counselling. These numbers are toll-free so the call is free from any landline or cell number
• SMS counselling: Send an SMS to 31393 and a counsellor will call you back (available 24 hours a day)
• WhatsApp support: Send a message to 087 1632030 (8am – 5pm, 7 days a week) and chat live to a SADAG counsellor for free online help
• Online support groups: Visit www.sadag.org for a list of online and in-person free support groups that are open throughout the festive season.

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