While the holiday season can represent joy, gratitude, and togetherness, it can also be associated with family and financial pressure, loneliness, anxiety and tension. Even if you look forward to the holidays, it’s normal to experience periods of stress or difficulty.
As part of the University's mental wellbeing support, all students also have 24/7 access to Togetherall, an online community where people share with and support one another anonymously. Sign up to access self-guided group and individual courses, a library of useful articles and resources, and one-on-one therapy delivered through web appointments.
Togetherall’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Ben Locke PhD, has some top tips on coping during the holidays.
- Come up with a plan. Write down the days you’ll be surrounded by people or havea lot going on. Think through the days that might be tough and identify when you’ll need extra support or breaks.
- Identify the people and resources you want to use for support. Talk with these people beforehand or investigate a resource and define strategies for coping.
- Develop a list of coping skills and think about when you’ll use them: Talk with people who understand, like in the Togetherall community; Take a nap; Go for a walk in your favourite location or with someone who helps you feel better; Try to meditate in a way that works for you and will help you to feel calm and gain perspective.
- Allow yourself to be in the moment. Rather than comparing your experiences, feelings and relationships to others, allow yourself to be present in your life without judgement.
- Remember, Togetherall is available anytime and anywhere. 24 hours a day. 365 days of the year
Find out more about mental wellbeing support from the University on the Student Hub. You can also contact the Student Centre in person at the Welcome Desk, by phone (01273 075700), or online via the My Sussex portal, where you can book an appointment to visit our friendly advisors.