Are you worrying about how you can afford Christmas?
It is the first week of December, which only means one thing – the festive season is around the corner. Often this time of year can come with financial pressures, which can cause stress and anxiety if you are worried about how you can afford Christmas.
If you’re feeling under pressure, we want you to know that’s okay and our changing minds IAPT service is here to provide support if you need a helping hand to feeling like you again. We have included some advice on how you can support your mental wellbeing or support you to help others during this time of year.
- Set yourself a budget of what you are able to spend, be realistic about what money you have available.
- Be honest with your friends and family about your worries, think about what Christmas really means and there are other ways you can celebrate that does not involve spending money.
- If you are worried about your financial situation Money Advice Service is a good source of information and support.
- Write a list of everything you enjoy about Christmas that does not involve spending money
- Start a new tradition that does not have a financial consequence, go for a family walk, play a game together or just share positive memories about Christmas’s past. If you are unable to meet family remember to consider using technology to keep in touch.
Our Changing Minds IAPT team are here to support you, a loved one, friend or colleague in the run up to Christmas. The service is for anyone over the age of 17 and a half and living in Northamptonshire. Contact us on www.nhft.nhs.uk/iapt and complete the short online form or give us a call on 0300 999 1616 (9 to 5 weekdays).
For mental wellbeing support 24 hours a day, seven days a week contact NHFT and mental health charity Mind colleagues on 0800 448 0828. The mental health number is available existing users of NHFT services, anyone facing mental health problems or in a crisis.
For mental wellbeing support for children or young people please visit www.nhft.nhs.uk/camhslive or they can text their school nurse on 07507 329 600. To find out more about mental health services across Northamptonshire, visit: www.nhft.nhs.uk/mentalhealth