NHS's annual mental health report reveals over 3 million people in England were in contact with secondary mental health, learning disabilities and autism services at some point during the financial year 2021-22.
With 992,647 of those people under 18 years of age, this is a 16.2% increase from the previous year.
Martin Preston, Founder and Chief Executive at Private Rehab Clinic Delamere has shared seven key ways one can safeguard their mental health during the festive season.
With work Christmas parties and festive family gatherings soon to be in full swing, it can be quite difficult to make time for yourself.
As lovely as catching up with friends and family can be, constantly being surrounded by people may lead to feeling socially drained - especially if they've got any personal issues they are dealing with.
Therefore, it is important to strike a balance and ensure you are still allocating yourself some solid 'me time' in the midst of all the festive fun.
From reducing stress levels to easing anxious thoughts, engaging in arts and crafts can have very positive effects on your mental health.
During the festive season, perhaps try making some festive DIY Christmas decorations to feature in your home. As well as the mental benefits this provides, you'll also be saved from spending your money on store-bought decorations.
During the festive season, it's common for people to post about what they're up to. For individuals that are spending Christmas alone, or perhaps mourning the loss of a relative, seeing the upbeat festive content of others can be especially difficult.
What's more, many fall into the habit of making comparisons through what they see on social media, and this leads to people not appreciating what they do have. With this in mind, taking a break from social media over Christmas may do wonders for your wellbeing.
Due to shorter days and dark nights, it can be difficult to find the motivation to stay active. However, keeping fit is very important, especially if you tend to struggle with your mental health over the festive period. Even something as little as going out for a walk in the fresh air everyday will make you feel better.
Delamere's recent drug and alcohol survey found that one in twelve Brits confessed that they used alcohol to diminish depressing thoughts. As we head into the festive season, it is expected that many people will continue to over-indulge on the booze - but doing this will have a negative impact on your wellbeing.
This is because heavy drinking interferes with chemicals in the brain that regulate mental health. While a drink may relax us, it's important to know that overconsumption of alcohol can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety in the long run.
Whether they are near or far, always try to confide in loved ones if you are struggling. If the festive season is especially tough for you, make sure your friends and family are aware of this.
For instance, you could inform them of certain triggers that have a negative impact on your mental health, so they can try their best to help you avoid these this Christmas. By simply voicing your concerns, you'll find that such a weight will be lifted, making you feel like you aren't struggling alone.
The beauty of helping others is that this act of kindness will make you feel good about yourself. From The Salvation Army to various food banks, there are numerous causes you can contribute to over the festive period. It's the season of giving, after all!
GENEVA (5 December 2022) – UN Special Rapporteur Siobhán Mullally will assess the situation of trafficking in persons during an official visit to South Sudan from 5 to 14 December 2022.
Mullally will examine trafficking for purposes of sexual exploitation, forced labour, child and forced marriage, including among refugees, internally displaced persons and returnees. She will also check risks of trafficking arising from climate-related displacement. The Special Rapporteur will visit Juba, Bentiu and Nimule and will meet representatives of Government, law enforcement, UN officials, civil society and survivors of trafficking in persons.
Mullally will hold a press conference to share preliminary observations on Wednesday 14 December at 11:00am at UNDP Compound, Plot 21, Ministries Road, Juba. Access will be strictly limited to journalists.
The Special Rapporteur will present a full report on the country visit to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2023. - United Nations
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