YOU are probably like us and wondering how the past year has gone so quick but alas here we are – well and truly into the festive season!
If you are anything like the rest of us then we know you can’t wait to spend time catching up with friends and family and being festive and merry in every sense of the word.
We are here to provide a guide to a healthier Christmas, so you can make the most of the celebrations whilst also looking after your health.
Mental health: Remember its ok to say no. Allow yourself some “me time” away from everyone. Decline an invitation or take a “tradition” off the list. Remember to check in on those who may be vulnerable this time of year. Catch up with those that you most want to spend time with. Use the time to review your social media and unfollow any pages that are no longer of use to you or don’t make you feel good about yourself. If you are the one who usually does the planning, preparing and executing of all things festive – remember it’s your holiday too.
Eating: Aim to maintain structure, eat regular meals and snacks according to your hunger and fullness signs. Include some “everyday” foods into your every day. Enjoy local fresh produce such as stonefruit, nuts or locally made dressings and relishes – you can incorporate these into your Christmas meals (as well and your Christmas gifts). Some festive treats are only available at this time of year so take the time to savour the flavour. If you are given gifts of chocolates or cookies, you can choose to eat and enjoy them now or save them until later when you feel like them most.
Drinking: Try to be well hydrated before you head out and keep your water intake up throughout the festive period. Avoid being in a “shout”, allowing you to drink alcohol at your own pace. Try to intersperse alcoholic drinks with water. Always drink alcohol in moderation. You could choose to not drink alcohol every time – try a new mocktail or soft drink instead!
Physical activity: It can be a very busy time of year, but try to schedule in some physical activity that you enjoy for the benefits of your mental health as well as your physical health. Try meeting a friend for a Christmas catch up to walk along the river, around the local market or to window shop up the street. Give a new class a go it might become part of your routine in the new year. Get outdoors as often as you can (remember to stay SunSmart).
Remember rest is good too. Most importantly, enjoy every moment with family and friends so you can come back a rested, healthy, happy you in 2025!
SHDH Counselling Services
Our services are closed from December 25 and will re-open on January 2, 2025. Should you need support during the holiday period, the following helplines are available:
Griefline: 1300 845 745
DirectLine (alcohol or other drug issues): 1800 888 236
LIFELINE: 13 11 14
BeyondBlue: 1300 224 636
Headspace Swan Hill
Our services are closed from December 25 and will re-open on January 2, 2025. Should you need support during the holiday period, the following helplines are available:
Eheadspace.org.au – chat 1-on-1 via online chat or email
Eheadspace – 1800 650 890
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
13YARN (24/7 crises support line for Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander)
LIFELINE: 13 11 14
BeyondBlue: 1300 224 636
Swan Hill Primary Health Medical Centre
Our Medical Centre will be open normal hours every day except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. On December 24 we will close at 4.30pm and on January 2 we will open 9am-12noon. Please head to hotdocs to make an appointment- https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/swan-hill-VIC-3585/swan-hill-district-health/doctors or contact the clinic on 03 5033 9900
