Hints and tips for Christmas
Guernsey Mind is a charity that supports the people of the Bailiwick, encouraging a positive attitude towards mental health and wellbeing.
We have put together a short list of hints and tips as well as some local contacts for the festive period.
Manage your expectations
Release yourself from negative feelings by accepting you can’t change how others behave and concentrate on what you can control. It’s ok to prioritise what’s best for you. Set your boundaries and don’t be afraid to say no to things that aren’t helpful for you.
Everything in moderation
It’s easy to eat and drink too much over Christmas. Learn to know when you’re at the point of having too much of a good thing and balance nights out and heavy meals with a few lighter days to give your body a break.
Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep impacts us all, so try to stick to your normal sleep routine and get a few early nights.
Look after yourself
Allow yourself to take a break if you find your stress levels rising. Go for a walk, go for a coffee or listen to music - whatever will help you to relax or unwind. A little light exercise is a great way to boost ‘feel good’ hormones such as serotonin, which have a positive effect on your mood. Make a list... the physical act of writing things down can help you feel clearer. See thelist.gg for more hints and tips on looking after yourself.
Talk to someone
Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by our feelings. Reach out if you feel like things are getting too much, whether you seek the support of a friend or family member or a professional organisation.
Let people know you’re struggling. It can often feel like it’s just you when it’s not.
Guernsey Mind Christmas hours
We will be open at certain times over the Christmas holidays but with reduced staff. Our phone messages and info@guernseymind.org.gg email will be monitored during our open office hours.
- Fri 23 - Tue 27 Dec - CLOSED
- Wed 28 - Thurs 29 Dec - Open but limited staff availability
- Fri 30 Dec - Mon 2 Jan - CLOSED
- Tue 3 Jan - Normal hours
Where to go
You are not alone this Christmas. There are always places available for help and support.
Guernsey Welfare Service
Open until Friday 23rd December and then closed until 3rd January. Contact: 07839 724300 or info@welfare.gg
MIND drop-ins at Shiloh Church
Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-12pm Open until Tuesday 20th December and then closed until New Year
Salvation Army
Annual Christmas Day lunch at La Picquerel (L’islet) for up to 70 people. Activities are free to anyone who will be on their own on this Christmas day.
- Christmas Morning Carol Service 10:30am
- Coffee/Tea 11:30am
- Lunch will be served after 12 noon
- After lunch entertainments
- The King’s speech 3pm
- Gifts and goodies before it’s time to go home
Contact Major Andrew at Guernsey@salvationarmy.org.uk or phone 07781 124404. Transport is available if required.
Holy Trinity
Christmas Day lunch from 12.00- 3.00pm. Sign up by ringing the church office on 724319
Mill Street Community Café
Christmas Day lunch from 12.00- 3.00pm. Call 01481 712138 email: hello@millstreet.cafe website: https://millstreet.cafe
Support in Alderney
There are many groups that will continue to run over Christmas including Yoga, Pilates, Babes & Bumps, Toddler Group and Karate. People in Alderney can also contact Guernsey Mind.
