Looking After Your Mental Health Over the Festive Period – And Supporting Those Who Support Us

The festive season is often painted as a time of joy, celebration, laughter and togetherness. But for many people, especially those working in high-pressure sectors like construction, it can also be a period of stress, loneliness, and emotional strain. It’s important to recognise that this time of year affects everyone differently, and prioritising our mental wellbeing is just as important as wrapping presents or preparing a festive feast.

Why the Festive Period Can Be Challenging

While lights twinkle and calendars fill up, the end of the year can bring:

• Financial stress — extra expenses for gifts, travel, and social events
• Social pressure — feeling “expected” to be merry or surrounded by loved ones
• Isolation — especially if you’re far from family or working long hours
• Reflection on the year — which can bring up disappointment or anxiety

How to Look After Your Mental Health Over the Festive Period

Here are practical ways to support your mental wellbeing during the holidays:

1. Be Realistic With Yourself – You don’t have to do it all. Set achievable plans and recognise that it’s okay to say no.

2. Maintain Routines Where Possible – Sleep, meals and exercise routines help keep your mind and body balanced even when everything else feels chaotic.

3. Stay Connected – Reach out to a friend, family member, colleague or whoever makes you feel supported. Sometimes a quick message or call means more than you think.

4. Give Yourself Downtime – It’s okay to spend time alone and recharge. Quiet moments can be restorative, not lonely.

5. Talk About How You’re Feeling – Talking doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. And talking to someone you trust removes the weight of carrying it all by yourself.

Supporting Mental Health Charities Like the Southern Wellness Action Group

While individual support is essential, there are organisations working tirelessly to support people — especially in industries where mental health challenges might be overlooked. One such charity we at Hawes Construction Group actively support is the Southern Wellness Action Group – (SWAG).

SWAG provides:

• Mental health support and advocacy for the construction industry
• Access to funded counselling
• Resources to help people recognise signs of stress and burnout

By supporting charities like SWAG, we can help:

• Ensure more people feel understood and supported
• Break down stigma around mental health in tough industries
• Provide vital services to workers and their families

How You Can Support SWAG and Mental Health Charities

Here are some meaningful ways to support these organisations over the festive season:

• Donate
• Volunteer Your Time
• Share Their Message
• Fundraise

Final Thoughts

Festive cheer doesn’t always come naturally and that’s ok. What does matter is that we look after ourselves and each other during this season and throughout the year. Small steps whether it’s taking a breath, reaching out, or supporting a charity like SWAG can make a big difference.

This festive season, let’s be kind to ourselves and to others. Let’s prioritise wellbeing, spread awareness, and ensure everyone has someone to lean on.