Community
Tips for coping with Mental Health challenges this Christmas
CHRISTMAS is often described as the “most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, it can be a challenging period that impacts mental health. Whether due to stress, loneliness, or financial strain, the festive season is not always a time of joy for everyone. To support those struggling this Christmas, Mind Cymru has shared carefully considered advice to help navigate the season.
Why Christmas Can Be Challenging
For some, the holiday season can feel overwhelming:
- Stress and Expectations: The pressure to celebrate amidst personal challenges.
- Difficult Memories: Reflecting on the past or worrying about the new year.
- Financial Strain: Rising costs making the season harder to enjoy.
Sue O’Leary, Director of Mind Cymru, explains:
“Christmas is a time to celebrate, but it can also be a time of year where our feelings are magnified, and not always in a positive way. Sometimes there are other, less joyous things going on in our lives that make taking time out to be ‘merry and bright’ feel like less of a celebration and more of a challenge. There are so many reasons why someone might not feel like celebrating this Christmas, and we just wanted to remind everyone that it’s ok to feel this way and that there is support available for anyone who may be struggling with their mental health over the festive season.”
Tips from Mind Cymru
Mind Cymru has shared the following tips for managing mental health over Christmas:
Looking After Yourself
- Be patient with yourself; it’s understandable to find Christmas difficult.
- Set boundaries and say no to things that aren’t helpful.
- Take time out to focus on non-Christmas-related activities.
- Remember: the season won’t last forever.
Talking to Others
- Let people know if you’re struggling.
- Access online communities, like Mind’s Side by Side service, for support.
- Communicate how others can help and what activities you’re comfortable with.
Managing Relationships
- Plan responses to potentially difficult questions ahead of time.
- Discuss budgets and schedules with family to reduce stress.
- Maintain distance if you must be around people you’d rather avoid.
Planning Ahead
- Prepare items that help you feel comfortable, especially in unfamiliar settings.
- Avoid triggering environments if possible.
- Check the opening hours of key services you may need during Christmas.
- Ensure you have enough medication to last the holiday period.
- Plan something enjoyable for after Christmas to look forward to.
Where to Find Support
If you’re struggling this Christmas, help is available:
- Mind Helplines: Visit www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helplines/ (closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day).
- Side by Side Online Community: Available 24/7 at https://sidebyside.mind.org.uk/.
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 (freephone). The Welsh language line is open daily from 7pm to 11pm.
- SHOUT Crisis Text Service: Text SHOUT to 85258, available 24/7.
- Coping with Money Worries: Visit the Mind website for advice.
Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect, and it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. Mind Cymru reminds everyone that support is always within reach.
Community
Mid and West Wales Fire Service launches recruitment drive
THE MID AND WEST WALES FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE has announced it is halfway through its recruitment window for Wholetime Firefighters. The service is actively seeking individuals from diverse backgrounds to join their ranks and contribute to the safety and well-being of communities across Mid and West Wales.
Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas KFSM emphasised the evolving nature of the firefighter’s role, stating, “The role of a Wholetime Firefighter goes far beyond tackling fires, road traffic collisions and water rescues. Modern-day firefighters play a crucial part in educating the public and working to prevent risks to life and the environment.”
The MAWWFRS is keen to attract applicants with a wide range of skills and experiences, recognising the diverse challenges faced by today’s fire service. “We encourage people from a variety of backgrounds to apply, emphasising the diverse skill set needed for this challenging yet rewarding career,” added Thomas.
This recruitment initiative is seen as a vital step in ensuring the service has the necessary personnel to respond effectively to emergencies and maintain safety standards across the region. The MAWWFRS covers a vast area, encompassing nearly two-thirds of Wales, making it the third largest Fire and Rescue Service in the United Kingdom.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to visit the MAWWFRS website for detailed information on fitness requirements, the application process, and how to apply. The online registration window closes at 12pm on Monday, 27th January 2025.
As the service continues its mission to create safer communities, this recruitment drive offers an opportunity for individuals to become part of a team that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Citations:
[1] http://eastwoodacademy.co.uk/docs/How%20to%20write%20a%20newspaper%20article.pdf
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid_and_West_Wales_Fire_and_Rescue_Service
[3] https://midwestwalesfire.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s5689/HR%20People%20and%20Well-Being%20Update%20Report.pdf
[4] https://nickdale.me/2023/05/31/how-to-write-a-newspaper-article/
[5] https://www.gov.wales/find-your-local-fire-and-rescue-service
[6] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/join-us/current-vacancies/
[7] https://www.superprof.co.uk/resources/questions/english/broadsheet-articles.html
[8] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk
[9] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/join-us/
[10] https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/body/mid_and_west_wales_fire_and_rescue_service
Community
Paul Lucas receives British Empire Medal for services to education and charity
ONE of the driving forces behind the creation of Haverfordwest High VC School has been honoured with the British Empire Medal.
Mr Paul Lucas received his insignia from His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards, at a special ceremony at County Hall, Haverfordwest, on Monday, January 20th.
Mr Lucas was named in the New Year Honours for services to education and charity in Pembrokeshire.
Mr Lucas was Chairman of Governors at the newly created Haverfordwest High VC School at the time of its official opening by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal in 2022.
Mr Lucas oversaw the amalgamation of the former Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools into Haverfordwest High and the building of the fantastic new school on the former Sir Thomas Picton site.
Hosting the event, the Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council Cllr Steve Alderman noted that many, many thousands of students for decades to come will enjoy first class educational facilities at the new school, thanks to the dedication of Mr Lucas.
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards, said: “On behalf of His Majesty The King, it was an honour and an enormous privilege to present Mr Paul Lucas with the British Empire Medal.
“Mr Lucas has provided incredible service to Pembrokeshire and Haverfordwest in particular and has been a driving force for educational improvement. His work will have a lasting legacy for future generations.”
Assisting the Lord-Lieutenant for the ceremony was Lord-Lieutenant Cadet Sergeant Mariana Lemon.
Also in attendance for the special occasion were the Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Jon Harvey; the High Sheriff of Dyfed, Helen Jones, and Deputy Lieutenant of Dyfed, Col Martin Green, along with Mr Lucas’ family and invited guests.
Community
County Show calling all Pembrokeshire parents and teachers
SCHOOLCHILDREN from across the county are invited to the next Food Story event, Nutritious, Delicious & Local, which will take place at the Pembrokeshire County Showground on Wednesday, March 5, and Thursday, March 6, 2025.
This exciting event, suitable for pupils from Year 2 to Year 11, will offer a hands-on learning experience focusing on health and well-being, as well as the role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in local food production. Topics will include how weather and climate impact farming, the growth of crops, and the daily challenges faced by farmers.
Children will also have the chance to cook and sample local produce, making it a truly interactive and educational experience.
All primary and secondary schools across Pembrokeshire will receive an invitation and booking form to attend. If teachers have not received the email and would like to participate, they are encouraged to contact the Pembrokeshire Showground Office at [email protected] as soon as possible.
Don’t miss this opportunity to inspire the next generation about the importance of nutritious, local food!
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