For many students, the Christmas season is spent enjoying the company of family and friends. Young people will travel across the globe to be welcomed back into their childhood homes.
For others, this is simply not possible. Many young people — whether it be due to estrangement, financial insecurity, working hours or illness — will be spending Christmas at their student accommodation while their peers are gone.
You are not alone. Studies report that over 1 in 5 people experience loneliness during the month of December, with even higher levels among students and young people, as well as those who are unemployed or single parents.
Although Christmas is not always easy, there may be plenty of alternative opportunities and support networks right at your doorstep. We recommend planning at least one new or exciting activity per day to keep yourself afloat. Here are our top suggestions to support your wellbeing and mental health throughout December.
1. University Christmas Events
Universities and student unions across the UK are holding events throughout December to keep their students connected.
These events will specifically allow you to meet other students who may be facing similar anxieties and struggles at this time of year, so you can continue to connect with them throughout the rest of the month and into the new year. Who knows, you might even meet a lifelong friend!
2. Video Calls
Consistently underrated, video calls make you feel as though you really are right at home. Open your Christmas presents together, or pop your laptop on the kitchen counter while making Christmas dinner and sweet treats with your friends/family!
If you have any Christmas traditions, video calls are a wonderful way to carry out comforting, familiar experiences surrounded by the people you love.
3. Volunteer
If you find yourself with too much free time, why not apply to volunteer during the Christmas period? Many food banks and other charities need support more than ever during this time of year, while some are asking for local volunteers to donate gifts to children suffering hardships or living in poverty.
Opportunities like these may support you in finding purpose and community when you most need it.
4. Visit a friend's family
Have a friend who lives nearby? Chances are, their family would be delighted to meet and spend time with you over the Christmas period.
You may want to reach out to any contacts made at your university's Christmas events. If they are also spending December on their own, it could be beneficial to enjoy Christmas Day with your newfound mates.
5. Organize gifts and cards
A great way to stay preoccupied, organizing gifts and cards allows you to care for your family and friends from afar. If money is tight, consider making gifts this year. A hot cocoa or 'cookie mix recipe' mason jar is always a popular option, and you can look up various combinations online.
If you want to take this further, look up some gift-wrapping tutorials on YouTube. You will find yourself mesmerized and eager to replicate, and a surprisingly large amount of time can be spent exploring this therapeutic art.
6. Catch up!
Were there activities you enjoyed before university began? Consider this an opportunity to spend time doing what you love again. If you've been neglecting your music practice, still haven't watched that new Netflix show, or have always wanted to start learning a new language but never quite got around to it, now is your chance!
This is where planning comes into play. Every time you think of something you would like to do, write it down straight away. If you like baking, find a recipe, and stick it in the diary for Thursday. If there's a book you want to finish: Sunday night. Schedule one fun activity per day.
This December, remind yourself that you are not alone. There are people who care about you dearly, no matter how far away they may be. And no matter how difficult this month may feel, please remember there are always support networks and exciting experiences waiting for you, should you wish to seek them out.
Sometimes, you may need additional support.
Your wellbeing is important, and we would like to highlight the resources available to you.
If you require emergency assistance and support during the winter (whether it be it mental, financial or practical) please contact your university's support service as soon as possible.
Your university website will likely also have a page dedicated entirely to mental health and wellbeing support. This page will include information on how to access further support, as well as self-help guides and emergency contact details.
You may also want to reach out to:
Samaritans, UK: 116 123.
Free, confidential and available to listen 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Breathing Space, Scotland: 0800 838587.
A free and confidential phoneline for anyone over the age of 16 experiencing depressive symptoms or anxiety.
