Helping everyone have a happy holiday

Christmas and New Years can be a particularly difficult time for many people, amplifying feelings of isolation and disconnection which can add to mental health struggles.

Social and economic issues impacting housing affordability, food security and connection to family and friends can have a drastic impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing.

A Red Cross study in November 2022 showed that nearly one in three Australians experienced loneliness around the festive season.

zero2hero clinical psychologist Rashna Patel said loneliness and isolation peak around Christmas time, especially if people are impacted by family issues, disconnection, lack of support, or grief.

“There’s often a lot of loneliness for people who don’t have adequate support from family and friends,” Ms Patel said.

“Family conflict can be problematic around the festive season. If you’re from a family with lots of relationship challenges and tensions, that can also trigger issues,” she said.

“Grief and loss can take a big toll. If it’s the first time or one of the first times of not celebrating Christmas or a holiday with someone you love, that can be a burden for people.”

Social anxiety, societal pressures and overwhelm can also increase during this time.

“Around the holidays, people are celebrating, going to parties and having events, so if you’re not connected, those feelings of isolation can feel more amplified,” Ms Patel said.

Ms Patel said pressures to meet work deadlines before going on holiday and taking on more responsibility at work with limited staff over the break could also foster feelings of overwhelm.

Focus on connection and compassion

Kate O’Hara, Foodbank WA’s CEO, said the festive spirit can mask many struggles.

“At Foodbank WA, we see firsthand the harsh reality for many families during the Christmas season," she said.

“Financial hardship, feelings of isolation, and the weight of societal expectations can all come crashing down during this time, making mental health struggles worse and deepening feelings of loneliness.”

Ms O’Hara said while the holidays can highlight the challenges faced by many, it can also be a powerful time for connection, support, and hope.

“We see first-hand how even small acts of kindness make a world of difference.

“By focusing on connection, self-compassion, and giving back, we can transform the holidays into a time of genuine joy, shared humanity, and hope,” Ms O'Hara said.

“At Foodbank WA, we are not just about providing food, but about offering compassion, understanding, and a glimmer of hope. We strive to create a space where individuals can feel connected, supported, and empowered to navigate this challenging season.”

Foodbank WA partners with community organisations to host holiday gatherings and events, providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals and families to connect, share stories, and enjoy the festive spirit. 

“Our work doesn't stop there. We understand that food insecurity can be a symptom of deeper challenges, such as social isolation and mental health struggles,” Ms O’Hara said.

“That's why we partner with mental health professionals and other support services to offer additional help at our distribution sites. This holistic approach ensures that individuals receive not just the food they need, but also access to resources that can help them address the root causes of their struggles.”

Supporting those who are struggling

There are several ways people can offer support to someone who is struggling, including regular check-ins, making time to visit, dropping over food and care packages, and inviting them to your Christmas celebrations if you know they are alone.

“This Christmas, I urge everyone to extend a hand of kindness to those around them. Whether it's a simple conversation, a helping hand, or a donation to your local foodbank, every act of generosity has the power to brighten someone's day and remind them that they are not forgotten,” Ms O’Hara said.

There are several ways to donate food, funds or services to Foodbank WA and help fill the plates of families who are struggling this Christmas. Just $1 donatated is two meals created. 

zero2hero’s CEO, Ashlee Harrison, said donations to zero2hero will go towards supporting school programs, leadership camps and events that help to engage and empower young people and prevent suicide.

“We are grateful for all donations to zero2hero – big and small. A donation of $75 allows us to impact one young life through one of our programs and make a real difference to future generations,” Ms Harrison said.

The youth suicide prevention charity is fighting increasing numbers of suicide among Western Australia’s youth.

“When we see an increase in anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions, we often see that hand-in-hand with an increase in suicidal ideation, self-harm and often suicide,” Ms Patel said.

In 2023, zero2hero impacted more than 30,000 young people, trained 600 people in a lifesaving suicide prevention accreditation, provided 18,500 students with mental health education and reached more than 244 WA schools.

Donations are tax deductible and can be made by visiting: www.zero2hero.com.au/make-a-donation.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a support line, such as Lifeline on 13 11 14.