After a very challenging year the ability to cope can be reduced.
Some people may face financial challenges and others may find being asked to participate in social functions causes anxiety.
A study commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation showed a quarter of New Zealanders had poor levels of mental and emotional wellbeing, including nearly a third of women.
Chief executive Shaun Robinson said the study provided an insight into the wellbeing of New Zealanders at the end of 2020, following nearly a year of living through the Covid-19 pandemic.
Those who did not have good lifestyle habits to support wellbeing were heavily represented in the at-risk quarter of the population, while under-35s and Pasifika also had lower than average wellbeing scores.
“Good mental and emotional wellbeing is proven to be an asset for personal, whanau, community and work-related success," Mr Robinson said.
"If we are to recover from Covid-19 we cannot afford to ignore the signs that a significant portion of our population need support."
The foundation has the following advice to help reduce stress during the festive season.
- Take a trip to see Christmas light displays across Dunedin.
- Enjoy time in the kitchen creating your favourite seasonal treats.
- Create your own Christmas cards and wrapping paper using recycled items including old cards, photos, magazine pages and fabric.
- Spend time in nature enjoying the many gardens, parks, beaches and forests that Dunedin has to offer.
- If you feel overwhelmed free call or text 1737 to connect to a trained counsellor or peer support worker.
— Visit mentalhealth.org.nz for further help and advice.
