Blog: Caitlin's holiday self-care hacks

Written by Student Content Shaper Caitlin Whelan

After months of being told it’s too early for Christmas, the festive season is finally here.

While the season is more often than not associated with mince pies, gift-giving and ice skating, it’s important to make sure you're looking after yourself. Sometimes, Christmas can bring a lot of stress for people, especially students. So here are some of my tips on how to boost your mood! 

Tip 1: My small mood boosters

When I’m feeling stressed or upset one of my trustworthy mood boosters is watching an episode of Big Brother. I take a break from what I’m doing and have no problem getting carried away with the recent dramas and love triangles. Having something to distract me helps to refresh my mind – no matter how dramatic it may be!

Possibly a more constructive form of distraction is my journal. I have recently grown a love for my journal and the freedom I have to write anything I want. I think journaling is a great outlet for when I’m struggling as I can work out what’s bothering me and how to feel better. Since journalling more often, I’ve found that the ducks in the lake near me get frequent mentions. Who knew ducks could be so helpful? Sadly, Big Brother ends in a few weeks, but I have other outlets for my feelings that are going to be especially helpful in the Christmas period.  

Tip 2: The outside world

While going outside can be even more of a task around Christmas because of how cold it is, it’s even more important to get some fresh air in times of stress. Going outside after I’ve been upset or even while I’m still upset gives me a fresh of breath air – mainly because of how cold it is! But I wrap up and usually go to see the ducks, who don’t seem to be affected by the cold. Taking the time to bundle up and step outside, even in the chilly Christmas weather, can do wonders for clearing my mind during stressful times. 

Along with this, digital detoxes can be incredibly helpful. It might seem like a cliché, but taking a break from social media always boosts my mood. Even though it takes some effort, putting my phone down and stepping away from online negativity helps me gain a better perspective on how I'm feeling. So, toss your phone under your pillow or stash it in your bread bin for an hour or so, and distance yourself from the digital world. I find it healing to immerse myself in real-life experiences without any distractions. Why not enjoy a silly TV show, engage in some arts and crafts, or simply have a chat with someone?

Tip 3: Talking to somebody

One of the best things you can do is simply talk to someone. It really helps to share your feelings, work through them and also get some guidance on how to improve your mood. I usually call a friend or family member for a chat—it's comforting and part of my support system.

Sometimes more help is needed, and UoB has many sources of support.

UBHeard is a 24/7 support service that operates through a phone line and portal to help give guidance on specific emotional challenges. Along with this service open 365 days of the year, each College has dedicated Wellbeing Officers with professional experience and can specifically help with extenuating circumstances if they are necessary. Both of these resources can guide students to counselling and professional help if it's needed. Although this sounds more serious than sticking on an episode of Big Brother, most of us benefit from extra support and there's no issue too small. Speaking out is brave, and the University are here to help.

There are many things that can help your mental health during the Christmas period so it’s important to find what works for you and know when you need the extra support. Whatever you're feeling, there are also a handful of tips and advice from my fellow Student Content Shapers on keeping your spirits up and making sure you get the most out of your Christmas at UoB. Just visit the 'Looking after yourself during Christmas' intranet page. Take care of yourself during this jolly season!