Just because it's Christmas...
For many of us, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration. But when you’re living with mental health problems, it can be a very different story. We surveyed over 1,000 people and 80% of them told us their mental health symptoms get worse over the festive period, while nearly three-quarters said the season made them feel more lonely – even when they’re surrounded by family and friends.
Please donate to support people facing loneliness this Christmas.
Choose how you'd like to donate:
Your donation today could go towards providing access to mental health information for those who don’t know where to turn this Christmas.
Your donation today could go towards running our free online community Clic, here to support everyone with their mental health.
Your support today could go towards improving access to support groups across the UK, so that those facing loneliness this Christmas season can get the support they need.
A large part of feeling isolated at Christmas comes from money problems. Your support can go towards running our Mental Health and money advice service.
How much would you like to donate?
Your donation today could go towards providing access to mental health information for those who don’t know where to turn this Christmas.
Your donation today could go towards running our free online community Clic, here to support everyone with their mental health.
Your support today could go towards improving access to support groups across the UK, so that those facing loneliness this Christmas season can get the support they need.
A large part of feeling isolated at Christmas comes from money problems. Your support can go towards running our Mental Health and money advice service.
How much would you like to donate monthly?
"I always pretend I am fine. I drag myself shopping, wrap presents, and when I see people, I smile.
Read Tara's story
We surveyed over 1,000 people
They informed us that Christmas isn't always the happy event it is thought to be.
84% find Christmas or other festive periods to be stressful or triggering.
77% think their mental health problems worsen around the Christmas and the festive period.
73% experience loneliness and isolation even when surrounded by people during Christmas and festive periods.
75% feel pressure to enjoy or put on a pretence during Christmas or the festive period.
Support during the festive period
Mental Health UK provides a range of support to protect your mental health during Christmas and beyond
Loneliness support guide
Are you or someone you know facing loneliness this Christmas? We have created some tips and advice to help you manage your mental health and support others during the festive season.
Christmas and your mental health
There are many reasons why Christmas can be challenging, placing a strain on us mentally, emotionally, physically and financially. Visit our advice and information page to find what you can do to protect and support your mental health during this time.
Sign up and explore Clic
Our free online community, Clic, has helped thousands of people across the UK connect and support each other. Sign up and chat to others for mutual support and explore our range of self-help resources.
Support this Christmas
We want to make sure you have the support you need this Christmas 2023.
Below are support services operating during the festive season.
In an emergency please call 999 and for non-emergency medical help call 111.
Shout
Confidential, anonymous text support service which you can text if you are struggling to cope and need to talk to trained volunteers, day or night.
Text: 85258
Website
The Silverline - Age UK
Provides support, information, friendship and advice for anyone aged over 55 who may feel lonely or isolated 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Phone: 0800 470 8090
Website
Samaritans
You can get in touch about anything that’s troubling you. If you need someone to talk to, Samaritans listen - they don't judge or tell you what to do.
Phone: 116 123
Website
Refuge
Helpline for women who have experienced domestic abuse and violence. All female advisors can support you and help to find refuge accommodation.
Phone: 0808 200 0247
Website
Respect
Advice and support for men who have experienced domestic violence and abuse by a current or ex-partner or family member.
Phone: 0808 801 0327
Website
LGBT Foundation
Provides advice, support and information for people identifying as LGBTQIA+. Runs broad range of services enabling people to flourish.
0345 330 3030
Website
Cruse Bereavement Support
Offering emotional support to anyone affected by grief. Trained volunteers will give you space to talk about your feelings.
Phone: 0808 808 1677
Website
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide
Provides emotional and practical support for anyone bereaved or affected by suicide. Also runs local groups.
Phone: 0115 944 1117
Website
Your donation will make the difference
Just £10 could help pay for a call to our advice and information line, supporting someone living with mental illness who may be feeling in distress during this time.