While Christmas is often considered a time for celebration and family fun, it can also be a struggle for some people.

If you’re struggling with your mental health this Christmas, the NHS has shared important contacts you can use for support.

“No matter how big or small your worries feel, reaching out for help can be a powerful step to feeling better.

“Try speaking to a friend or family member or accessing some of the wellbeing and mental health support available locally”, says Justine Hill, Deputy Associate Director of Primary Care and Community Health Services.

She added: “It is ok to say no to things that feel overwhelming and prioritise your wellbeing during this time. Take small steps, be kind to yourself and remember, you’re not alone.

“Our teams are here throughout Christmas and New Year offering a range of support and advice to support your mental wellbeing”.

Advice and help you can get at Christmas to help with your mental health

The NHS explained that Mind has shared some useful guidance to help anyone who might be struggling with their mental health during the Christmas period.

Lots of resources are available to use on your local children’s mental health and Talking Therapies websites – these help support different mental health symptoms.

“For some children and parents, school holidays can be a stressful time and changes to usual routines can be unsettling”, says Dr Katie Powell, Associate Medical Director for Children, Young People and Families.

She added: “Families and young people can find Christmas and New Year difficult for lots of reasons and it can highlight feelings of loneliness and isolation, or lead to people becoming anxious or depressed. It is important to look after our emotional, mental health and wellbeing.

“I encourage young people and families to take a look at the range of support available on the CAMHS website and through digital wellbeing platforms. There is support available every day of the year, 24 hours a day”.

Young people aged 11 – 25 can access Kooth which is a free, safe and anonymous online emotional wellbeing community that is accessible 24/7, 365 days of the year and provides access to chat sessions with accredited counsellors and qualified emotional wellbeing practitioners.

Additionally, Young Minds provides online information, advice and signposting through its website.

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If you just want to talk, listening services are also provided by charities such as Samaritans or Shout Crisis Helpline. They are free to access and available 365 days a year.

People of all ages, including children, who are in crisis or concerned family and loved ones can call 111, select the mental health option and speak to a trained mental health professional.

This service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including Christmas and Boxing Day.

If yours or someone’s life is at risk, you should phone 999 or visit your nearest emergency department.