12 tips for Surviving Christmas

A seasonal message from Fay at The Survivors Trust

‘Tis the season to be jolly, or so the song goes. But how do you feel about this time of year? Excited, happy? Or maybe you’re dreading the whole thing?

This time of year and particularly Christmas can be such a challenging time for many survivors, especially when lots of other people seem to be having such a great time with their partners, families and friends.

Maybe when you were little or as you grew up Christmas wasn’t a happy time at all. For anyone, family arguments, not enough money and too much alcohol can all create unhappy and traumatic memories.

That’s why this year we’re reaching out to survivors with some hints, ideas and tips for surviving the next few weeks. There aren’t miracle ways of making things right, but we want you to know that there are people out there who understand, who have been through lonely and difficult times too.

Our message is that you can survive. Stay strong, create your own new traditions if you need to, and believe in yourself. Little changes add up and the smallest thing can sometimes make a world of difference.

Wishing you a safe and peaceful holidays and a bright New Year for 2020.

Fay
CEO of The Survivors Trust

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12 tips for Surviving Christmas

Tip 12: It's Okay to Say How You're Feeling

Tip 11: Set Aside Time for Yourself

Tip 10: Affirmation Jar

Tip 9: Look After your Health and Wellbeing

Tip 8: Find Inspiration

Tip 7: It's Okay to Say No

Tip 6: Make a Self-Care Box

Tip 5: Avoid Known Triggers

Tip 4: How to manage spending time with the abuser or people that make you feel bad about yourself

Tip 3: Seek Support

Tip 2: Plan Ahead

Tip 1: Create your own traditions