Christmas is supposed to be full of joy and happiness as we gather together with family and friends, but it can often be a difficult time of the year for those with a mental illness.
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Dr Irwin Pakula, chief medical superintendent at South Coast Private Hospital said, “This can be due to the effects of loneliness and isolation, and the excess use of alcohol. Those who suffer with anxiety find mixing with others difficult and those without a lot of finances feel left out as they cannot afford what others can.”
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There are many reasons why the festive season can present challenges and these may include:
- The movies and advertisements we see at Christmas show happy families enjoying themselves. The movie representations are not realistic for many people, as real families have problems and conflicts.
- Some individuals who are financially poor are unable to provide their loved ones with the presents, decorations, food and toys that they feel are necessary. Learning how to save and set a budget is important.
- Older people remember the good Christmases they had many years ago, but family members have died and they have few or no relatives to spend time with at Christmas. There is a need here for individuals and families to reach out to each other.
- When some families get together with the overuse of alcohol, arguments occur which leads to further alienation. Avoiding excessive alcohol or other drugs will help.
- People with a mental illness find it hard to mix with others and are left lonely and isolated.
Dr Pakula said, “There are organisations such as The Salvation Army and St Vincent De Paul that provide support both financially and with food for people at this time of year.
“It is also essential to have an emergency plan worked out (if there is a requirement) for when things go very badly. This includes contacting Lifeline or the local hospital, the mental health team, a friend, relative or a neighbour for help.”
South Coast Private Hospital is a low acute mental health facility that provides individuals with quality inpatient and day patient mental healthcare and support.
The hospital offers treatments for general adult psychiatry, PTSD, veteran services, anxiety management, depression management, substance withdrawal and addiction recovery programs.
CEO Kim Capp said, “Some may remember the hospital was previously the Rydges Hotel in Burelli Street, Wollongong. It is quite unlike many hospitals with 70 well-appointed rooms, and a dining room which serves A grade meals. This premier facility is an asset to Wollongong.”
South Coast Private Hospital is still open and accepting private mental health inpatient admissions over the Christmas period (with the exception of public holidays and weekends).
For enquiries phone 1800 250 000 or go to southcoastprivate.com.au. Find them on Facebook and Instagram for tips on how to get through this difficult period.