In a recent BBC article, Charlotte Walker, creator of the Purple Persuasion blog, discusses how to care for one's mental health during the holiday season. Walker has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and she herself recently faced a mental health crisis in the weeks leading up to December 25th. While she helps make readers aware of the fact that this festive time of year often brings with it extra stresses and worries for those with mental illnesses as many feel that "depression and Christmas just don't go", she also encourages those of us with mental health concerns to let go of the desire for that picture perfect Christmas. Walker also goes on to share with readers her plans for a low-key Christmas that still embraces the joyful time of year but is more fitting for someone recovering from a psychiatric crisis.
"And finally, I'm trying to count my blessings. It's something I usually hate being advised to do, but this year I think there might be something in it. True, it would be nice if I could feel a little more seasonal joy but I am fortunate - I have friends who will have to rely on food banks if they're going to have any dinner at all, and I know of people who have no choice but to spend Christmas day alone. So I may not be as well as I would like but without excellent crisis care, I could have been spending the festive fortnight in hospital."
http://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-ouch-30433361
"And finally, I'm trying to count my blessings. It's something I usually hate being advised to do, but this year I think there might be something in it. True, it would be nice if I could feel a little more seasonal joy but I am fortunate - I have friends who will have to rely on food banks if they're going to have any dinner at all, and I know of people who have no choice but to spend Christmas day alone. So I may not be as well as I would like but without excellent crisis care, I could have been spending the festive fortnight in hospital."
http://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-ouch-30433361
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