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One aspect of Christmas which causes problems is that of unrealistic expectations. We are bombarded with images in the media of what the perfect Christmas looks like when, in reality, there is no such thing.
Expectations vs Reality
We all want the ideal Christmas, and the focus is on perfect gifts, endless fun, great social activities, wonderful family gatherings, sparkling lights, beautiful Christmas carols, love and goodwill etc. However, this can cause us to reflect on our own failings and the inadequacies of life.
We may compare our life with other people who seem to be having a much better time. We may also become anxious at Christmas because of the pressure to spend excessively, to visit family, friends and acquaintances who rub us up the wrong way, as well as feelings of loneliness, regret and despair.
Many of us expect something magical to happen at Christmas, and when nothing special happens, we feel flat and disappointed. The fact is Christmas is just a day like any other, and building it up usually only ends in disappointment.
Having unrealistic or unfulfilled expectations is a sure way to ruin your Christmas. Whatever your expectations, look at them as objectively as possible. Ask yourself: “Am I being realistic?” Instead of holding on to unrealistic expectations of the perfect festive season, set new expectations that are based in reality.
Mental Health Resources
Suicide is Never the Answer
Understand the reasons behind suicidal feelings in young people and recognise the signs to help prevent this tragedy.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Published: 1999
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 44
Teenage Depression — A Way Out
Tackles the issue of depression including causes and signs that parents and teachers can look out for.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Published: 1999
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 87
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Covers suicide from a variety of perspectives, the reasons behind suicide, the groups most at risk and the warning signs.
- Category: General
- Published: 2022
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Mental Health Lesson Plans
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This lesson plan provides information and advice on dealing with exam stress.
- Age range: 12
- Category: Schools
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Generalised Anxiety Disorder
A lesson plan examining teenage anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder — a more extreme form of anxiety.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Published: 2022
- Pages: 14
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This lesson plan introduces depression and the way it affects us physically and mentally.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Published: 2022
- Pages: 14
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An introduction to loneliness and the way it affects our physical and mental health.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Published: 2022
- Pages: 15
Introduction to Mental Health
This lesson plan introduces the subject of mental health and mental illness.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Published: 2022
- Pages: 15
Suicide Prevention
A lesson plan designed to promote suicide awareness and prevention.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Published: 2022
- Pages: 21
Free Mental Health Resources
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How can someone tell if they are suffering with depression? This free resource seeks to find out.
- Category: Schools
- Pages: 8
Free Download
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What is loneliness and what causes people to feel lonely? This free resource explores these questions.
- Category: Schools
- Pages: 6
Free Download