Look after yourself and your mates this Christmas

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s easy to get caught up in the festivities. But let’s not forget - Christmas looks different for everyone. While some of us are looking forward to family time and celebrations, for others, the holiday season can bring a lot of stress, loneliness and pressure. The financial strain, the social comparisons, and the isolation some people feel - especially if they don’t have family nearby -? can really take a toll on mental health.

That’s why it’s important to look after yourself and take a step back when things get busy. Check in on your mates, especially those who might be isolated. If you know someone who’ll be spending Christmas alone, why not invite them over for lunch? A simple gesture like that can make all the difference and remind someone they’re not forgotten.

And if you or someone you know is doing it tough, don’t forget there’s help out there. TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter) offers free, confidential mental health support for tradies, truckies, farmers and anyone in the blue-collar world. It’s an easy, no-nonsense way to get professional help via text or call, whenever you need it. To reach out, call or text on 0488 846 988 Mon-Fri 8 am-10 pm AEST.?

This Christmas, let’s look after ourselves and each other. If you need a compassionate ear, don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s okay not to be okay.