This article has been written for anyone who struggles during the festive period or wants to gain insight into what it may look like for someone not as enthusiastic as they are.
The festive season isn’t always a happy time for everyone. However, it doesn’t have to be a time we are forced to endure. It can be whatever we want it to be!
Many people with disabilities struggle during this time of the year. This is due to a range of things.
You must fill this time with safe, supportive and enjoyable memories! This means the festive period can be whatever you want it to be. Goodbye social norms – hello to doing the holidays my way.
oh yeah
Make this a time that you feel most comfortable. If a crowded room around a festive meal is not what makes you comfortable. It’s ok to change things up.
Please remember saying YES when you want to say NO can leave you resentful and overwhelmed. Therefore, if asked to a festive meal and unsure how to decline, here are some possible responses:
▷Thanks for the invite. However, I am celebrating the day my way.
▷ I Appreciate the invite - I already have plans.
▷Lovely to be invited. However, I don’t do Christmas.
Here is how to fill the festive period with things full of meaning & value
If connecting with family isn’t associated with this time of year. Try something new. It could be learning to cook or bake something new. There are many YouTube tutorials, and my favourite is watching Nadiya on Netflix or grabbing a recipe from her website. Trying out a new hobby or simply choosing to have a movie marathon
hello my friend
There are many ways to fill this time with things full of meaning and value.
Ask your support team
to create some options
and plan together
if you need support.
Sometimes the most simple activities can be meaningful. Listening to music and sitting outside getting fresh air. Exploring a nature strip, watching the waves at the beach, or just appreciating the little things like a breeze on your skin, watching the leaves move in the wind, enjoying your favourite food/drink, or having downtime.
If you want to connect with people, you care about but can’t do the social gathering:
⊹ Grab a pack of Christmas cards and add a personal note to let them know you’re thinking of them and care.
⊹Connect via a phone call, text, or video call.
⊹Forward a GIFY to their page, direct messages (FB, WhatsApp, or IG), or email.
These are all ways of connecting without feeling uncomfortable.
Create or own way of making this time of the year what you want it to be, and remember there is no right or wrong way. So please listen to your own needs and wants!
We all have different paths; what works for one person may not be great for the next. So it’s ok to change things up and create a festive season that means something just to you.
Those who know and care about you will accept and appreciate your choices. If not, that is ok. It is your life, and you can live it your way.
May you be well and safe this festive season.
