The latest research from Mind suggests that young adults are more likely to practice ‘healthy coping mechanisms’ to manage wellbeing during the holidays

The research, which included more than 2,000 respondents aged 18 and over, saw that those in the 18-24 age group are more likely to reach out to friends and family, use exercise and practice meditation than the wider population.

They are also more likely to find activities such as meditation, exercise and arts and crafts helpful for relaxation during the festive period (44% compared to an average of 40%).

Additionally, 18-24 year olds are less likely to increase their alcohol consumption as a way of coping than the average respondent (11% compared to an average of 19%).

Karen Bolton, Head of Community Events and Fundraising at Mind said: “We commission research each year to understand who most enjoys taking part in fundraising activities.

“This year, we found that the 18-24 age group were almost twice as likely to take part, however, we also found some interesting stats that seem to blast the snowflake myth firmly out the water!

“This younger generation are all too often criticised for being ‘less resilient’ but our research suggests that this age group take proactive and positive steps to manage their mental health.”

Mind’s Christmas Crafternoon

The research comes as the 2018 Christmas Crafternoon fundraising event launched, where members of the public are encouraged to get crafty and create Christmas gifts as an alternative to shop-bought presents.

Crafternoon participants from previous years also reported that crafting creates a sense of calm and an opportunity for mindfulness among the Christmas chaos, as well as a chance to get together with friends, family, colleagues and the wider community. Mind’s Crafternoon is currently the largest craft-based fundraiser in the UK.

Part of Mind’s festive fundraising drive, Crafternoon involves getting together with friends, family or colleagues and holding an afternoon of creative fun. Whether it is card making, knitting, crocheting or bauble making, previous research suggests crafting of all kinds can be good for our mental health.

The 18-24 age group aren’t only focused on their personal benefit from these activities either. The survey found that 37% of 18-24 year olds said they enjoy taking part in fundraising activities, compared to an average of 20% across all age groups.

Interestingly, 65% of the 18-24 age group said they loved receiving Christmas cards (compared to an average of 57% across all age groups), and 55% of them would rather receive a homemade card than shop-bought.

Whether it’s organising a Crafternoon at work, at home, or in a local cafe, inviting people to enjoy a fun, craft-themed event while raising funds for a good cause can boost both mood and wellbeing. These kinds of activities can be particularly enjoyable and therapeutic as they help you to relax, unwind and focus on something outside of your daily stressors.

“Every penny raised through Crafternoon makes a big difference - just £50 could answer six calls to the Mind Infoline which provides much-needed support to people across the country,” said Karen.

To learn more about Crafternoon and how you can host your own event, visit mind.org.uk/crafternoon.

Feeling the pressure? Read 5 simple ways to reduce stress right now.

Discover more about the benefits of creativity for mental wellness on Counselling Directory.