Young people needing NHS mental health support now face up to a five-year waiting list, sparking a Christmas campaign to raise awareness of this pressing issue
In 2024, Oxfordshire Mind supported over 1,000 young adults across Oxfordshire and Berkshire West. Now, the organisation is focusing on raising awareness of the growing mental health crisis during the festive season. Mental health challenges often worsen at Christmas and throughout the winter months, making this effort especially timely and important.
According to YouGov research, 26% of people report that Christmas has a negative impact on their mental health, highlighting the importance of the charity’s campaign. A key factor behind this year's focus on young people's mental health was feedback from youth forums. Oxfordshire Mind directly engaged with over 40 young people aged 11 to 18 and these forums highlighted a noticeable gap between the mental health needs of young people and the understanding of the adults in their lives.
Young people expressed feeling overlooked, with many adults dismissing their mental health struggles as "just a phase." They highlighted a generational divide in understanding, especially when it comes to issues like social media pressures, cyberbullying, and academic expectations.
With waiting times for mental health services reaching up to five years in some cases, many children and young people are left without the urgent support they require. Oxfordshire Mind’s new short film highlights the urgency for understanding and action to ensure no young person has to wait years to be heard and helped.
Through their winter appeal, Oxfordshire Mind is working to raise awareness and funds to enhance their services for children and young people’s mental health. These services, such as supported self-help in GP surgeries, peer support groups, and mental health workshops in schools, offer vital support to young people during some of their most difficult times.
How to support young people’s mental health at Christmas
For many young people, Christmas isn’t always the magical time it's often made out to be. While it’s usually seen as a season of joy and togetherness, it can be a challenging period for those struggling with their mental health. If you or a young person you know is finding it tough this year, here are some tips to look after mental health over the festive season.
Practice open communication
The Christmas period can evoke a range of emotions in young people, from excitement and happiness to stress and sadness. It's important to encourage open communication by creating a safe environment where a young person feels comfortable sharing their feelings. Listen without judgement, allowing them to express their experiences and concerns. By understanding your child's emotions, you can address any anxieties they may have around Christmas.
Manage expectations
If you know a young person is already struggling with their mental health, it can be helpful to remind them that Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect. Sometimes, Christmas can come with a lot of pressure to be happy, participate, or “perform”. If they’re feeling overwhelmed by social gatherings, work together to adjust plans. Let them know it’s OK to skip certain events, leave early, or take time out if they need a break. Encourage them to only commit to what feels comfortable.
Indulge in moderation
Christmas is typically a time of overindulgence, but it's important to remember that how we treat our bodies can influence how we feel, both physically and emotionally. Too much alcohol can have a noticeable effect on our mental health, especially if someone is already struggling with their emotions. While Christmas is a time for a little indulgence, a helpful tip is to maintain balance throughout the season — everything in moderation.
Acknowledge grief or loss
The Christmas period can be particularly hard for young people who have experienced loss, whether of a loved one or the end of a relationship. It’s important to give someone space to process their emotions. You don’t have to have all the answers, but just being present, without trying to fix anything, can provide a lot of comfort.
Manage social anxiety and pressure
For those who struggle with social anxiety or pressure during family gatherings, provide support by discussing strategies for managing those situations. This might include practising conversation skills, deep breathing techniques, or how to respectfully excuse themselves if they feel overwhelmed.
Seek support
The pressure to be happy and social during the Christmas season can feel overwhelming, but it's important to remember that it’s OK not to be OK. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out for support is a powerful step. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, family member, or a professional, expressing how you’re feeling can make a huge difference. You don’t have to go through it alone — there are people who care and want to help, even if it’s just by listening.
For more information on child-related issues or to reach out to a counsellor or therapist that can help support young people with their mental health, visit Counselling Directory.
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