A Christmas guide and resources/information of organisation services open at Christmas 2024
Christmas can be a challenging time for many, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. While Christmas is often associated with joy and togetherness, it can also bring about unique stressors and mental health challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals. Here are some key points to consider and some useful resources and signposting below:
Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Individuals at Christmas
- Family Acceptance: Not all LGBTQ+ people have supportive families. Holiday gatherings can sometimes lead to feelings of rejection or strained relationships, especially if family members are not accepting of their identities.
- Misgendering and Deadnaming: Transgender and non-binary individuals may face misgendering or deadnaming from family members, which can be deeply hurtful and invalidating.
- Isolation and Loneliness: Some LGBTQ+ individuals may not have close relationships with their families or may have distanced themselves due to a lack of acceptance. This can lead to feelings of isolation during a time when social connections are emphasised.
- Pressure to Conform: There can be pressure to conform to societal expectations, such as presenting as cisgender and heterosexual, to avoid judgement or criticism during family gatherings.
Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health
- Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate your needs and boundaries with family members before gatherings. Let them know what topics are off-limits and what language is appropriate.
- Prioritise Self-Care: Engage in activities that help you manage stress, such as journaling, meditating, exercising, or spending time with supportive friends.
- Create a Support Network: Surround yourself with people who affirm and celebrate you. This could be your chosen family or friends who understand and support your identity.
- Plan an Exit Strategy: If a situation becomes too overwhelming, have a plan in place to leave early or take a break. This could involve scheduling a friend to call you with an "emergency" or booking flexible travel arrangements.
- Celebrate Queer Joy: Embrace and celebrate your identity by participating in inclusive events or creating your own traditions that reflect your true self.
Remember, it's important to prioritise your well-being during the holidays. If you find yourself struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for professional support or connect with LGBTQ+ organisations that offer resources and community.
Some useful resources and signposting below:
MindOut’s online service will be available on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday over Christmas and New Year from 3pm-5pm.
24/7 Crisis Support
Sussex Mental Health Line: Call 111 and select option 2
Samaritans: Available 24/7. Call on (local rate) 116 123 or call 01273 772277 or text 07725909090
Shout: Text the word SUSSEX to 85258
Mental Health Rapid Response Service- Brighton and Hove Only: 0300 304 0078
East Sussex County Council have a long list of organisations that support people with their mental health.
Age UK advise line open from 8am to 7pm on Christmas Day. Call fee on 0800 678 1602
The Ability Life Opportunity Support Line will be open from 9.30am until 11pm on Christmas Day. Call on (local rate) 0121 630 2015
The NHS Mental Health Crisis Helpline will be open 24/7 on Christmas Day. Call free on 111 (option 2)
Beat’s Eating Disorder Helpline will be open from 4pm until 8pm on Christmas Day. Call 0808 801 0677 (England). 0808 801 0433 (Wales).
LGBTQ Switchboard helpline service will be available on Christmas Day from 7pm to 9.30pm. Call on (local rate) 01273 204050
Amaze offers information, advice and support to parent carers and young people with additional needs up to 25 in Brighton & Hove and East Sussex. Getting support over Christmas - Amaze Sussex
CGL will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. They will also be closing at 3pm on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve.
Mind offer information about organisations across the country that are open.
Useful contacts - Christmas and mental health - Mind
Ageing Well have produced an extensive directory of info of services over Christmas
TransSober have some drop-in groups over the Christmas Period
Events from December 19 – January 23, 2025 – TransSober
Visit Brighton have info here about things to do in Brighton over the Festive period.
Festive Fun | Christmas in Brighton
There is information here about the Lighthouse service offered by Southdown
Staying well is open at the usual time over the Festive period
Staying Well Brighton & Hove - Southdown
The University of Brighton has provided info places remaining open to support students with their mental health.
Your support network during Christmas closure 23 Dec – 3 Jan | Student News and Events
Qwell is a free online tool available 24/7 to support people with their mental health
Qwell: Personalised Digital Mental Wellbeing Service - UOK
A useful guide to getting through Christmas alone.
How to beat loneliness this Christmas | LGBT HERO - the national health and wellbeing charity
The Big issue provides info here about getting a free Christmas dinner.
Where to get a free Christmas dinner in your community this year - Big Issue
The Mental Health Foundation provides info for getting through the holiday period.
Looking after your mental health during the holidays | Mental Health Foundation