22 December 2025
Islanders who may be struggling with their mental health over the festive period are being
reminded of the support they can access online and in-person.
The Listening Lounge, which supports Islanders aged 18 and over with common mental health
difficulties and wellbeing problems (such as low-level anxiety and depression) is open in the
run-up to Christmas and between Christmas and New Year.
During the festive period, the Listening Lounge opening hours will remain the same (10am-8pm
Monday to Saturday) except on Christmas Eve when the service will be open 10am to 6pm. It
will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Islanders can also access support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, via the
digital mental health support service TogetherAll or telephone support from the Samaritans.
For people who are in mental health crisis and need immediate support – including on public
holidays – the Adult Mental Health 24-hour Crisis Team can be contacted on 445290.
The adult Community Mental Health team will also be available for people who need additional
support on Boxing Day between 9am and 5pm on Boxing Day.
Andy Weir, Director of Mental Health Services, Social Care and Community Services said:
“While Christmas and New Year can be a time of celebration and excitement for many, it can
also feel very lonely and difficult for others. We want Islanders to know that they don’t have to
face those feelings alone – support is available and reaching out can make a real difference. If
you are struggling this period, please seek support.”
Top tips to support your mental health this Christmas:
- Acknowledge your feelings: It's okay to feel lonely or sad. Accepting your emotions can
help you process them without judgment.
- Connection: Contact a friend, family member, or support line, such as the Listening
Lounge on 01534 866793 or the Samaritans 116 123. Even a short conversation can
make a difference. Consider helping others in any small way you can, or volunteering in
person or online. This can help foster a sense of purpose.
- Sometimes connection can come from unexpected places. A friendly conversation with
a neighbour or a person on the bus can brighten your day, so staying open to connection
can help.
- If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, including thoughts of suicide, please
contact the Mental Health Crisis Team.
- Limit social media: Comparing your experience to others online can intensify feelings of
loneliness. Set boundaries.
- Practice self-care: Prioritise activities that nurture your wellbeing, such as mindfulness,
exercise or something else you enjoy.
- Set small goals: Achieving even minor tasks can build a sense of achievement and
structure your day.
- Seek support: If feelings of loneliness become overwhelming, consider reaching out to
professionals.
- Plan: Use this time to brainstorm things to look forward to in the coming weeks or
months, however small, like finishing a book, or arranging a meetup.
- Connect with nature: A walk outdoors or time in a park can uplift your mood and provide
a sense of calm as well.
- Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that feeling lonely doesn’t define your
future. Reflect on how you’ve navigated challenges in the past. If a loved one was feeling
lonely, you’d likely offer comfort and support. Offer yourself the same care and
understanding.
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