Look after your mates this Christmas

A tumultuous year and uncertainties around the closure of domestic borders could make Christmas a difficult period for many in the South West.

Checking in with family and friends is always important, but one Bunbury psychologist says connection at this time of year is as important as ever.

South West Wellbeing Centre psychologist Jay Anderson said while face-to-face conversations were ideal, it was important to connect with family and friends in anyway possible.

“Ultimately for me it comes back to connection and relationships,” she said.

“As humans we are all connected and it is important to interact with people you care about.

“Often we are interacting with people at work or in the community but family and friends are the key ones.”

Mrs Anderson said being able to see the other person was the best way to check in on them, even if it was on a screen.

“I would say face-to-face is best because you can see them but sometimes these days people are in contact by phone or by Skype and so for me the most important thing is just to show people you care about them by listening to them,” she said.

“There are really good platforms like Zoom and Skype where you can see them as well as talk to them and that can help.

“When people care but they can’t spend time with people, that could impact on them feeling angry or upset by their situation.

“Sometimes people might be upset or worried and not doing things they like to do, and that’s a key sign.”