Christmas is famously the season to be jolly, but it is also a time which is stressful for many and can be particularly hard on those coping with other serious problems in their lives.

Talking to friends and family is one of the best things when you’re feeling down. But if everyone around you is too busy to talk, or too fraught about Christmas to pay attention to what you’re trying to say, you can end up feeling more isolated than ever.

That is why Live It Well is reminding people about Mental Health Matters, a free helpline offering confidential emotional support and guidance for people in Kent and Medway. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, on 0800 107 0160 and staff are trained in counselling skills, so can offer support over the phone. They also have details of local and national services if people want more support.

The Samaritans also provide confidential emotional support, for anyone feeling down, depressed or anxious. Volunteers can be contacted 24 hours a day by phone on 08457 90 90 90, or you can email [email protected] or you can arrange for a face to face visit through their website, click here to find out about the details of your local branch.

We here at Live It Well also has helpful advice as well also has information about the five ways to wellbeing, things everyone can do to help them cope with difficult times and get more out of life at Christmas and all year round, click here to see this information. Karen Macarthur, public health lead on mental health for NHS Kent and Medway, said: “The five ways to wellbeing have been identified by national research as effective at helping people feel better and protecting them against anxiety and depression. “They can’t change people’s circumstances, but they can make it easier to cope and to get more out of life in general. Many of them fit well with New Year’s resolutions – why not resolve to give a try? They cost nothing and can make a big difference to the way you feel.’