To have to do an ‘Emma Thompson’ this Christmas?

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We all know the scene from ‘Love Actually’. AIBU to think I’m not the only one who is doing an Emma Thompson this Christmas? I.e. putting a brave face on whilst everything else crumbles around you?

You can share why you’re Emma Thompsoning your way through the festive period or just give a knowing nod whilst you scream inside.

Me? I’ve split up with my partner as I’ve realised it’s a toxic relationship after an incident last week. I’ve told no one and he’s back home after 4 night away. I am just smiling through it all so our daughter doesn’t have a shit Christmas and more difficult memories to work through in future therapy.

Separation, divorce, grief, bereavement, complicated family, homelessness or financial ruin?

Here’s to getting through the next few days and a brighter 2026!

One parent is terminally ill and this is likely our last Christmas together. Another close family member has made a serious suicide attempt this week- this is their third time doing so. All have been close calls. I am so scared they will be successful next time but therapy/ medication just seems to be prelonging and not solving their sadness. I can be quite good at distracting myself though and will likely have a good Christmas regardless, but it crumbles now and then. I feel I'm more snappy with the kids than I want to be :(

God bless you , sending love ❤️ though I know no sentiment is enough

Sending love and hugs to you all. I’ll be joining you in putting on a brave face after losing our baby at 20 weeks pregnant a few weeks ago. Fully just going through the motions this year for our 3 year old and absolutely dreading spending Christmas Day with our baby niece.

I got diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis today. Fatigued beyond anything ive ever experienced, crawling to the finish line. Been prescribed some high dose steroids to start in the morning so hoping I start to feel brighter on the day. Very emotional though.

Tears from me as well, hugs to all of you, along with hoping that your lives become a little easier in the future.

So many heartbreaking stories on here and so many awe inspiring women who somehow find the strength to put one foot in front of another literally and metaphorically. My heart goes out to anyone who is feeling low and out of kilter at this "merry and bright" time of year. The darkness, the emphasis on togetherness can make feelings of loss, isolation, fear or just feeling less than connected to how we are told we should be living and feeling much more intense. Virtual big mugs of hot tea to all (or whatever drink comforts you) and hugs too

Another cancer one. Have had biopsy, confirmed now waiting on scan just after xmas to know my fate treatment wise. I just cannot stand any more xmas music. It’s everywhere. Kids are adults so counting my blessings. Have just about managed to pull xmas together , wrapping presents last minute tomorrow keeping a smile on my face but can’t wait for it to be over.

My beautiful son attempted suicide, 2 weeks ago then 2 days later my darling dad died, yesterday we got our son back home as he was in a psychiatric hospital and I saw my dad in the chapel of rest. Tomorrow I have 4 of my grandchildren and I need to be happy and excited when all I want to do is spend a few hours to myself to cry.

My son is travelling to visit his Dad this Christmas so I’ll be alone on Christmas morning. While I don’t mind it, it can be lonely especially as I get older. It’ll be me and the dog. Have had cancer this year and have not had time to process it so maybe that’s what this quiet pocket is for. The collective strength shown here is incredible. ♥️

I usually like this time, but Christmas can do one this year (apart from the food - I'll have that, girl gotta comfort eat)

Luckily I'm not Emma Thompsoning because it is just me and the dog and she doesnt know it's Christmas.

Sending all my love and strength to everyone struggling this Christmas.

Sadly also channelling my inner Emma Thompson here too.

Uncovered STBX’s affair a few months ago, but because I currently don’t have a permanent job I’m stuck here, and haven’t told family because I can’t deal with having to explain why I can’t rationally just up and leave when I might not have an income in a couple of months.

Its utterly ridiculous and I’m so mad at myself for being in this position.

This time next year I’ll be in my own calm quiet space without all this shite, until then I’ll be Emma Thompsonning with the best of you.

This ❤️

I was on my own at 32 and found Christmas hard. Same feelings as you describe. But in all likelihood nice things WILL happen in your life. I met my DH at 38. You have to keep the faith and believe that you are a good person, full of vitality with lots to give both to yourself and others. You are enough, believe it.
This thread, as others have said, is very moving. Women are amazing in their sisterhood and empathy. Sending warmest support to everyone on here with their troubles X

Thank you for not judging

@Dustyfustyoldcarcass
I am sorry for your sad news .
Please take care of yourself and remember you can only do so much xx

Jfc you're cold.

What a moving thread. I am so sorry for everything you are all going through.💔
You are heard, and so you should be. It's a particularly brutal time of year for anyone suffering. 💐💐💐

Last year my life imploded when I discovered the most horrific secret. I’m now living in an alternate reality where I look like I’m living my life but inside I feel hollow and there is no joy in anything I do.

And I’m sure if you’d have thought about how ridiculous your post sounds you may well have decided not to be so lacking in compassion and empathy and decided against actually pressing send.

Not quite the same but I've completely fucked up at work, like life ending (as in mine, I haven't harmed anyone else) I have to own up when we go back in January. It will be the end of my marriage, my kids will never see me the same and at best I'm going to walk away with nothing.

I've just got this last Christmas as a family before our world implodes and it is all my fault.

Nothing like on the scale of what others are enduring but I'm so sad. I lost my job a few months ago and DH and I are so far apart we are less than housemates at this point. We've separated before and I think we will again next year. Things are not improving. I have no one close who I feel cares about me. My rage is coming out at my poor beautiful children and my relationship with my DD is really suffering. I think at this point everyone would be better if I just left this house.

God bless you , sending you my very best wishes x

MIL died last week, DH has pneumonia, the car battery died and the washer went on the blink.

After some antibiotics DH is feeling physically better, a new battery sorted the car and BIL gave the washer a stern talking to (and probably a good kicking if I’m honest) any it lurched back to life.

Thank fuck the car passed its MOT yesterday or I’d have gone off the deep end.

The kids are oblivious to all, except the odd bout of grief.

Sending hugs. I’d bet my house you’re lovely IRL. Sometimes some of us don’t get allocated the Mothers we deserve. Mine had Narcissistic Personality Disorder (not that she would’ve recognised it) and I feel absolute relief now she’s dead and so is the inevitable drama. She was single-handedly responsible for all of my shittiest Christmas’s and in the main tried to ruin the others she wasn’t even at/invited to. That said, having her as my mother has made me the woman I am today - I am successful and I am a great mother myself (I literally just think “what would my mother do in this situation?” And do the reverse) and her cruelty did not break me. Someone said on the radio yesterday ‘Success is having children that want to spend time with you’ which is lovely. I have that. My mother didn’t. I bet you do/will. Don’t waste time over the fact your mother won’t ever say sorry to you. Believe in yourself. You are good enough. 💐

To everyone else on this thread, sending solidarity. And 💐. And raising a glass to those of us who lift each other up when things are tough. 🍷

Its not nothing , debt is very stressful .hope things get better for you in the New Year x