Spiralling and its nearly Christmas

[Nightbound]

What do you do when you know you're spiralling struggling to cope, still got responsibilities so can't get a break, and Christmas obligations and fake people? I just want a break from it all.

Sorry you're feeling overwhelmed op.

In your shoes I would separate my actual responsibilities that I HAVE to do, from other people's expectations of me. I know it's not always easy in practice though.

Can you make a list? Prioritise anything?

Don't be afraid to let people down if you have to.

Thank you, its mainly Christmas that brings expectations from other people and that damages my mental health.
Good idea about the list, I'll do that.

I have had a very stressful couple of weeks and christmas and all the events in the lead up is overwhelming me.

I have made a schedule of all the days and put in what is happening when, what I need to do/prep on what days and even what meals I am doing. I have found this has helped calm my mind slightly - I still need to do all of it but it has broken it down and I can see the wood for the trees!

Very organised!

This !
I have over committed in the past. Sometimes I still do. I am now honest with people - those who mattter dont care and understand. Those who do care don't matter. I have close friends who also over commit and cancel on me. We are honest.

I know it is easier said than done, but try not to compare yourself to others and have the mindset

'Good enough is good enough'
I am introducing a few new traditions this year -
I have just my 2 kids this year - I have asked them what food they want and ordered it. It is in the freezer so just need a couple of bits to get closer to the day.
It may be different from how xmas at their dad's /nan is, BUT they are not given ownership there / choice.
My 2 wont be back from uni until late - I have limited decorations this year - a few lights in the window and rather than a tree I am decorating some branches in my fireplace. Tinsel round the photos. Less to put away afterwards.

I have some events planned (London and family ) but I am going to ensure I have plenty of days where I have no plans/obligations with people - where i can please myself ({read/knit/gym etc)

I am volunteering too (do it regularly) as I find this altruism does take my focus off me !

All the best and be kind to yourself

I’ve managed Christmas tightly to limit my stress but the other thing I do is accept that until new year it will be horrific and then plan some stuff in January to look forward to.
i have both my chikdren’s birthdays and we always host Christmas and all the normal friends etc…. Mid November I have a massive cry (reality programme normally helps) and then just get my head down.

good luck..