The festive season is celebrated as a time of joy and togetherness, filled with family gatherings, nights out, Christmas traditions, and shared meals. However, migrants’ mental health at Christmas can be uniquely impacted. Being far from loved ones, adapting to unfamiliar customs, and navigating language or cultural differences can make the holidays feel lonely or overwhelming. With a little empathy and inclusivity, we can help ensure the season feels welcoming and supportive for everyone. Here are some ways to support migrants with their mental health over the Christmas period:
- Acknowledge their culture: Ask about their own Christmas traditions and foods and, if possible, incorporate some of them into your celebrations to make them feel more included.
- Offer translation help:
If there are language barriers, can you assign someone to help them navigate conversations or encourage the use of mobile translation tools such as Google Translate. - Welcome their stories:
Encourage them to share stories from home, their customs, or how they typically celebrate during this time of year. - Be mindful of food preferences:
Consider their dietary needs or restrictions when planning meals to ensure they can enjoy the celebration without feeling excluded. - Help with connection:
Offer support for connecting with their family abroad through phone calls or video chats to reduce homesickness. - Invite them to gatherings:
For migrants who might not have local connections, could you invite them to join your celebration so they aren’t left feeling isolated and alone?
A personal tip for supporting migrants’ mental health at Christmas
I spoke with my colleague, Krzysztof, about supporting migrants mental health at Christmas. Originally from Poland, Krzysztof shared:
“Being away from home can be difficult during Christmas. Not able to see friends and family. Not feeling festive. But what can help is when we’re open and honest with people who are important to us. Perhaps this year – why don’t you call someone from abroad and tell them how you’re really feeling around Christmas. As Brene Brown once said: ‘Vulnerability is the risk we have to take if we want to experience connection’”.
Krzysztof believes that “Christmas is about people and sharing feelings. And if for whatever reason we can’t spend this time with loved ones, at least what we can do is be vulnerable. That way, we’re not suppressing our emotions, and they’ll also realise that Christmas can be challenging for us. But again, it’s up to us to communicate when we’re feeling homesick.”
Remember, Christmas is about connection and sharing. Being honest about how you feel can bring you closer to others, even when you’re far apart.
How will you check in on your loved ones this Christmas?
Let’s make this season a little kinder, a little more connected, and a lot more supportive. #ReachOutStayClose
Find out about our Suicide Prevention Training for High-Risk Communities here: stopsuicidepledge.org/training-and-community-talks/