Tamworth psychologist on the clock to help those in need over Christmas

“There’s a special need over the Christmas period,” Tamworth psychologist James Riley said.

While many businesses take time at the end of the year to log out and clock off, Mr Riley will be one of a number of mental health workers still on the clock around the region.

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In song, it may be known as the “most wonderful time of the year”, but it’s an emotionally difficult time for many, mental health workers say, with feelings of loss, isolation and stress often amplified.

“The festive season can bring a focus on buying presents which can lead to anxiety and financial stress,” Mr Riley said.

“There’s pain from family rifts at a time when families get together.

“Young people can be suffering recent divorces or separation loss of a parent and coping with that.”

The Tamworth psychologist said “having some social connection is really important” at this time of year.

“Go and seek social connection,” he said.

“Get out and go for a walk or some physical activity.”

While it’s also a celebratory time for Mr Riley, he said there was a need for people in his profession to be on-duty.

“Working in a helping profession, you know this is a busy time and it can often be a period which causes distress,” he said.

NSW Health’s chief psychiatrist Murray Wright echoed Mr Riley’s point that it could be a exacerbating for vulnerable people.

“The risk of self-harm and suicide increases in the days following Christmas and also on New Year’s Day,” Dr Wright said.

“For people with a depressive illness or experiencing severe stress the festive season can be an emotionally difficult time.

“We often don’t know what personal challenges people are facing, so it’s important – especially at times of greater risk such as the Christmas/New Year season – to look out for those around us and be inclusive to help them through.”