Christmas is one of the most exciting times of the year, but it’s also a time that can leave us feeling exhausted and drained. So to combat that, we’ve put together some handy tips to help you make the most of the university break, and to keep your well-being in check.

1. Be prepared

During the festive season it’s easy to become overwhelmed, which more than likely leads to unnecessary stress. Planning ahead as much as possible in the run up to Christmas helps you to stay organised, stops you forgetting things and ultimately it will keep your mental health in check.

2. Spend sensibly

Budgeting over the Christmas period can really help you to stay on track and helps you to keep control of your finances. Try not to feel pressured into spending money that you either don’t have or spending it on things that you don’t need.

3. Try to keep a balanced diet

Christmas and over indulgence tend to go hand in hand, but keeping your diet as balanced as possible can really help to keep your well-being in a positive state. But a couple of mince pies shouldn’t do any harm!

4. Drink in moderation

Drinking is all fun and games, until it goes too far! Although alcohol is a known relaxant, excessive drinking can sometimes leave you feeling low and sensitive. Drinking within the recommended guidelines will still allow you to have a good time, but it’ll keep your well-being in check. Click here for alcohol guidelines.

5. Don’t forget to move

Keeping active throughout the festive period may be the last thing on your mind, but exercise has been scientifically proven to improve mental health and boost well-being. If you’re unsure of what exercise to do over the holiday, a wintery walk in the fresh December air will work wonders.

6. Get enough sleep

Sleep is often something that we can neglect, and over the holidays your sleep pattern is at risk of becoming quite irregular. Keeping your sleep pattern as normal for you as possible is really important for your mental health. Try and aim for 7 – 9 hours per night, more information can be found here.

7. If you’re on your own, do what you love

Lots of us may be spending Christmas alone, and there’s no harm in that. Have a little think about what you want to do before the day itself, so that you can really make the most of it. You might want to read your favourite book, chill out with a new TV series or pre-book a Christmas meal in town.

8. Don’t compare yourself to others

Whether it’s a beautifully decorated tree, a delicious meal with friends or a tonne of perfectly wrapped presents; Christmas is a season that lends itself to social media. Getting hung up on this and comparing yourself to other people isn’t great for your well-being. Just be mindful that things may not always be as they seem!

9. Remember to enjoy it!

Whether you’re enjoying some time on your own or spending the holidays with your family, try your best to enjoy it. After all, it only happens once a year!