The holiday season can be busy, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming. Even when it's filled with joy, it can still bring pressure, tiredness, or big feelings.

This guide is here to help you protect your wellbeing, slow down, and stay supported during this time of year.

1. Check In With Yourself

Tune in to how you're feeling. Ask yourself:

Am I tired?
Am I feeling stressed or overloaded?
Do I need a break?

Listening to your body and emotions helps you choose what's right for you.

2. Keep Small Routines

Even during busy holidays, try to keep the basics steady:

Eat regularly
Keep a sleep routine
Take quiet breaks
Stick to your usual supports or medications

Small routines = big stability.

3. Stay Close to Supportive People

Spend time with people who make you feel:

Safe
Calm
Respected
Included

This could be family, friends, neighbours, community groups, or support workers.

4. Move Your Body

Movement helps your mood. Try:

A walk outside
Gentle stretching
A short activity you enjoy

Fresh air + movement = more energy and clearer thinking.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

Give yourself permission to:

Say no to things that feel too much
Take time out
Choose quieter or smaller activities
Rest without guilt

You don't have to do everything. You just have to take care of you.

6. Take a Break

The holiday season can increase pressure on you and your carer. It is okay to need extra support, especially when life feels busier than usual. One way to do this is through Short Term Respite.

Short Term Respite can help you both stay well and supported.

What It Is

A short break where you stay somewhere else for a few days and get support with:

Daily tasks
Personal care
Social activities
Community access

It might be for a few days or a little longer, depending on what you need.

Why It Helps

Short Term Respite gives:

You a chance to rest, recharge, try new things, or meet new people
Your carer time to take a break, reset, and look after their own health

Respite helps keep everyone's wellbeing strong, especially during busy holiday periods.

WHERE TO GET HELP & SUPPORT

💙 NDIS & Disability Supports

If you think Short Term Respite might help you over the festive season, you can:

Support Coordinator or LAC- helps you plan extra support or respite
NDIS Hotline (24/7): 1800 800 110
NDIA website information and guidance

🆘 If You Need Immediate Emotional Support

Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

You are never alone. There is always support available. This season is not just about celebration, it's about your wellbeing, your rest, and your peace of mind. Taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do

The holidays can be joyful but also stressful. Plan small moments for yourself, reach out for support, and remember: you cannot pour from an empty cup.

BCD is here for you: Contact Us

Holiday Season Wellbeing Guide: Looking After Yourself & Knowing Where to Get Support