News / By Fire Up / 23rd December 2025
After a long year, many people see Christmas as a time to rest and recharge. But for some, it can feel stressful, overwhelming, or lonely. If you work for yourself, it might be even harder to switch off because of money worries or the urge to keep working.
That’s okay. Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect. If you find it hard, you’re not alone. There are simple ways to make things easier. Here are some tips from Mind and Mental Health UK to help you take care of yourself this festive season.
Why Christmas Can Be Hard
Mind says this time of year can bring extra pressure, changes to your routine, money worries, and reminders of loss or tough relationships. Knowing these feelings are normal is the first step to being kind to yourself.
Why the Christmas Break Can Be Tough for Freelancers and the Self-Employed
A report from IPSE called Taking Time Off as a Freelancer shows that many self-employed people find it hard to switch off, even at Christmas:
- Freelancers take an average of 24 days off per year, compared with 28 days typical for employees.
- Alarmingly, 9% took no days off, while 14% took fewer than five days annually.
- Most still work during their breaks, with 78% admitting they worked while on holiday.
These numbers matter because many people find it hard to rest over Christmas. Even with money worries, taking time off helps: 92% said it improved their wellbeing, 59% felt their work–life balance got better, and 44% saw better relationships and less stress.
If you’re self-employed, Christmas is a good chance to take a break. Set your boundaries early and let people know when you’re available. Taking time off is important for your wellbeing and your business.
Ways to Look After Yourself This Christmas
Be Kind to Yourself
Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s okay to say no, try something new, or just take a day for yourself. Your wellbeing comes first.
Plan Ahead
Think ahead about what could be hard and make a plan. Try to keep some routines, set aside time to rest, and check when places like pharmacies are open. If you take medication, make sure you have enough for the holidays.
Manage Money Worries
Spending at Christmas can feel excessive. Set a budget you can manage, talk honestly with family and friends, and look for free or low-cost activities. Remember, those glossy Christmas adverts rarely reflect real life.
Take Care of Your Wellbeing
Take a winter walk, eat balanced meals, spend some time away from social media, and enjoy simple things like reading, listening to music, baking, or volunteering.
Talk to Someone
Talking to someone you trust about how you feel can help. You can also connect with others through Mind’s Side by Side online community.
If you’d like to add fresh air to your self-care, consider local walks this Christmas:
If you want to get outside and stretch your legs in Rochdale over the holidays, here are some easy local walks to try. These start with free options for all abilities:
1) Hollingworth Lake Circular
This is an easy, accessible walk around Hollingworth Lake. There are several cafes for refreshments and a new sensory garden near the old visitor centre.
https://www.rochdale.gov.uk/sp...
2) Healey Dell Nature Reserve
Walk through woodland paths, see the River Spodden waterfalls, and visit the impressive 100-foot viaduct.
https://www.visitrochdale.com/...
3) Rochdale Canal Towpath (Littleborough ↔ Rochdale)
The Rochdale Canal Towpath is a flat walk by the water, with many places to start and finish, so you can choose how far to go. It’s also close to train stations for convenience.
https://www.visitrochdale.com/...
4) Rochdale Town Centre - Parks & Gardens walk
This 40-minute walk visits the best parks and gardens in Rochdale town centre, showing you their history and great views. There’s also a shorter route if you prefer.
https://www.visitrochdale.com/...
If you want even more festive activity ideas in Rochdale:
Check out Visit Rochdale’s guide here.
Where to Find More Support
* Mind’s Christmas & Mental Health Guide
* Mental Health UK's Christmas guide and resources
* Urgent Help if you’re in crisis