At Juno, we want to remind you that it’s okay to take a breath. You don’t have to do it all. Here are some simple ways to stay grounded and look after yourself through this hectic month.
Take Things One Day at a Time
When your to-do list is endless, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Try focusing on just one day, or even one moment, at a time. Ask yourself: what’s actually urgent? What can wait? Some things will matter more than others and that’s okay.
Be Gentle With Yourself
You might be juggling work, childcare, money worries, difficult relationships and the emotional weight of current or past trauma. That’s a lot. Be kind to yourself. You are doing your best, and that’s enough.
If you’re feeling low or anxious, take a break. Breathe. Do something small that soothes you. This could be a warm drink, a quiet moment outside or writing in a journal. These tiny acts of care can make a big difference.
Set Boundaries Where You Can
It’s okay to say no. Whether it’s too stressful family visits, over-the-top spending, or unrealistic expectations. You’re allowed to protect your peace as much as you can. This can be difficult in a domestic abuse situation though, we understand. If a situation feels unsafe or overwhelming, give yourself permission to walk away or make a different choice.
Boundaries are an act of self-respect. They are not selfishness. Lots of women, and girls, struggle to understand or use boundaries, but they can be an essential tool to help you live a better life. Below is a book that may help you, or search for Boundaries on YouTube or TikTok and you will find plenty of videos:
Be Organised – But Keep It Simple
Try making a list of what actually needs to happen this month. What meals do you need to plan? What events (if any) will you attend? Can you shop early or ask someone to help?
You don’t need to go over the top. Children don’t remember the most expensive toy – they remember love, laughter, and feeling safe. A simple day filled with warmth is worth far more than a stressful one filled with gadgets.
And if you don’t think your children feel safe, then think about whether it’s time now to make a change. Yes, it’s close to Christmas, but this isn’t a reason to stay. We know too that domestic abuse often increases around the Christmas season, so that is another reason to think more about this situation.
But thinking by yourself can tie you up in knots. So, why not call our helpline and just chat to one of our friendly team of women, many of whom are survivors of domestic abuse themselves? There’s no pressure from us to do anything. Just making a call though could help you consider options for your life, and the lives of any children or pets, to live free from fear.
If You’re in an Abusive Relationship
We know that December can be especially hard if you’re living with abuse. The pressure to “keep the peace” or put on a happy face can feel unbearable. Please know you are not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence.
If things feel unsafe, reach out to us. Juno’s friendly, non-judgemental female team are here every day and night, even during the holidays, and yes, that includes Christmas Day. We can help you plan, talk things through, or simply listen. We’re here 24/7, 365 days of the year.
Final Thoughts
December doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to be peaceful, or at the very least, manageable. You know you deserve peace and happiness. Think about how this time next year could bring you both of those things if you begin to consider making a change. The next few blogs over December and January will talk more of this, so please check back when you can.
Juno Help
Our helpline is open 24/7, 365 days a year. Our female team is friendly, supportive, and here to help – including over Christmas. You are never alone. You are never judged. We will listen, support and help you in any way you wish.
Calls to our helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones within the UK and do not appear on itemised bills. There is no pressure and everything is confidential.
Helpline: 0808 800 0340
Sometimes our helpline is busy and you might not get through the first time, so please try again. We will always call you back if you leave a message stating it is safe to do so and if you leave us a safe contact number in your message.
If you are hearing impaired, text “Relay/NGT” to 18001 0808 800 0340. This option is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.
You can also email us on [email protected] 9 am – 9 pm.
Please note, we may not be able to respond to emails straight away, but will try to reply within 24 hours.
National Help
If you’re further afield, you could contact other charities like Women’s Aid, who have instant messaging and email contact on their website: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247) also provide confidential support. They can help you make a safety plan, find safe housing, and access legal protections.
The deaf health charity Signhealth also runs a domestic abuse support service, DeafHope, using British Sign Language (BSL).
The Survivor’s Trust (for sexual abuse and assault support) – www.thesurvivorstrust.org