Finding Support If the Festive Period Feels Overwhelming
You're not alone, and help is available
If You Need to Talk to Someone Right Now
In a Crisis or Emergency
If you or someone you care for is in immediate danger, call 999.
If you're having suicidal thoughts or are in urgent mental distress:
Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option for urgent support
Call 999 if you feel you cannot keep yourself safe
The festive season can bring extra pressure for carers. Between managing usual caring responsibilities and navigating the expectations that often come with this time of year, it's completely understandable if things feel too much.
Whether you need someone to talk to right now, practical advice, or simply want to know what support is out there, this page brings together the resources available to you in Cornwall and across the UK.
Samaritans
Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Phone: 116 123 (free from any phone)
Email: jo@samaritans.org (reply within 24 hours)
Whatever you're facing, Samaritans volunteers are there to listen without judgement.
24/7 Listening and Emotional Support
SANEline
National mental health helpline
Phone: 0300 304 7000
Open: 4pm – 10pm every day
Email: support@sane.org.uk (72-hour turnaround)
Offers specialist emotional support and information for anyone affected by mental health issues, including carers.
Mind
Mental health information and support
Phone: 0300 123 3393
Open: Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm (except bank holidays)
Provides information, support and guidance on mental health issues. Can help you find local support services and offer advice for carers supporting someone with mental health problems.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
Support for anyone struggling with life's problems
Phone: 0800 58 58 58
Webchat and WhatsApp also available
Open: 5pm – midnight, 365 days a year
Website: www.thecalmzone.net
Offers confidential support and practical suggestions for all of life's problems including anxiety, relationship concerns, health worries, money worries or suicidal thoughts.
Cornwall Carers Service Support
Cornwall Carers Service provides information, advice and guidance for unpaid carers throughout Cornwall. Our team can listen to your situation and help connect you with support designed specifically for your needs.
Get in touch with Cornwall Carers Service:
Phone: 01736 756655
When you contact us, you'll speak to a Carer Support Coordinator who can:
Listen to your story and current situation
Provide information about support services available to you
Help you access a Carer's Assessment
Signpost you to other organisations that can help
Discuss respite care options and community support
Did you know? As a carer, you're entitled to a Carer's Assessment from Cornwall Council. This is a chance to talk about your needs and explore what help might be available. There's no charge for an assessment.
Cornwall Council Adult Care Services
Cornwall Council can provide support for adults with care needs and their carers. This includes emergency planning and accessing support services.
Cornwall Council Adult Care Services:
Phone: 0300 1234 131
Phone lines open at 10am on Wednesdays, 9am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and close at 6pm.
If you need to request help or an assessment for yourself or the person you care for, you can do this online at www.cornwall.gov.uk/health-and-social-care.
Health Support and Advice
NHS 111
Phone: 111 (available 24/7)
Call NHS 111 if:
You or the person you care for need health advice or assessment
You're feeling unwell but it's not an emergency
You need mental health support (select the mental health option)
Practical Coping Strategies for the Festive Season
While reaching out for support is vital, here are some practical approaches that other carers have found helpful during busy or overwhelming times:
Permission to Say No
You don't have to attend every event or meet every expectation. It's okay to decline invitations, simplify traditions, or opt out of activities that feel too demanding right now. Your wellbeing matters.
Lower Your Expectations
The festive period doesn't need to look the way it used to, or the way it appears on social media. A quieter, simpler celebration that works for you and those you care for is absolutely valid.
Ask for Specific Help
If friends or family ask, "Is there anything I can do?", have some specific tasks ready to suggest. Whether it's picking up shopping, spending an hour with the person you care for, or cooking a meal, people often want to help but need guidance.
Plan Ahead for Emergencies
Having an emergency plan can ease anxiety. This might include keeping a list of important contacts, arranging backup support if you become unwell, or ensuring you have essential supplies. Cornwall Carers Service can help you put an emergency plan in place.
Take Moments for Yourself
Even 10 minutes of quiet, a short walk, or time doing something you enjoy can make a difference. These aren't luxuries – they're necessities for your wellbeing.
Remember
Caring for someone is demanding at any time of year, and the festive season can amplify that pressure. Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or even resentful doesn't make you a bad carer – it makes you human.
Reaching out for support isn't failing. It's recognising your own needs and taking steps to look after yourself so you can continue in your caring role. The services listed on this page exist specifically to support you.
You deserve support, rest, and kindness – including from yourself. Please don't hesitate to use any of these resources. You're not alone in this.
