People with a disability and their carers in the Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay regions are advised to take extra care of themselves during the festive period.
Specialist allied health and assessment services provider LiveBig chief executive Juliet Middleton said with businesses closing over the Christmas period, many support providers will no longer have regular appointments available for their clients.
“While an allied health clinician would provide exercises or activities to do over this time, not having an appointment can make people feel more isolated,” she said.
“They may also have family or friends heading away for the holiday season that they would usually rely on to be there, which may lead to them to feeling some negative emotions and isolation.”
Ms Middleton said other sources of stress can also be booking accommodation and making travel arrangements.
“Changes in regular schedules can also lead to heightened anxiety and feeling overwhelmed,” she said.
“For those trying to maintain rehabilitation or recovery during this period, it can be challenging to stay focused.”
Strategies to help loved ones and their carers manage the busy period include keeping in touch with friends and family, respecting limits, planning ahead and practicing healthy habits.
Workplace rehabilitation provider Rehab Management general manager Renee Thornton said recovery for injured workers is a journey.
“While it can be a challenge over this period with the distraction of holidays, it is important for the injured worker to continue with their program so their recovery is not impacted.
“By neglecting rehabilitation and becoming unfocused, it can stop people moving forward, which may delay recovery or impact their success.
“For managing mental health issues, the festive season can also magnify financial issues, family conflict and loneliness and increase stress for people with anxiety and depression.”
