Merry Christmas and Season's Greetings

As the festive season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle—racing to wrap up 2024, tackling endless to-do lists, and juggling life’s many demands. Yet, amidst the flurry of activity, we’re reminded that the most meaningful gifts aren’t found in stores or wrapped in shiny paper. They are the moments of connection, kindness, and presence that bring true joy and meaning to this special time of year.

This year, I invite you to embrace the idea of less presents and more presence. 

For some, this may mean cherishing time with family and friends. For others, it might involve reaching out to build new connections, practising small acts of kindness, or simply finding ways to nurture joy and care within yourself.

Presence can take many forms—a heartfelt conversation, a quiet act of self-care, or simply showing up for someone in need. It might mean reconnecting with a neighbour, sharing a smile with a stranger, offering comfort to someone feeling alone or pausing for quiet reflection. Even the smallest gestures can leave a lasting impact and bring warmth to the holiday season.

As we celebrate, let us also take a moment to reflect on the year that has been—the highs, the challenges, and the lessons learned—and look forward with hope to the opportunities ahead. Together, we can create a season filled with love, peace, and belonging, in ways that resonate most deeply with each of us.

From all of us at the Queensland Mental Health Commission, we wish you a joyful Christmas and a New Year filled with warmth, connection, and meaningful moments. Whether you celebrate with loved ones, find comfort in quiet reflection, or discover joy in new ways of connecting, may your holiday season be rich in the gifts of presence, love, and community.

Kind regards,
Ivan Frkovic
Queensland Mental Health Commissioner

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