NHS GP Dr Amir Khan has shared advice for women during the festive period
ITV’s resident doctor, Amir Khan, has shared a powerful message on his social media. As we approach December 25, he wants to ensure one particular message resonates with everyone.
In his Instagram post, the expert said the message is for “women who are holding it together for Christmas.” And the comments praised the expert for addressing the situation with all people urged to listen to the message.
He said: “Every year around Christmas, I see the same thing in clinic. Women who are exhausted, emotional rundown and quietly asking themselves ‘why can’t I cope’ and the answer is there’s nothing wrong with you.
“Christmas burnout hits women harder because it isn’t just about food or money or time, it’s about responsibility. Women are still expected to carry Christmas, to plan it, remember it, feel it, to anticipate everyone’s needs, their gifts, meals, family dynamics, emotions – often without being asked.”
The NHS GP, often featured on ITV talk shows, such as Lorraine, Loose Women and This Morning, added: “There’s also a huge social expectation to make Christmas magical. To host, to cook, to keep the peace, to look like you’re enjoying it even when you are exhausted. Now layer onto that the hormones, PMS, perimenopause, menopause, and stress hormones like cortisol, which stay high all day long.
“That affects sleep, mood, appetite, patience – everything. So if you’re more tearful, more irritable, craving sugar or just feeling overwhelmed, that’s not weakness, that’s biology colliding with social pressure.”
To conclude his message, he stressed: “You are not broken. That’s the part I really want women to hear. You’re not required to be perfect this Christmas. You don’t have to hold everything together. You don’t have to make it magical at your own expense. Lowering the bar isn’t failing; it’s self-protection.
“Rest isn’t laziness, saying no is not selfish. If Christmas feels heavy this year, you are not broken, you’re not doing anything wrong, you are just human – and sometimes the healthiest thing that you can do is to do less and let that be enough.”
His words clearly resonated with many, as the comment section was flooded with people sharing their own experiences of holiday stress, especially in the run-up to December 25.
One woman said: “Amir, you are just about the most fabulous person ever. You see us women. I just want to run away at the moment and just be still, quiet with no one wanting anything from me. Thank you fot recognising that we are not crazy.”
“Can we clone you into every GP surgery in the UK please?” another wrote.
A third commented: “Thanks Dr Khan. I really needed to hear this .”
What are the signs of burnout?
Experts from the BMA, state that you need to accept that you need help in the first instance. The signs can be physical, emotional and behavioural, and could include any of the following:
- Fatigue
- Poor concentration
- Lack of energy and effectiveness
- Cynicism
- Detachment
- Frustration and irritability
- Substance misuse
- Lower work standards
- Changes in – and inappropriate – behaviour
It warns: “This list is not exhaustive and if you are just not feeling yourself, it is important to acknowledge this.”
Asking people to seek help, experts at the NHS’ Keeping Well say that they are there to help support you. Get in touch with them by calling 0300 123 1705.
You can also email them on keepingwell.nwl@nhs.net. Alternatively, you can complete a self-referral form here
