Facing the Holidays Alone? Ways to Deal with Loneliness

The holidays can be a cheery, festive time of year – but if you’re feeling lonely during these long holiday months, it’s not quite so merry. Perhaps you live too far away from some of your loved ones to spend time with them. Maybe you’re strapped for cash, and you can’t go to all of the holiday events you would like to. Or maybe you’re in a transitional phase in your life, and you’ve been seeking out a new social group.

Thankfully, there are ways to make the most of the season, whether you’re surrounded by loved ones or mainly flying solo. Here are a few ways to remedy loneliness during the holidays.

Reach Out to Faraway Family and Friends

If you live on the other side of the country from your loved ones, and you don’t have a thriving social group in your new city just yet, pick up the phone and make a few calls.

Let your friends and relatives know just how much you miss them, and wish them well for the holiday season – chances are, they’re thinking of you, too, and wishing they could spend more time with you. They will probably be happy to see your name pop up on their phones!

Volunteer

One of the best ways to spark joy this holiday season? Volunteer for a cause you believe in! Whether you want to roll up your sleeves to help out at your church, feed the homeless, or visit a nursing home, there are plenty of people who are in need at this time of year, and volunteering your time can really make a difference.

After volunteering, you’ll likely feel more connected with the people around you. See which organizations could use an extra set of hands – there will be no shortage of opportunities to help!

Get Involved With Your Community

Are there any big holiday gatherings going on around town? Does your neighbor need someone to help shovel snow? Keep an eye out for opportunities to socialize. You never know who else in your neighborhood could use a friend this time of year. You may even be able to find a holiday potluck dinner to contribute to.

Take a Trip

No real plans with family this holiday season? When you look at your schedule, are you pretty much free of commitments? Well, why not take it as an excuse to do a little traveling? Chances are, you have at least a few days off from work, and you can finally embark on that trip you have always wanted to take.

It’s such a popular time of year for travel that meeting other people on the road will be a piece of cake. The idea of spending your holidays somewhere new might feel strange at first, but if being in your city is getting you down, then there is no shame in opting for a change of pace instead.

Do Your Own Thing

Being alone does not have to mean being lonely. Try to make the most of your solo status, and use it as a chance to do your own thing.

Not a big fan of holiday movie marathons? Here’s the good news – you can watch whatever you like. Prefer to stay in instead of going out to big parties anyway? Stock up on baking supplies, make yourself some cookies and hot cocoa, and curl up with a good book on a chilly evening instead. You can start creating your own traditions this year.

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Feeling lonely this holiday season? Wondering if talking to a therapist could help you process these emotions? We are here to help.  Contact me soon to schedule a session.