The festive season is known as a time of joy and connection; however this isn’t the case for everyone! Sometimes, it can have the opposite effect, and you may feel lonely and disconnected more now, than ever this year. You might feel pressure to immerse yourself into the festive fun, but the truth is, you’re not always up to it and would much rather be cosy at home with a cuppa than dancing the night away with a cocktail in hand.
There may be times when you’re included in the festivities but are finding it difficult to be present whether it’s around family, friends or colleagues, you can still feel a sense of disconnect and loneliness. It could be that you’ve lost a loved one during this time, and every year you feel their absence, or you might be going through a tough time in your life and are finding it difficult to navigate. Whatever it is, it’s important to remember that you are not alone, and you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Why not practise a few of these activities to help you deal with loneliness at Christmas?
Explore ways of finding a connection
Push yourself out of your comfort zone and speak to strangers whether it be in the supermarket whilst doing your food shop, or on the train during your daily commute. You might also want to join a club and make new friends, from sports clubs through to book clubs, there’s something out there for everyone.
Get dates in the diary and keep busy
Planning what you enjoy does wonders for your mental health. Keep yourself & your mind busy by getting things in the diary that bring you joy. You’ll have something to look forward to which will help to boost your mood. Everyone enjoys different things, so don’t put pressure on yourself to fit into societal ‘norms’.
Be open about your feelings
When feeling lonely, opening up to someone about how you’re feeling might be the last thing you want to do, but it can help with the way you are feeling. Whether it be colleagues, family or friends, those that care about you will want to be there for you, and may be experiencing the same feelings you are.
Look after yourself
Don’t feel pressured to follow Christmas traditions if you don’t enjoy them. Instead, treat yourself to your favourite things, and make yourself a priority. Take a long bath, watch your favourite film, indulge in your favourite food and drink. Whatever it is that you love doing, do it!
Whilst you may be feeling lonely during the festive period, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many others going through the same thing, and you should never feel embarrassed or ashamed of the way you feel.
At MIMHC we’re committed to providing tips to help with your mental wellbeing over Christmas and the winter months. Keep your eyes peeled for more useful resources over the coming weeks to keep your cup full.