Coping with loneliness at Christmas
Many people spend Christmas alone. Perhaps you don’t have family nearby, have lost loved ones or are restricted by illness. Here, I share some ways to keep upbeat and busy if you’re alone at Christmas, and where you can go for support if you need it.
Ways to combat loneliness
Spending Christmas alone can be tough, but there are things you can do to help you feel less lonely.
Keep busy
Think about how you’d like to spend your time over Christmas so you can plan ahead. Think about all the things you enjoy doing – or never usually have time to do. There may be some Christmas specials on TV, or a film or boxset you’ve been meaning to watch. You could also:
- start a new book, or why not write your own short story
- do a jigsaw puzzle – challenge yourself and go for one with lots of pieces
- learn a new craft skill, such as knitting or painting
- cook or bake – you could make jam or chutney, which will last for months ahead
Get outside
If you can, try to get outside – even if it’s just for a short walk. Getting outside for some light exercise can lift your mood, as well as keep you active. Head somewhere you can connect with nature if possible, whether it’s a woodland, park or pond. Take in the sounds, smells and sights around you.
It might also be a chance to engage with others. Even a short chat with a neighbour can help you to feel connected and give you a boost.
Indulge yourself
Why not treat yourself to some of your favourite foods and drinks? You don’t need to please anyone else or follow tradition (unless that’s something you enjoy). Try not to overdo it though – drinking or eating to excess can make you feel worse.
Think of other ways to treat yourself too.
- Take a long bath.
- Pamper yourself.
- Wear your comfiest pyjamas.
Use social media wisely
If you use social media, bear in mind that Christmas-related posts and photos from others may make you feel more isolated. If you do feel this way, consider a social media break over Christmas, especially when you’re alone.
On the other hand, social media can be a great way to connect with others. One example is the #JoinIn campaign, run by comedian, Sarah Millican. This is aimed at people on their own at Christmas who would like to connect with others.
Have a look for online groups to connect with others with similar interests, or people who are in a similar situation to you.
Have something to look forward to
Christmas can feel less lonely when you have something to look forward to in the new year. Maybe you want to plan a trip or arrange to meet with friends or family after Christmas. This may help you get through the festive period.
You’re not alone with loneliness
If you’re on your own, take heart in the knowledge that you’re not the only one. If you have loved ones you’d like to connect with over Christmas, make the effort to do so. It may well boost their spirits as well as yours. Whether it’s a video call, phone call, sending a Christmas card or a text message – there are plenty of ways to stay in touch.
Where to turn for support and advice
If you’re feeling lonely or low over Christmas, there are support groups and charities you can contact. These include silver line, mind and the Samaritans. It’s always better to reach out for help than suffer in silence.
If you’re worried about your mental health, our direct access service aims to provide you with the advice, support and treatment you need as quickly as possible. You’ll be able to get mental health advice and support usually without the need for a GP referral. Learn more today.
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Sources Sources
- Christmas and mental Health. Mind. www.mind.org.uk, published October 2021
- UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines. Department of Health and Social Care. www.gov.uk, published September 2019
- Franco LS, Shanahan DF, Fuller RA. A review of the benefits of nature experiences: more than meets the eye. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2017;14(8): 864. doi:10.3390/ijerph14080864
- Five ways to mental wellbeing. Government Office for Science. GOV UK. www.gov.uk, published 22 October 2008
- Karim F, Oyewande AA, Abdalla LF, et al. Social media use and its connection to mental health: a systematic review. Cureus 2020;12(6):e8627. doi:10.7759/cureus.8627
- #JoinIn. Sarah Millican. sarahmillican.co.uk, accessed 14 December 2021
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