Loneliness During the Holiday: How to Feel Connected

During the holiday season, we can tend to feel lonelier than during other times of the year. In this blog post, we will explore why this may be, and how to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Understanding Holiday Loneliness:

Although loneliness exists throughout the year, we often feel particularly lonely around the holiday season, whether we plan to spend the holiday with family or not. We can feel embarrassed or ashamed if we spend the holiday alone, or isolated and down even if we are surrounded by family. You may also feel lonely if you have experienced the loss of a loved one, and are going through the holidays for the first time without them. You may wish to be with your family, but are unable due to financial strain, work schedule, etc.

Recognizing Signs of Holiday Loneliness:

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to explore your feelings of isolation or loneliness: Do I feel sad or empty when I wake up on the holiday? Am I worried about feeling disconnected from friends or family? Do I feel mean or critical towards myself for spending this holiday alone? Do I withdraw from social settings, or not respond to people when they reach out? Am I “doom scrolling” on social media the whole holiday? If these ring true, you may be experiencing holiday loneliness.

Strategies to Combat Holiday Loneliness:

Seek out Connection: Call a friend or family member to wish them a happy holiday. Maybe even tell them you are grateful for their friendship and kindness. Try calling or texting a few people to engage in social interactions of some sort.

Volunteer: Try to get out of the house and connect with people in your community. Often times, local non-profits have organized volunteer events on holidays, so do some research in your area to find something that speaks to you. Try to interact with the other volunteers, and find gratitude in the work you are doing.

Explore Community Events: Maybe sign up for a Turkey Trot, or join in on a town holiday-themed activity. Most cities have organized events for the residents to participate in. Even better, try hosting your own event for the community with a friend or two! 

Self-Care: Make the holiday a full on self-care day. Watch a favorite movie, cook a favorite meal, or read a favorite book. Rather than focusing on what you are not doing on the holiday, focus on what you can do to make the day more special. Even start a tradition for solo holidays that you enjoy! 

Try some of these techniques out the next time you are feeling some holiday loneliness. This feeling of isolation is quite common for people, but it also can be alleviated with actionable goals to stay more connected and feel more supported. 

Written by: Piper Benjamin