Strategies for Coping With Loneliness During the Holidays

The holidays are often portrayed as a joyful season filled with festive shopping trips, gift exchanges, and gatherings with family and friends. Yet, for many people, it can be one of the loneliest times of the year.

Whether due to living a great distance from family, the recent loss of a loved one, relationship changes, or simply not having a close-knit social circle, isolation during the holidays is more common than many realize. Fortunately, there are practical and meaningful ways to prevent and manage loneliness during this time of year.

What can you do to avoid feeling isolated and lonely when most people you encounter seem to be celebrating the season? We have some suggestions you might find useful.

Managing Isolation and Loneliness During the Holidays

• Acknowledge your feelings: The first step in addressing holiday loneliness is to accept your emotions without judgment. It’s okay to feel sad, isolated, or left out during a time that seems to demand happiness. Ignoring or suppressing these feelings often makes them worse. Recognizing these emotions allows you to take proactive steps to express them in healthy ways, such as journaling or engaging in crafts.
• Create your own traditions: If traditional celebrations feel inaccessible or painful, consider creating new ones that reflect your current situation and interests. You might host a “Friendsgiving,” plan a solo trip you’ve always wanted to take, volunteer at a local shelter, or spend the day doing something that brings you joy, such as learning how to make sourdough bread, going for a hike, or indulging in a marathon viewing of a favorite old television series. Personal traditions, even simple ones, can give you a sense of control and meaning during a season that can otherwise feel empty.
• Connect in new ways: Even if you’re physically alone during the holidays, technology can help you feel connected. Schedule video chats with friends or family. Join virtual communities or online events tailored to your interests, such as a book club, a support group, or a holiday-themed virtual meetup. Social media can be a double-edged sword, but when used thoughtfully, it can also provide a sense of connection and remind you that you’re not alone.
• Reach out to others: One of the most effective ways to combat loneliness is to reach out, especially to others who may be feeling the same way. Remember that an estimated 66% of people feel lonely during the holidays. Send a holiday card, text an old friend, or invite someone over for a coffee or walk. Acts of kindness not only brighten someone else’s day but also improve your own mental well-being. Sometimes, just initiating contact can open the door to meaningful conversations and connections.
• Volunteer your time: Helping others is a powerful antidote to loneliness. Volunteering during the holidays can create a sense of purpose and connection. You could help serve meals at a shelter, donate toys to children in need, or walk dogs at a local animal rescue. Giving back allows you to shift the focus from what’s missing in your life to how you can positively impact others.
• Focus on your own wellness: Loneliness can directly affect your physical and mental health, so it’s important to take care of both. Prioritize regular exercise, a balanced diet, hydration, and adequate sleep. Incorporate mindfulness or relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to help manage stress and anxiety. If feelings of loneliness persist or worsen, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy can provide support and tools for managing emotions during difficult times.
• Plan ahead: Planning ahead can reduce the emotional weight of the holidays. If you know certain days will be difficult, prepare activities or distractions in advance. Having a plan in place—even if it’s as simple as a movie marathon or a scheduled walk—can help you feel more in control and less caught off guard by difficult emotions.

A Mobile Monitoring Device Brings Peace of Mind

As you can, get out and about during the holidays. Don’t let yourself feel cooped up and alone. Should you be concerned about safety, consider investing in a mobile monitoring device. If an emergency happens when you are away from your home, a simple press of a button can connect you with someone who can help. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!