Holidays are commonly associated with images of warm parties, family dinners, and celebrations. However, it might be a lonely and a tough period of the year to many individuals. The feeling of being lonely on the holidays is frightening whether you are distant to your family, you have lost someone, or you just feel lonely.

Luckily, there are healthy and purposeful manners to deal with this season, and even find comfort.

Understanding Holiday Loneliness

Why the Holidays Can Feel Hard

The season of holidays is usually focused on solidarity, affection, and unity. And to individuals who are alone, these cultural norms can bring out what is not there instead of what is there. Winters may be cold and this may make it more difficult to get out and remain socially active which may exacerbate feelings of isolation.

The idea of missing out on social media with posts of families and holiday outings may come into play. Or you might be troubled by the loss of the one you love. There is nothing wrong with these feelings; they are quite normal.

Recognizing the Signs of Anxiety and Loneliness

Solitude, however, does not necessarily imply loneliness, but when you always worry or feel sad when you are alone, there is a possibility that you have anxiety connected to isolation.

Common signs include:

• Sleep problems or eating disorders.
• Negative thoughts or rumination.
• Sense of alienation or rejection.

There is panic or restlessness when considering solitude.

Strategies to Cope with Loneliness During the Holidays

Early identification of such signs can assist you to take proactive action in taking care of your mental condition before the emotions become intense.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Begin by accepting the way you are feeling without judgment. Faking it is not good because it only makes loneliness more complex. Attempt to write in a journal, discuss with a close friend, or consult a mental health professional. Labeling what you feel enables you to work through it and get on with it.

Redefine What the Holidays Mean to You

Traditions do not necessarily have to appear in one direction. When you are alone this year, come up with your own holidays. It can be spending Christmas Eve and watching your favourite films, preparing yourself a special meal or going and volunteering at a local food bank.

Stay Connected — Even from Afar

With the help of technology, it is now easier than ever to remain in touch. Arrange a virtual dinner with close people or make frequent phone calls. You might even take part in a holiday event on the Internet, organized by local libraries, community centres or religious organisations.

Engage with Your Community

One of the best methods of alleviating loneliness is volunteering. It provides you with a sense of purpose, organization and socialization. In assistance in the form of additional aid in the organization of activities throughout the holidays is often required by such organizations as Food Banks Canada, Meals on Wheels, and local shelters.

Benefiting others does not only help your community, but it also lowers stress levels, makes people feel connected, and makes you feel important.

Take Care of Your Body and Mind

The weather is cold and days are shorter. Take a moment to walk outside and take a breath, however, briefly. Sunlight exposure (or light therapy lamp) can be used to fight seasonal affective disorder (SAD) that is prevalent in winters.

Try to maintain a balanced routine:

• Eat nutritious meals.
• Exercise (yoga, stretching, or local rink skating) regularly.
• Be mindful or do deep breathing.
• Restrict alcohol, which may aggravate anxiety and depression.

It is not selfish, but necessary to take care of yourself.

Managing Holiday Anxiety

Focus on the Present Moment

The anxiety that can be experienced during holidays is mostly caused by thinking about what is lacking or worrying about the future. Mindfulness can make you remain grounded. Your mind will be relaxed by doing some simple breathing exercises, using a meditation app, or watching a guided relaxation video.

Set Boundaries

There is nothing wrong with rejecting invitations or demands that appear daunting. Do things that are safe and comfortable to you. In case visiting social media makes one feel compared or lonely, pause using the social media over the holidays.

Plan Ahead for Emotional Triggers

In case you are aware that some days will be particularly tough, such as Christmas Eve or New Year Eve, you can make plans. Book something that will help you relax, such as a comfort meal, a movie marathon, or a phone call with a friend. Planning helps to relieve anxiety and also to have something to look forward to.