How to Manage Loneliness During the Holidays
Are the holiday blues getting you down? You’re not alone. While the end-of-year season can be fun and exciting for some, many only find their struggles with loneliness exacerbated. The gloomy weather and surrounding festivities can make people feel emotionally or physically isolated, leading to the holidays feeling like the loneliest time of year. But, it’s important to remember that those feelings will not last forever, and there are many ways to combat loneliness during this season.
1. Reach Out to Friends and Family
Simple, but effective. Surrounding yourself with your loved ones is an easy way to keep your loneliness at bay. If you are struggling with physical isolation, checking in with friends and family can help bring you closer to them. Hosting (in-person or virtual) dinners, game nights, or movie watch-parties are great ways to socialize with your loved ones.
When dealing with emotional isolation, letting your network know how you are feeling can allow them to better support you during this time. Many can find themselves feeling isolated, even when surrounded by people. Reaching out to trusted individuals can help to relieve some of these feelings.
2. Join a Club or Organization
Are you missing people to share your hobbies with? Joining a club or organization can help you to connect with local enthusiasts on common ground. This is also the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill or discover a new passion.
3. Attend a Class or Workshop
If you’re looking to try something new and would like to build a skill before joining an organization, classes and workshops are great places to start. Work alongside fellow beginners in a low-pressure environment to foster potential new hobbies. This is also an opportunity to find similar-minded people to practice and share your progress with.
4. Volunteer with a Local Non-Profit
Giving back to your community is a great way to find fulfillment during the holiday season. There are hundreds of non-profit organizations that could need your help. Joining an in-person volunteer group gives you the opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, and help those in your community.
5. Attend Local Events
The holiday season is prime time for themed events. Whether that’s attending shows, festivals, or other events, you are sure to find members of your community surrounding you. You can choose to socialize, or just enjoy the crowd and occasion. Either way, putting yourself out there can help with feelings of physical isolation.
The holiday season can be difficult, but that doesn’t mean that loneliness is permanent. Finding ways to connect with loved ones and new friends can help you fight back against feelings of physical or emotional isolation. If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, Wellspring Counseling Center wants to help. Reach out to our main office for appointments, course information, and opportunities for support during this time.
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Find Wellspring Counseling Center at https://www.wccplano.org/ and reach us at 972-423-4506 ext. 155 with any questions.
Visit us in person at our location near Dallas, TX at 3160 East Spring Creek Parkway, Plano, TX, 75074.