By yourself at Christmas this year? Tips on how to manage alone
Not having people around us can feel more difficult at Christmas when there are lots of images of families and friends together. It can be a really depressing time of year. in particular for those who suddenly find themselves on their own.
Here are a few suggestions to help you get through the festivities alone:
Make a plan
If you know you’ll be alone this Christmas then plan your days.
Perhaps work out what you’re going to watch on the television, what meal you’re going to be cooking, or what time you’re going to go out for a walk. A more structured day will make you feel less lonely.
Plan ahead for Christmas Day in particular so it can be as special as you can make it.
Keep in touch with loved ones virtually or over the phone
Apps such as Skype, FaceTime and Zoom mean you can connect with your loved ones using a smartphone, tablet or computer. All you need to do is download the programme, sign up and get it installed.
Seeing or speaking to someone virtually may not be a substitute for being together in person but it is the next best thing and you will not feel so alone. Why not arrange to eat your Christmas dinner together while you chat?
If you have no family or friends to chat with then try connecting with someone in a safe place online such as through the MIND online community.
Help Others
Volunteering your time to help others is always a good thing and especially helpful over the Christmas period. It can also be a great way of easing feelings of loneliness.
If you know of a neighbour perhaps who is on their own this Christmas then parcel up a meal or present for them too and leave it on their doorstep. You can always have a socially distanced chat over the fence.
There may be a local community kitchen where you can help out or a local Crisis hub who provide meals for homeless people. Age UK run a befriending service over the phone which you could commit to over the festive period.
Keep Active and Stay Warm
Exercise of all sorts helps to keep us focused and happy.
Just a simple walk can help to warm us up and will make us feel calmer and clear our heads. Christmas Day in particular is a lovely day to walk as it can be more peaceful and so help us to reconnect with nature too.
Enjoy the time to yourself
Do something to forget that it’s Christmas or distract yourself. For example, you could watch a film or read a book that’s set in the summer. Or you could try learning a new skill. The key is to make the most of time with yourself by spending it positively doing things that you enjoy, and that make you happy.
Although relationships with friends and family are important, the most important relationship we have is with ourselves. So be kind to yourself this Christmas.
Melina - Assistant Editor
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