Coping with Loneliness During the Holiday Season: A Psychologist's Guide

By Melanie Cormack, Registered Psychologist

As the Christmas season is upon us it’s time to talk about the difficulties that many people face at this time.

Christmas is often portrayed as a time of joy, warmth, and togetherness. However, for many people, it can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation. It is important to understand that Christmas can be a very difficult time for a lot of people.

I am hoping to share some insight and ideas to help you through:

Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings:

The first step in coping with loneliness is acknowledging and accepting your emotions. It's crucial to recognize that it's okay to feel lonely, especially during a time that emphasises social connectedness. Validating your emotions allows you to process them in a healthy way, rather than suppressing or denying them.

Engage in Self-Compassion:

Practicing self-compassion is vital when experiencing feelings of loneliness. Be kind to yourself and recognize that your emotions are valid. Treat yourself with the same empathy and understanding that you would offer to a friend in a similar situation. Self-care activities such as mindfulness, meditation, or engaging in hobbies can help foster a sense of self-compassion and provide comfort during this time.

Create Meaningful Connections where you can:

If physical distance from loved ones is the problem consider reaching out to friends, family, or acquaintances through video calls, phone calls, or social media. Or if relationships have always been difficult and you don’t want to be alone during this time, consider volunteering. There are many community organisations that ask for help every year and giving your time feels good, builds connections and new traditions.

Here’s an idea to get you started.

Establish New Traditions:

Consider establishing new traditions that align with your current circumstances. This could involve participating in virtual holiday gatherings, hosting a small gathering with close friends, or creating personalised rituals that bring you joy and comfort. Embracing these new traditions can help create a sense of purpose and anticipation during the holiday season.

Seek Professional Support:

If feelings of loneliness persist and begin to significantly impact your well-being, seeking professional support from a therapist or counsellor can provide valuable guidance and coping strategies. A mental health professional will assist you in navigating through your emotions in a healthy and constructive manner.

Remember, you are not alone in feeling lonely during the holiday season. It's essential to prioritise your emotional well-being and practice self-compassion as you navigate through this challenging time. By acknowledging your feelings, fostering connections where you can, and seeking support when needed, you can find solace during the holiday seasons.