As the holiday season unfolds, it highlights a less talked about aspect this time of year brings: loneliness.
For many, the festive period – often idealised as a time of togetherness and celebration – can be challenging, and this feeling of solitude and isolation can touch anyone, whether you’re physically alone or in a crowd.
For people managing mental health issues, addiction, or eating disorders, these feelings can be even more intense. The season’s merriment can sometimes mask the deeper struggles that people face, making it important to acknowledge and address this aspect of the Christmas break.
Understanding Loneliness in Context
The holiday season often magnifies feelings of loneliness and isolation. The idealised image of crackling fires and family togetherness can starkly contrast the reality of being or feeling alone, and the festive atmosphere, which supposedly celebrates togetherness, can inadvertently deepen the sense of being disconnected.
For people recovering from mental health challenges or addiction, these feelings can be particularly acute. The societal pressures of the season and participating in social events can mean confronting past traumas, which, in turn, can trigger complex emotions. Additionally, the increased emphasis on joy and celebration may make those with depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders feel further alienated. Their experiences are often at odds with the pervasive holiday narrative, adding more layers to their feelings of solitude.
In this context, understanding and empathy become the bedrock in supporting and acknowledging this.
Special Considerations for Mental Health and Addiction
Navigating the holiday season requires special attention for those managing mental health and addiction challenges. One study found that an average of fifty-five per cent of people felt lonely around Christmas. Seventy-five per cent of Gen Z were the most likely age group to feel this way, and seventy-six per cent of the LGBTQ+ community also shared these feelings. Worryingly, twenty-one per cent of people surveyed said they misused substances during the holidays.[1]
The festive period can also be a time of heightened stress and potential relapse triggers. It’s an occasion where societal norms and traditions, such as increased alcohol consumption and an abundance of food, can inadvertently impact those in recovery or with specific mental health concerns.[2] You can help to combat difficult situations by:
- Recognising Triggers: Holidays can bring numerous triggers for addiction and eating disorders, so be aware of situations that might provoke unhealthy behaviours.
- Strategies for Avoiding Substances: If substance use is a concern, it’s essential to plan in advance how to handle situations where they are likely to be present. This might include bringing non-alcoholic beverages to parties or taking a sober companion.
- Managing Eating Disorder Triggers: For those with eating disorders, holiday meals can be stressful. Prioritising health by setting boundaries and having a support plan ready, like checking in with a therapist or support group can offer a safety net if needed.
- Creating a Supportive Environment: Surrounding yourself with people who understand and support your journey and communicating your needs and boundaries to everyone can help you navigate the season more easily.
Strategies for Coping with Loneliness
When dealing with loneliness during the holiday season, compassion starts at home, and there are ways to move through these feelings and find comfort. It can be helpful to find something that resonates with you, so while this isn’t exhaustive, here are some strategies to help you cope with loneliness during the holidays:
Embrace Loneliness: It’s important to acknowledge and embrace feelings of loneliness. Recognising this emotion as a natural response rather than something to be glossed over and ignored can be the first step towards coping with it.
Reject Idealised Portrayals: The media representation of the Christmas holidays often paints an unrealistic perfect picture. Detaching from these idealisms and doing things the way you want to is key when embracing your holiday experience. So, break the mould and create a holiday that really works for you.
Create a Proactive Plan: Planning ahead can be a powerful tool in managing loneliness. This could involve joining a club, learning a new skill, planning for the coming year, or engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfilment.
Reach Out: Sometimes, the best way to counter loneliness is to connect with others. Whether it’s friends, family, or support groups, reaching out can provide comfort and a sense of belonging. You don’t have to fly across the world to be with the ones you love – with the internet and apps, connection is just a click away.
Manage Your Expectations: Managing expectations and accepting that the holidays might not be picture-perfect can also alleviate the pressure to feel a certain way. Accepting that it’s okay for the holiday season to be just another time of the year can actually be quite liberating.
Creating New Traditions and Finding Community
The holiday season is an opportune time to redefine what joy and celebration mean to you, particularly if you’re dealing with feelings of loneliness. Some ways to create new traditions and build community connections could include:
- Redefining Holiday Expectations: Remember, creating your own version of the holiday season that aligns with your well-being is perfectly fine. Choose what feels right for you, whether it’s a quiet evening with a good book or a small gathering with close friends.
- Volunteering and Community Engagement: Participating in community activities or volunteering can be a fulfilling way to connect with others and combat loneliness. Not only does it offer a sense of purpose, but it also allows you to be part of something larger than yourself and has proven mental health benefits.[3]
- Building a Chosen Family: Holidays don’t always have to be about biological family. You can spend time with people who are your chosen family and who will understand and support you.
Reach Out for Compassionate Support
Feeling lonely during the holidays can be a challenging experience, especially when dealing with mental health issues or addiction recovery.
At Assured Healthcare and Wellness, we understand these unique struggles and are here to offer support. Our team of experienced mental health nurses provides personalised care that supports your journey and helps you navigate the complexities of the season. Contact us to discover the comfort and understanding that comes with our dedicated, at-home care services.
Sources:
