Not feeling it this Christmas?

Christmas is a wonderful time of year full of festive cheer, bringing families, friends and couples together

to celebrate joy and love. Were invited into Christmas markets full of indulgent foods and sweet treats,

along with the magical atmosphere provided by the twinkly lights and array of stalls. Beyond the

festivities Christmas time offers a chance to reflect on the year, whether that be our achievements,

highs or lows.

All sounds wonderful, right? What if this isn’t how you feel at Christmas? Feeling lonely at Christmas can

be especially difficult. For those without close connections the contrast can intensify those feelings of

isolation, sadness or longing for meaningful relationships. Loneliness during this time may come from a

previous loss, a distance between loved ones or a longing for connection.

It’s important to understand these feelings are valid and shared by many others during this season.

Finding ways to care for yourself during this time is vital to ease the weight of loneliness and create new

traditions and bring moments of comfort and connection.

- Connect with others: The festive season is an ideal time to nurture connections, either by

reaching out to a friend, joining community events, or simply sharing meaningful moments with

those around you. Volunteering with a charitable organisation can also bring a deep sense of

purpose and meaning, as giving back not only helps others but can also uplift your own spirits.

Community events, such as carol singing, festive markets, or group activities, offer opportunities

to meet new people and foster a sense of belonging. Checking your local area for events is a

great way to discover ways to connect, celebrate, and create meaningful memories during this

holiday season.

- Be aware of your feelings: Being aware of your feelings at Christmas is important because the

season can bring a mix of emotions—joy, excitement, nostalgia, or even sadness and stress. By

acknowledging how you feel, you give yourself permission to process emotions rather than

suppress them, which can prevent overwhelm. Self-awareness helps you identify your needs

and set boundaries, allowing you to navigate the holidays in a way that feels authentic and

manageable. It also fosters greater empathy for yourself and others, helping you respond with

kindness during moments of tension or vulnerability. Christmas can be a meaningful time, but

staying in tune with your emotions ensures that it aligns with what truly matters to you.

- Keep a routine: Maintaining structure in your routine during Christmas is important because it

helps balance the excitement and demands of the season with your well-being. A consistent

routine provides a sense of stability amidst the festive chaos, reducing stress and preventing

overwhelm. It ensures you prioritize self-care, such as eating well, staying active, and getting

enough rest, so you can fully enjoy the celebrations without feeling drained. Structure also helps

maintain focus on your personal goals and needs, allowing you to navigate the season with a

sense of control and balance.

- Do things you enjoy: Treat yourself to something you like. Buying yourself a gift can be a good

way make yourself feel good. Engaging in activities you enjoy can be a powerful way to boost

your mood and prioritise your wellbeing, especially during busy or challenging times. Treating

yourself to something you love—whether it’s a favourite hobby, a relaxing experience, or even

buying yourself a thoughtful gift—can reinforce self-worth and bring moments of happiness.

These small acts of kindness toward yourself help create positive emotions and a sense of self-

care, reminding you that your happiness matters. Taking time to indulge in what makes you feel

good can recharge your energy and uplift your spirit, creating a ripple effect of positivity in your

daily life.

- Use social media wisely:  Be mindful of how you interact with social media, especially during

times when it’s flooded with idealised images and holiday highlights. While it can be a great tool

for staying connected, it can also trigger comparisons, feelings of inadequacy and highten the

feelings of loneliness. Set boundaries around your usage—limit screen time, unfollow accounts

that don’t make you feel good, and prioritise content that uplifts or inspires you. Focus on

authentic connections by engaging with supportive communities or reaching out to loved ones.

Remember, social media is a curated highlight reel, and your worth isn’t defined by what you

see online. Use it in a way that supports your mental wellbeing and enriches your life. Also, post

the things you’re doing at Christmas, you never know this may spark conversations with people

who maybe in a similar situation to you.

- Go outside: Being in nature during the Christmas period is vital for mental well-being, as it

provides a refreshing escape from the often hectic indoor festivities. Fresh air and natural light

help boost mood by increasing serotonin levels, while gentle movement, like a walk, reduces

stress and anxiety. Spending time in nature encourages mindfulness, offering a chance to pause,

reflect, and appreciate the beauty of the season—whether it’s crisp winter air, sparkling frost, or

festive decorations. This connection with nature can help combat feelings of overwhelm or

loneliness, fostering a sense of calm and rejuvenation during the busy holiday period.

You can read my blog post on Dwell Devons website.

https://dwell-devon.co.uk/journal/lonely-this-christmas