5 Tips for Managing Loneliness During the Holidays
Category: Depression
Being alone during the holidays can be tough, but there are ways to feel better!
Topic Of Discussion
Loneliness can be tough at any time of year, but especially during the holiday season, when watching movies might make you feel like everyone has someone to spend the holidays with.
Unless your name is Kevin and you’re longing to be “home alone”, you might be looking for some tips to navigate loneliness during the holidays. Even Kevin gets there eventually…so just know, no matter how lonely you might feel, you’re not alone, and there are ways to feel better!
1. Celebrate your freedom
Being on your own during the holidays can actually come with some hidden perks. You get to decide what you eat, what you watch, and how you spend your time – no awkward family debates or packed schedules required. Want breakfast for dinner? Go for it. Feel like staying in pajamas all day? Totally valid. Try reframing this time as a chance to do the things that you enjoy, just because you can.
2. Get out of the house
Staying home can make loneliness feel louder, so a change of scenery can really help. Grab a coffee, take a walk through a decorated neighborhood, hit the gym, or wander around a bookstore or local shop. You don’t have to socialize heavily – just being around other humans can boost your mood and break up the day. Sometimes simply getting dressed and stepping outside is a win.
3. Focus on self-care
The holidays are a great excuse to be extra kind to yourself. That might mean getting enough sleep, eating foods that make you feel good, moving your body, or finally starting that show you’ve been meaning to watch. Self-care doesn’t have to be fancy or Instagram-worthy – it just has to help you feel a little more grounded and cared for.
4. Focus on others
One of the best ways to feel less lonely is to help someone else. Volunteering, checking in on a friend, sending a thoughtful text, or even doing something small like donating to a local charity can create a sense of connection. You might be surprised how much lighter you feel when you’re part of something bigger than your own thoughts.
5. Remember: you’re not the “only lonely!”
It can feel like everyone else is surrounded by family and friends, but that’s not the full picture. Plenty of people struggle with loneliness during the holidays – they just don’t always talk about it. You’re not broken, behind, or doing life “wrong.” You’re human, and this season can be hard. Reminding yourself of that can take some of the sting out of it.
Wrapping it up
If, as you build a support system, you’re interested in talking to a mental health professional, our experienced counselors at Tri-Star Counseling are ready with a funny, friendly, no-nonsense approach to providing you with encouragement and tools – we’d love to help!
