It’s surprising how many people dread the festive period, especially if you live alone, have no family or are living away from family or friends. People often feel overwhelmed at Christmas because so much emphasis is placed on surrounding themselves with loved ones and having a good time. However, that’s not always possible and the Christmas hype can often cause people to feel lonely. Take a look at these suggestions to make sure you do not feel alone or isolated this Christmas and help to boost your mental health.
Volunteer
Deciding to volunteer over the festive period is a great idea if you are alone. You will get to meet other volunteers and will help other people have a good time as well. Volunteering is also a good way to meet new people, have fun and do something good for others, which will boost your self-esteem and overall mental wellbeing as well. There are so many establishments that are desperate for volunteers over the Christmas holidays, such as:
* Soup kitchens
* Hospitals
* Care homes
* Homeless shelters
* Drop-in centres
* Animal shelters
* Churches
* Women’s shelters
Celebrate online
Technology is so advanced now that no matter where you live in the world, you can still spend time with a loved one. Spending Christmas day with others can still happen, even if it’s done remotely. There are so many platforms available to connect with others online and group chats can even be set up on your mobile phone. Many people have stated that they’ve even eaten Christmas dinner before with family or friends that are in another country. There are also lots of social media groups that host Christmas day events for members that are alone over the festive period. It’s a great way to meet new people, have some fun and avoid feeling so isolated over the Christmas period.
Host an ‘Orphan Christmas’
The term ‘Orphan Christmas’ is often used to describe a group of people coming together that are also alone and usually involves someone hosting a lunch, a party or even an overnight get-together with others that would otherwise be spending the festive period alone. If hosting an ‘Orphan Christmas’ or going to an ‘Orphan Christmas’ event is something that appeals to you, now would be a good time to go onto social media and join some groups to find out what might be going on in your local area. Don’t be afraid to make a post yourself announcing you are interested in hosting an ‘Orphan Christmas.’ You might be surprised how many others are in the same position as you and would love to make new friends and avoid loneliness themselves over the festive period.
These tips can help you avoid feeling lonely this Christmas, and don’t forget to see what NHS discount codes and vouchers are available to you before you make purchases for the festive season. Try not to let finances burden you over the Christmas period either.
