Whilst Christmas is a time for celebrations, it can also be a tough time of the year for many people. Here are a few tips on how to combat loneliness at Christmas.
Whilst Christmas is a time for celebrations, it can also be a tough time of the year for many people. Loneliness is often associated with older people, but a survey from the charity Mind in 2017 showed that at 45%, 18–24-year-olds are the age group most likely to say they feel embarrassed to admit that they’re lonely at Christmas.
Here are a few tips on how to combat loneliness at Christmas:
- Reach out to someone – this goes both ways; if you’re feeling lonely you can reach out to a friend, and if you think a friend may be lonely you can reach out to them. A conversation can go a long way, whether it’s face to face, over the phone or in messages.
- Make plans with yourself – by planning your day(s), you can avoid empty spaces where your mind can wander. It can be as simple as going on a wintery walk, which is a great opportunity to clear the mind, experience the outdoors and meet some walkers along the way! The routine will help break up the day and keep your mind focussed on activities that you can look forward to.
- Do some research – if you’re spending the holidays somewhere that you’re not used to, research local events and gatherings so you can get involved with the community and get some festive cheer. There are lots of events you can engage with at the University, including a Santa Walk & Run and a Global Café.
- Make your own family – although it may seem like it, you are not alone! There are other students who are feeling the exact same way that you are; whether it’s not being able to go home for the holidays or simply not celebrating Christmas, you are not the only one who feels alone. Joining sports clubs, societies and student led services is an excellent way to meet people who are in the same boat as you, and through doing this you’ll be able to build connections and create a support network.
- Get creative – pick up a hobby to help occupy your mind give it the breathing space it needs to reject the feelings of loneliness and prevent them from turning into despair. It doesn’t have to be something festive! It could be baking, painting, reading, learning a new language or skill, anything that distracts your mind and brings you joy!
The Union Advice Team are available until Thursday 21st December (the last appointment on this day will be 4pm); outside of this you can also reach out to a variety of support systems, which can be found on Mind’s website.