Looking forward to Christmas? Sadly not everyone does.
For some people it can be a time of stress, loneliness, anxiety and isolation.
However, help is at hand. There are things you can do to make the festive period feel less daunting. There are also services and people offering support.
Loneliness at Christmas
Anyone of any age can be affected by loneliness. You do not have to be on your own all the time to feel lonely.
Feelings of loneliness can feel more intense during the festive season. You might be alone on Christmas for different reasons, such as the death of a loved one, living far from relatives or because of social isolation.
If you have social anxiety disorder (SAD) and don’t have close relationships with family or friends, Christmas can be particularly hard.
Tips for coping with loneliness at Christmas
- Look out for community events near you. If you’re in hospital or a care home, see what activities are running over Christmas that you can join.
- If you can’t be with the people you want to see, you could arrange a phone or video call to catch up with them on Christmas day.
- Let people know if you’re struggling. It can help to talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling. If you feel anxious about reaching out, remember that other people who are alone on Christmas may feel isolated, lonely and nervous about calling on you too.
- Think about how you’d like to spend your time over Christmas so you can plan ahead. Think about all the things you enjoy doing – or never usually have time to do. There may be some Christmas specials on TV, or a film or boxset, you’ve been meaning to watch.
Our loneliness page has more advice, including information on how to seek further support, when to speak to a GP and what to do if you or someone you know needs immediate help.
Stress at Christmas
It’s easy to feel pressured to have the perfect Christmas.
TV adverts, social media and even friends and family can all set unrealistic expectations – and make you feel like a failure if you don’t achieve them.
The pressures of work, home life and the current cost of living crisis can leave you feeling overwhelmed.
Tips for coping with stress at Christmas
Money
It can be tough to cope with the financial pressures of Christmas, especially if you’re already struggling with money.
Make a list, plan and budget to help things feel more manageable. Look for free and low-cost items on sites such as Freecycle.
It can be hard to talk about money, but being honest with others can help – perhaps they are worried too. You may be able to agree ways to make Christmas plans free or low cost.
Support and advice is also available from organisations in Greater Manchester.
Try to avoid comparisons
Don’t compare yourself to others on social media or TV adverts. These aren’t realistic.
Adverts and social media are trying to sell us something. That could be the latest “must-have” gift or party food, or the idea of the perfect lifestyle.
Why not take a break from social media? Instead, take time to appreciate and enjoy your “version” of Christmas and your traditions.
Don’t try to please everyone
It’s impossible to make Christmas just right for everyone. Concentrate on what works for you and your loved ones and don’t spread yourself too thin.
Children
There’s lots of simple activities and free events to keep the kids amused at Christmas.
Do a quick search online for things like simple craft activities and games, local Christmas lights switch-ons and free community events.
When it comes to gifts, they don’t have to be expensive to bring joy. How many of us remember children playing with the box rather than the carefully-chosen present?
Spend time outdoors
Perhaps take a Boxing Day walk with family and friends to blow away any Christmas cobwebs. It will also boost your your exposure to Vitamin D.
Take time out
Be kind to yourself and do something just for you. That could be going for a walk, reading a magazine, watching your favourite TV show or watching “cat reels” on social media. Whatever helps you to relax.
Visit our stress less page for tips on reducing stress at any time of the year, services and support.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to meet other people, help others and give back to your community.
But it is also good for you personally, and has many benefits for your physical and mental health! This includes combating loneliness.
Christmas is a time of year when many people think about volunteering.
Some of the Christmas volunteering roles with charities – like helping out at homeless shelters – fill up quickly so you need to plan in advance. You could search online or keep an eye out for other local opportunities.
Remember, volunteering is great to do at any time of the year – not just at Christmas. Why not put volunteering at the top of your New Year’s resolutions? Our volunteering page has lots of inspiration.
Make Monday Matter
Get involved with our #MakeMondayMatter movement by setting an intention to make small changes on Mondays that could make a big difference to your wellbeing.
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