How to cope on your own this Christmas

There are plenty of ways of avoiding a lonely Christmas

It may be the happiest time of year for many, but Christmas can be the most depressing for those who have nobody or for those who find themselves on their own.

This year, in particular, with Christmas plans being cancelled due to positive Covid tests there are many more of us who will only have the television for company.

We have put together some suggestions to help you cope on your own:

Make a plan 

If you know you’ll be alone this Christmas then plan your days.

Perhaps work out what you’re going to watch on the television, what meal you’re going to be cooking, or what time you’re going to go out for a walk. A more structured day will make you feel less lonely.

Plan ahead for Christmas Day in particular so it can be as special as you can make it.

Keep in touch with loved ones virtually or over the phone

If you haven’t embraced technology yet then now is the time to do so. Apps such as Skype, FaceTime and Zoom mean you can connect with your loved ones using a smartphone, tablet or computer. All you need to do is download the programme, sign up and get it installed.

Seeing or speaking to someone virtually may not be a substitute for being together in person but it is the next best thing and you will not feel so alone. Why not arrange to eat your Christmas dinner together while you chat?

Help Others

Volunteering your time to help others is always a good thing and especially helpful over the Christmas period. It can also be a great way of easing feelings of loneliness.

If you know of a neighbour perhaps who is on their own this Christmas then parcel up a meal or present for them too and leave it on their doorstep. You can always have a socially distanced chat over the fence.

There may be a local community kitchen where you can help out or a local Crisis hub who provide meals for homeless people. Age UK run a befriending service over the phone which you could commit to over the festive period.

Keep Active and Stay Warm

Exercise of all sorts helps to keep us focussed and happy.

Just a simple walk can help to warm us up and will make us feel calmer and clear our heads. Christmas Day in particular is a lovely day to walk as it can be more peaceful and so help us to reconnect with nature too.

Enjoy the time to yourself

If you’re worried of the thought of spending Christmas on your own this year it can be helpful to try to make the most of time with yourself by spending it positively doing things that you enjoy, and that make you happy.

Although relationships with friends and family are important, the most important relationship we have is with ourselves. So be kind to yourself this Christmas.