The holidays are a tough time for many individuals—especially those who live alone or don’t live near family. So, when you are feeling down, what can you do?
There are many ways to keep your spirits high, from planning events for yourself and friends to spending time doing what you love. Read on to learn all of the ways you can keep your spirits high this holiday season.
**If you are feeling lonely due to the death of a loved one, please read the specific article linked in this sentence on the topic.
1. Plan Something With a Friend
We know how hard it is to live away from family, but family isn’t the only people you can spend time with during the holidays. Chances are, you’ve got a friend or colleague who is feeling just as lonely as you.
Take the initiative and plan something that you both will enjoy. Whether that’s something simple like a themed coffee, to something as big as an ugly sweater party, the sky is the limit! Just plan what you feel like doing and invite others to come with.
2. Wear Festive Clothing
It might seem stupid, but wearing festive clothing can be a quick and easy way to lift your spirits. Whether that is fun scrubs if you’re headed to work, or just a themed sweater as you sit by the window at home, it’s something to look forward to!
If you don’t own anything themed, check out these Christmas sweaters and these holiday scrubs!
3. Spend Time Outside
We know those of you who live somewhere cold are already cringing, but hear us out. Not getting enough sunlight is a major cause of seasonal depressive disorder, and even if just your face gets some sun, it’s better than nothing!
We recommend bundling up and taking a walk on the days when there is at least some sun peeking through the clouds. If it’s not too cold, you could even sit in the park, and people watch, or feed the ducks, if it’s allowed. Just don’t feed them bread, as it’s bad for their stomachs. Instead, grab a can of fresh peas, drain them, and put them in a baggie. Toss them at the ducks one by one, and they’ll soon be your best friends!
4. Call Family
Sometimes, even a single phone call can go a long way! Thanks to programs like Zoom and FaceTime, you might even be able to see your loved ones as you talk on the phone, and individuals have reported that this has made them feel much better when they are lonely!
Do note that while Zoom will work on your phone or computer, we recommend using it on your computer. FaceTime works best (and easiest) on your mobile phone.
5. Join a Club or Group
We understand that those who don’t have family around might also be lacking in friends. If that is the case for you, then consider joining a group or club during the holiday season. Chances are, a nearby community center or gym will have some sort of group you can join, and if they don’t, check out groups like Meetup and Facebook Groups to see if there is anything in your area.
Just be cautious when meeting people online—always meet in a public group setting. And never, ever, send money to someone online.
6. Volunteer
Something about volunteering is just so fulfilling during the holiday season. Plus, it will introduce you to like-minded individuals who are also likely alone during the holidays and require companionship.
No matter your mobility levels, there is usually somewhere you can volunteer—either at a soup kitchen, where you can help serve dinner, or at a local church. You can also check your local community center; they might even be looking for someone to play Santa!
7. Do Something You Enjoy
Being alone often doesn’t feel so bad when you spend the time doing something you enjoy! There are so many activities for the solo senior on Christmas Day, from heading to the spa, baking cookies, or watching your favorite movie.
Of course, if you have a friend around, feel free to invite them as well, just know that your favorite activity can be comforting even if you are doing it alone!
8. Keep Moving
Studies have shown that inactivity can make loneliness and depression worse, so, whatever you do, don’t stop moving during the holiday season.
If you live somewhere warm, taking a walk daily can go a long way toward boosting your mental health. Those living in colder places have it a bit more difficult, though we suspect there is likely a gym nearby where you can swim or use a treadmill.
Just be careful not to overdo it. When in doubt, join a class or club to ensure you are exercising in a way that is safe and healthy for you.
9. Eat Healthy
Nothing is worse for your body when you are feeling down than loading it with junk food. Ensure you watch your diet and avoid eating too many sweets—because while they might taste good and give you a temporary high, the crash that comes after may make you feel worse than before.
We recommend loading your diet with all the fruits and veggies you can and cooking meals at home whenever possible. Of course, the occasional treat is okay, just make sure you are eating healthy the majority of the time. Remember, it’s okay to say no to holiday sweets!
Overall, we know the holidays are hard for so many individuals, and what works for one person may not work for another. We implore you to try everything on this list at least once, so you can find light even in the dark times. Remember, if you are in a mental crisis, there is no harm in asking for help—even if it means dialing 911.
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