Loneliness During Holidays

Holidays are stereotypically considered a time of joy, fun, family gatherings, traditions, and relaxation. I think you can continue the list of associations. This stereotype of family-oriented holidays is formed from childhood and reinforced by movies and advertising. Against this background, when people remain alone during holidays, they begin to think something is wrong with them. Loneliness can cause feelings of sadness, loss, and even depression.

What if the Opportunity to be Alone has Long Been Lacking for a Full Rest?

In this article, let's think together and discuss why this happens and whether we need to do something about it.

Reasons Why People Are Lonely During Holidays

• Loved ones and friends are far away.
  
  
• Loss of loved ones. This causes grief and sadness, a desire to spend time alone to process one's feelings without forced smiles, and attempts to "enjoy life."
  
  
• Difficulty in establishing contact and maintaining relationships with other people.
  
  
• Desire to avoid additional expenses or discomfort due to lack of finances.
  
  
• Religious or cultural differences, customs that do not allow joining other people.
  
  
• Negative experiences associated with previous holidays can cause anxiety, fear, and unpleasant associations. A person may prefer to avoid holiday events or spend them alone to avoid repeating negative experiences.
  
  
• Shift work or rotational work, studies, or other obligations.
  
  
• Conscious choice—one may simply not feel the need to communicate with other people during holidays. This is a long-awaited time to rest, relax, and pursue one's hobbies.

Benefits of Holidays Alone

• Time for oneself, time to think and evaluate one's victories and defeats, goals and desires for the future. Consider what changes you want to make and what steps must be taken to achieve them.
  
  
• Complete freedom and independence in decision-making and planning your time. You can do what you like without restrictions or compromises. This is the time for self-care. You can pursue your hobbies, visit interesting places, travel, or simply enjoy quiet time alone. This is when you can fully devote yourself to your interests and needs.
  
  
• No need to fuss and prepare dishes, take care of guests, listen to criticism, clean up before and after. No need to meet someone's requirements or expectations, maintain useless conversations, complaints, or whining. No need to give and receive unnecessary gifts.
  
  
• When you're alone, you're completely on your own, and it doesn't matter what you're wearing to welcome the new year - in underwear or a suit, it doesn't matter how many dishes are on the table. The main thing is that they are your favorites.

We recommend practicing gratitude. Write a list of things you're grateful for in the past year. These can be small or big moments, achievements, or people who were there for and supported you. Write down each thing and try to feel gratitude and appreciation for it. This exercise will help you focus on the positive aspects of the past year and create a positive outlook for the future.

How Can a Man Cope with Loneliness During Holidays?

If loneliness during holidays is not your choice but a forced measure, it can cause negative thoughts and feelings.

It's important to understand that feeling lonely during holidays is a normal reaction. Don't be ashamed to acknowledge your emotions and allow yourself to experience them. Sympathize with yourself and decide whether you will do something about it or not. If you decide to act, here are a few suggestions.

1. You can create your own atmosphere. Try to spend the holiday unusually—organize a hike or a workout, buy a ticket and go on a holiday trip, or get acquainted with new places.
   
   
2. If you're looking for a company, consider and search for organizations and groups that hold holiday events. These could be sports clubs, volunteer organizations, or interest groups. You can also use dating websites or apps.
   
   
3. You can also take the initiative and gather all the singles together and throw your own party.
   
   
4. If you don't have a pet, it's the perfect time to get one, it will keep you from getting bored. If you have a pet that can be trained, teach it new commands.

If the feeling of loneliness during holidays becomes too heavy and prolonged - seek help from a psychologist. They will help you understand your emotions, teach effective strategies for dealing with loneliness, and offer support during this difficult period.