Loneliness - An unpleasant feeling in which a person feels a strong sense of emptiness and solitude resulting from inadequate levels of social relationships.
The holiday season is generally thought of as a time of joy and love, but for many people, it’s a time of loneliness. Some people live far from family and miss seeing their loved ones this time of year; others dread going to holiday parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations without a partner and end up staying home.
For those who feel lonely during the holidays, this time of year can be a time of additional stress. If you’re experiencing loneliness that causes you stress during the holiday season, the following suggestions can help.
First, it’s important to be good to yourself. Taking time to do things that will enhance your self-esteem or at least give you a good dose of fun will not only take your focus off of feeling alone, but it can lift your spirits as well.
One way to control your feelings of lack is to cultivate feelings of gratitude for what you already have; it’s hard to focus on both at once. If you’re feeling a lack of love in your life, make a concerted effort to focus on the love that you do have–from friends, family, neighbors, and even pets. You can also focus on things you really value in your life, like your work, the hobbies you have, or even your potential.
Another way to feel less lonely during the holidays is to donate your time to a cause you believe in. Helping others who are less fortunate than you can fill you with feelings of love and pride, and even connect you with others who share your passion. You’ll be part of something larger than yourself, and you’ll be immersing yourself in the true spirit of the holiday season.
Although having friends won’t make you feel less lonely, you will be less alone. So it is important to make new friends or be with friends who make our lives a little less lonely and a lot more rewarding. Making time for friends, truly listening when your friends talk, and being there for them are all ways to build supportive friendships.
If more people could replace emptiness and solitude with love and gratitude, the world begins to feel a little less lonelier.
