"I get a lot of calls for that topic at this time of year. Sadly, whichever way you cut the demographic mustard-men, women, younger, older, LGBTQ, BAME/BIPOC, neurodivergent, disabled-more and more people report feeling lonely some or most of the time. Sadly, those feelings can be compounded by Christmas, making the festive period difficult for many, for a variety of reasons. The solution lies in being more than a little self-indulgent. It's a call to be selfish, but with good reason."
"We all know the advice; we all understand the remedies: get out more, reinvigorate old relationships, try to build new ones, join an interest or hobby group, learn to be happy with your own company, and so on. As practical as that all is, the holidays can wipe most of those options off the board. So, what do I mean by being self-indulgent?"
People across demographics increasingly report feeling lonely, and the Christmas period can intensify isolation, making the holidays difficult for many. Practical remedies such as socialising, renewing relationships, joining groups, and learning to enjoy one's own company may be unavailable or unrealistic during the holidays. A constructive response is to name and acknowledge loneliness, admit it aloud, and prioritise activities that please oneself. Challenging unhelpful, limiting beliefs and permitting deliberate self-indulgence or pampering can provide comfort. Small acts of kindness toward others can also lift mood, but looking after personal wellbeing is essential when feeling isolated.
Read at Psychology Today
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