So, where to start, loneliness at christmas is a real issue and it's something that can go unnoticed as the majority of folks are enjoying team meals, family gatherings, social nights out, at this time there will always be some folks who are isolated, perhaps through age, perhaps through social awkwardness, perhaps for family disconnection or other reasons.
Though loneliness can affect all people, it has been suggested from studies that 1 in 3 25-34 year old men feel lonely during the christmas period. Unmarried and Widowers are affected most and job security and attending christmas parties seem to be the main worries manifesting. Research by the Priory Group seems to suggest that 25-34 year old males face loneliness, anxiety, other pressures during this busiest time of the year.
Loneliness and Worry can become overwhelming for all folks at Christmas and peoples main concerns seem to be Christmas parties, Finances, Work pressure, Worrying about the upcoming new year, Spending time with families.
However if we have time there are some things that the rest of us can do at Christmas in trying to help alleviate loneliness and worry for those that experience that at this time of year ( Invite someone to a festive meal ( some people need an alternative to their own family ) , Invite someone on a winter walk , Encourage a friend to attend a festive gathering ( some people will go out of their way to avoid cultural social events ) ). However we need to be sensitive in that we must not force people to jolly up, understanding them when engaging with them. This Huffington Post article is very good ( and has a section on how to improve mental health at christmas ) and the YouTube video is something to meditate on …………..
Wishing you the best of the season and encouraging people to think outside their own bubbles this christmas.
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