The holiday season is often seen as the most joyful time of the year. Everywhere you look, there are ads showing families laughing together, friends exchanging gifts, and couples sharing special moments. Social media is filled with posts about parties, decorations, and big family gatherings. While these images can be heartwarming, they can also be overwhelming for those who feel lonely or disconnected.
If you’re feeling lonely this holiday season, know that you’re not alone—and it’s okay to feel this way.
Did you know? In 2023, around a quarter (26%) of adults reported feeling lonely “often, always, or some of the time,” with 6% specifically stating they felt lonely “often or always.”
Why Loneliness Feels Harder During the Holidays
Loneliness can affect anyone, at any time of the year. But during the holidays, it may feel especially difficult. The season often comes with expectations of happiness and connection. When life doesn’t look like the holiday ads, it’s easy to feel like something is wrong.
You might be working long hours, far from family, or caring for a sick loved one. Maybe you’ve recently gone through a breakup, lost someone close, or moved to a new place. These are all valid reasons to feel lonely. The pressure to be “merry” can make these feelings even heavier.
It’s also worth remembering that loneliness isn’t always about being physically alone. You can feel lonely in a crowd or even at a family gathering if you feel unseen or misunderstood. Loneliness is about the quality of connection, not just the quantity of people around you.
Did you know? Google searches relating to loneliness on Christmas peaked over the holiday period. During the month of December 3600 people searched for “loneliness on Christmas” and more have looked for information on similar topics.
The Impact of Loneliness on Mental Health
Loneliness is more than an emotion—it can have real effects on your mental health. Over time, it can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and even depression. During the holidays, these emotions can feel magnified as the world around you seems focused on joy and celebration.
Social media can make things worse. Seeing others post about happy moments may lead to comparing your life to theirs, even though what’s online rarely tells the full story.
Loneliness can also create a cycle: the more disconnected you feel, the harder it may seem to reach out to others.
It’s important to remember that loneliness is a normal human experience. There’s no shame in feeling this way, even during the holidays. Everyone has moments of solitude or disconnection, and these moments don’t define your worth.
Instead of trying to “fix” loneliness, focus on what you can control. Prioritise your mental health and self-care. This might mean taking time to rest, journaling, or spending time in nature. Small acts of kindness—like volunteering or checking in with a neighbour—can also create a sense of connection.
If being alone feels isolating, try to reframe it. Solitude can be a chance to reflect, recharge, and even enjoy your own company.
Did you know? Around 60% of people experiencing chronic loneliness also experience mental distress, compared to 15% of those who are not chronically lonely.
Breaking the Stigma of Loneliness
Society often makes us feel like being alone is something to avoid. But solitude isn’t a failure—it’s simply part of life. Talking openly about loneliness helps break the stigma and reminds others they’re not alone in their feelings.
This holiday season, remember: it’s okay not to feel cheerful every moment. It’s okay to set boundaries, take care of yourself and give yourself the kindness you deserve.
LINKS AND FURTHER READING:
Register for free Anti-Stigma support, training and resources https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV74gLOVA4ClG5NrvvST0zfgAmhYKNBalhGM__T1tL29gv5A/viewform
First Steps: emotional health and mental wellbeing advice and support guide https://www.healthysurrey.org.uk/mental-wellbeing/self-help/advice-and-support-guide
Self-help, Crisis and Local Support Resources https://www.healthysurrey.org.uk/mental-wellbeing
References:
Public opinions and social trends, Great Britain – Office for National Statistics
Lonely at Christmas? You Are Not Alone Reveals Recent Data
Facts and Statistics | Campaign to End Loneliness
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