The Loneliest Time of the Year

Christmas can be one of the most joyful times of the year. But for some, it can be the loneliest.

It's easy to overlook those outside of our inner circle of family and friends as we gather together for the holidays. We can fall into the trap of assuming everybody has a place to go. It may not even cross our minds if the neighbor who moved in across the hall last month or hard working new co-worker has family or friends nearby while we are rushing through the chaos of the season.

When we go about our holiday preps, our minds naturally gravitate to those in our tribe.

Over two million elderly in UK and US will spend Christmas alone. Some people will choose to be alone on Christmas day because they are burgeoned by the empty feeling from the loss of their life partner, and are unable to get into the holiday spirit. But that does not make the day any easier.

But Christmas loneliness doesn't just affect our elders. Millennials are twice as likely to experience loneliness during the season, according to a report by MIND.

The loneliness epidemic is as deadly as smoking and obesity and is only growing. The additional stress and health issues the chronically lonely are facing is staggering, considering we are social beings and need to be together.

In an increasingly "connected" world, we seem to be moving toward a "disconnected" life.

Everyone falls into darkness at some point.

When some do, they can withdraw and become silent. It is the body’s natural instinct to “hide” when it is injured, and loneliness and depression are the worst kinds of injuries- they are wounds to the soul.

If you see somebody withdrawing, this may be a sign of inner hurt. And asking them will usually get you a “fine” response with a smile. I will admit there is a fine line when it comes to insisting someone accompany you in festivities. Some people need that push because they may feel like it’s an imposition. But never put someone into a position where they are uncomfortable.

Be there, be open, and be welcoming. That is the most important thing you can do. Just knowing that you are not alone and there is someone who cares makes a big difference.

Check on the elderly in your neighborhood, bring a Christmas card as an opener for a friendly discussion. Let the recently divorced coworker know she can drop in on your casual get together. Drop a friendly email to make your deployed friend smile.

Pick up your phone and call the person who is on your mind. Being there to talk to is a gift you can give that will be treasured long after the decorations have been put away.

Brighten someone’s Christmas this year by letting them know they are not alone.

Please, if you are lonely, reach out to someone. There are support groups, talk with your doctor. And trust me- the more the merrier! Ask around for parites and get togethers, people want you to join :)