Combatting loneliness at Christmas
For many people the Christmas and New Year period is something to look forward to but we know that for others it can be a stressful or lonely time, where our normal routines are temporarily disrupted and we may feel isolated and not as full of festive cheer as we might hope for.
We see images and adverts of people surrounded by family and friends, but this is not the reality for everybody. For some of us, we may feel excluded if the festivals, holidays and religious events we celebrate don't get the same attention as Christmas.
We may be looking forward to a quiet time, to get things done, or just to watch a favourite tv programme in peace, to go for a quiet walk with less traffic around. Or we may wish we had more contacts and people to be with than we currently do. Some people may be surrounded by family groups but still feel lonely. Everyone is different.
Loneliness and isolation may or may not affect you, or you may be concerned about others and wonder how you might be able to support them.
Remember you’re not alone if you are feeling lonely or worrying about the festive period. Around three million people in England have said that they have often felt lonely in the last two years. We know that for some people, living with health conditions like epilepsy can also add to feeling isolated.
Ways to cope with loneliness
We have information on our website about managing isolation and loneliness and details of organisations that can help. The charity MIND has information and advice about why Christmas can be a hard time for some people.
Below are a few ways of dealing with loneliness and some simple ideas to think about, for now and in the new year. Some may be helpful for you:
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Try talking to someone who you feel comfortable with, such as a family member, a friend, your carer, or GP. Some charities, like Age UK, run befriending services. Join an online community, like Side by Side. Or connect with Epilepsy Society on social media. See below for how to do this.
- Think of ways to become more at ease in your own company. Some people find it helps to have background noise, such as tv, radio or a podcast. Others find hobbies and interests can be all absorbing and enjoyable. Consider trying something new.
- Find out what may be available in your area. There may be plenty going on over the holiday period which you may like to try. For example, churches will have services for all to attend and there may be other free events in your local community. Some organisations like Crisis or British Red Cross are always looking for volunteers.
- Keep active as much as you can – it can help your wellbeing. If you can’t get out for a walk, check out Bill Bailey’s SOFA workout here.
- Think of how you might be able to help or support someone else. It could be inviting a friend for a coffee or simply calling someone for a chat.
Contact our Helpline
If you are affected by epilepsy and need support at this time, or any time of the year, our Helpline is there for you. It’s confidential, providing information and emotional support.
Our Helpline will be open until 4pm on 24th and 31st December and closed for the bank/public holidays. More details about our Helpline and how to connect with us by phone, live chat or email can be found here
If you need to talk to someone when our Helpline is closed you can call the Samaritans on 116 123. The Samaritans also offer tips if you’re feeling lonely and how to recognise and support someone who may be lonely . Or you might like to join in with online conversations on our Facebook page, X page or our Instagram page.