We are made to believe the holiday season is the best time of the year, but for many of us, the holidays are tough. When everyone around you appears to be happy and enjoying the festivities, you may feel lonely, but if you remember these things when the loneliness sets in, it can be very soothing:
You are not alone
There a lot of people feeling the same way. They may not let on that they are feeling sad or lonely, but when they close the door to their apartment, late at night, they are. Sometimes, if you get a sense that someone you know or meet is feeling this way, reach out. Let them know that you understand how they feel
It’s okay to feel this way
The worst thing for someone who is experiencing a “loneliness attack” is to discount their feelings. Don’t judge yourself or say that you should be feeling differently. That will only make you feel worse. Have compassion for the “child” in you who is feeling alone.
Isolation won’t help
Be with people who care. Reach out to a friend who honors you and lets you be yourself. Although you may feel like you’re a “downer,” people want to be able to help, and they can, even if it’s just being in the same room and watching television with you.
This too shall pass
You will not always feel this way. If you don’t judge yourself, and accept your mood, it is more likely that these feelings will ease over time. The feelings linger when you resist what is going on.
Getting through rough times creates strength
Knowing that you can get through these uncomfortable moments enables you to “grow” your inner muscles of endurance and courage. It is during the most painful times that we learn the greatest lessons. Have faith. Everything happens for a reason, even if you don’t know what that is at the time.
