Don’t be lonely this season
This holiday season doesn’t need to be all doom and gloom, even if you are spending it alone. Being alone does not need to mean you are lonely.
The holiday season is always an exciting time of the year, but for some who cannot see their family or have family or friends to see, it can be rather lonely.
Benoni group facilitator and ToughLove SA board member Chantal Grotto gave some tips about how to handle depression when feeling lonely.
Feeling alone verse feeling lonely:
Alone: you can live alone, work alone and travel alone while feeling totally at peace with yourself.
Loneliness: you feel like the “odd one out” in social situations, and that feeling can lead you down an emotionally painful road. The effects of loneliness can make it harder for you to establish connections and close relationships with others, no matter how busy a function may be that you are attending.
• Avoiding loneliness while you’re retreating at home
You may find it easier to focus when you work or do things alone. This is one of the cases where there’s beauty in solitude.
On the other hand, it has its drawbacks like any other habit. When we spend too much time in isolation, our minds can sometimes wander down a rabbit hole of negative thinking.
Don’t fall into this trap. Reaching out is crucial.
Perceived social isolation can trigger a number of different health complications. The effects could range from depression and anxiety to poor immunity.
• Stay connected and plugged in
Several medical journals explain extreme loneliness can have a detrimental effect on your health. As we endure this crisis, we must stay connected to others while we’re at it.
Technology makes it easier to stay in touch with people without physically being present.
• Attend virtual social gatherings
Since we can’t go out and meet new people offline, why not get crafty with the way you meet them online? Along with the internet comes the benefit of online community. There are tons of communities for pretty much every walk of life. Many are available to the public for free.
If you are unsure of where to start – check for Facebook groups that align with your hobbies and interests.
• Volunteer virtually
Have you ever wanted to contribute to something that’s bigger than yourself? Now’s your chance to make that meaningful impact on society. There are many ways you can pay it forward without leaving the house. Helping others can take your mind off of loneliness and shift your focus toward the greater good.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support by:
• Contacting your local support group Toughlove SA Chantal Grotto 082 372 3039 and Matilde Dos Santos 082 052 2269
• Make the call – LifeLine 0861 322 322
• Call your local emergency services number 10111
• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 080 024 2436
• SADAG 0800 456 789
• Adcock Ingram Depression and Anxiety Helpline 0800 70 80 90
This holiday season doesn’t need to be all doom and gloom, even if you are spending it alone. Being alone does not need to mean that you are lonely! Someone is always there to help you.
Other simple ideas that could put you into a season of giving whilst being and others are as follows:
• Get in touch with your local soup kitchen and lend an extra hand for homeless people.
• Animal shelters and centres have an influx during this period and could always use a helping hand.
• Charitable organisations in your area always need help as they deliver presents to the underprivileged.
References used: Living with addicts – a world disorder
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