The holiday season can be especially difficult if you’re feeling lonely because it is a time of year that emphasizes togetherness and celebration. Finding healthy ways to cope during this time is important because it helps ease feelings of isolation and allows you to stay connected
Regardless of the circumstances that may have created your solitude, it can be difficult to be alone during the holidays. Feeling sad, frustrated, anxious or angry are typical reactions. Multiple resources are available to help you understand your emotions and give yourself the time and space to feel them.
Places to turn include:
A trusted friend or family member, who can listen and provide comfort.
Your employee assistance program (EAP) or member assistance program (MAP), which is likely to offer round-the-clock support by phone and/or online.
The Crisis Text Line, offering free, 24/7 support to anyone, in any type of crisis, available in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Ireland. Text HOME to 741741.
The Veterans Crisis Line, a free, confidential resource that connects a trained responder with a veteran, even if they are not registered with the VA or enrolled in VA healthcare, 365 days of the year. Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.
The USA’s National Suicide Prevention Hotline provides free and confidential support for people in distress, 24 hours a day by dialing 988.
The Meditation Toolkit provides resources, tips and guided practices you can use to re-center and find peace.
The Loneliness Toolkit has information, resources and ways to build connections.
If you or someone you care about are in an immediate mental health crisis, please call 911 for assistance.