LONELINESS is a common and perhaps unexpected heavy feeling that pops up around the holidays. This one may come as a surprise because the holidays are a time when we’re surrounded by others and feel like we supposed to be enjoying the fun and festivities.

There’s a difference in being “alone” and feeling “lonely” though. Feeling lonely is about feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or out of place.

Common Causes of Loneliness

Maybe you’ve gone through a divorce.

Maybe you’ve lost a baby.

Maybe you’ve lost a loved one this year.

Maybe your marriage is teetering on the edge right now.

Maybe you are trying to find that person to share your life with and you just keep coming up empty handed.

Maybe you’ve fallen prey to the old comparison game where others just seem to have it better.

The Remedy

The remedy to loneliness is CONNECTION. That doesn’t just mean being surrounded by people but actually being with people who hear us, understand us, and care about us.

Go Connect

If you’re lacking these people in your life then search out a group that has common interests or a common belief system. Church groups or hobby groups are great places to connect. Car clubs, Mom’s groups, Celebrate Recovery groups.

Go Serve

One of the best ways to connect and ward off those lonely feelings is by giving to others. You may find that by serving you are able to connect with other servers and also gain new perspective on your own hurt. Greenhouse Ministries, Journey Home, and Boys and Girl’s Club are a few in addition to churches in our area.

Get Moving

Exercise, while it can be solitary or with a group, gets us reconnected with ourselves. It’s time away from the busyness of the world to reset, feel like you did something good for you, and to just think.

If you’re or someone you know is struggling with loneliness and want more ideas on how to cope and reconnect, please reach out. Counseling can be a great way to begin that process toward feeling better again. I’m here to help.