How To Stay Without Family On Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, many of us experience stronger emotions. However, if circumstances prevent us from spending time with family, friends, or taking regular vacations, those extra feelings may spiral down to a place we don't want to go. Learn our best tips to stay happy without family this Christmas.

When we can't spend time with the people we hold closest to us on holidays like Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year's Eve, it's reasonable to feel disappointed and even unhappy. Even if those emotions are normal and to be expected, it's critical to develop coping mechanisms in order to enjoy the season to the fullest. We asked professionals for their top tips for feeling good and staying upbeat throughout the holidays. Follow our best tips to fight sadness this Christmas.

Send thoughtful, pleasant presents or cards, and have them opened online

You and your favorite people can benefit from receiving small, thoughtful gifts and handmade notes to make you feel loved and appreciated. Plan phone conversations or gatherings where you may virtually sing songs, share amusing tales from the past, and stay in touch if money is scarce.

According to psychologist Yvonne Thomas, PhD, having one's support system to lean on and give emotional support to can be highly comfortable and grounding for each others when people may be facing elevated levels of worry, stress, helplessness, sadness, loneliness, and/or grief. "You can make fresh, optimistic memories of your holidays that can be quite empowering."

Avoid using social media

Seeing a social media feed crammed with Christmas-themed pictures and content families might make people feel lonely and compare themselves to others who aren't spending the holiday season alone. Why not use the opportunity to undergo a digital detox if you're alone? This Christmas, perform a straightforward act of self-care that can improve your mental health. Try our tips to have a happy healthy Christmas while you are lonely.

Go for a long walk

Take advantage of the quiet streets by going on a lengthy walk; dress warmly, get a hot beverage, and wander aimlessly through your favourite neighbourhood. Inhaling the clean, crisp air will help you clear your head and renew your mind, whether you're in the remote corners of the countryside or in and around your hometown.

Treat Yourself

Christmas may still be happy and bright on your own. Why not give yourself a little treat if you need a little pick-me-up? Do not feel bad about indulging yourself in items that bring you delight, whether it be a new winter coat or a book you've been dying to read.

Set a date for the annual family toast

A Zoom dinner can be a difficult long shot if you have aunts and uncles, siblings with children, double-digit cousins, and parents who aren't big on technology. Grandma won't know how to turn herself on silent, and someone's internet is going to go bonkers.

Instead, Hakim advises letting go with an off-screen toast of wine, coffee, tea, or hot cocoa to relieve the pressure. Excellent if you can master video conferencing. If not, invite everyone to share a group chat selfie of their Christmas décor and drink of choice. You'll smile looking at the pictures, which should help you get through the day.

Send everyone on your list a bottle of champagne (or another beverage of your choosing) for extra points.

Volunteer

Look locally to feel connected to people and spread cheer if states or oceans stand between you and your loved ones.

According to industrial-organizational psychologist Amy Cooper Hakim, PhD, "You might give food to an old individual who may not be able to get to the shop." "Or you could phone a lonely person who wants some company. To send to nursing homes or hospitals, you might even create Christmas or "thinking of you" cards." Even if you can't be with your loved ones, giving back in this way lifts your spirits.