Holidays and Loneliness

During this time of the year, we all experience various feelings and emotions.

Some of us feel happy, some pretend to be happy, and some are unhappy and lonely.

In the past two weeks, I’ve spoken to many people about their feelings regarding the holidays, and unfortunately, more than ever, people are not in the mood for celebrating. The reasons are too many to name, but here are a few: economic challenges, layoffs, job insecurity, and, most significantly, loneliness.

Loneliness doesn’t only mean being physically alone; for some, loneliness is feeling isolated in a room full of family, people, or at a party.

We’ve all experienced this loneliness at some point—I certainly have, numerous times.

I recall a specific event, a large Christmas party at a friend’s house filled with music, dancing, laughter, and people talking—a seemingly joyous occasion. However, at one point, I looked around and realized that in the room full of people I know and love, I felt lonely. All I wanted to do was leave.

Nevertheless, I stayed and listened to myself, attempting to understand why I was feeling this way, what thoughts were going through my head, and what I was experiencing in that specific moment.

Did I find a solution to this? NO.

However, I identified what I was feeling and experiencing at that moment. I could turn around and immerse myself in the happiness of the occasion. It’s not easy to pinpoint the exact reason for feeling lonely, but by listening to ourselves and truly hearing our inner thoughts, it becomes a little easier.

I’m also here to listen, and perhaps in the moment when you share your thoughts and feelings, you’ll discover what makes you feel lonely.