While people all over the country this week are making final preparations for Thursday’s Thanksgiving feast, we want to send a special shout out and some extra love to those that might be feeling isolated, anxious, or depressed. Holidays can bring up a lot of emotional baggage for many, and we want to remind you that you are not alone.
In 2017, AARP conducted a survey among adults 18 and over that explored social connections during the holidays. Many expressed feelings of joy and love, but 31% of respondents said they felt lonely during the holidays and 41% worried about a family member or friend feeling lonesome. We can only imagine that these numbers have escalated as our world continues to become more and more divided.
It can be tough navigating where you feel you fit into your community at times. It can also be challenging to show up authentically, especially when you feel “different” or not “part of the group.” Perhaps you are far away from your loved ones, are missing someone who is no longer with you, or have just had a really rough year.
Whatever the case may be, we wanted to reach out with this quick message and send some love your way! Below you’ll find some suggestions that might help lighten your spirit and get you through the holidays with greater ease.
Get Curious
Begin by thinking about what could make you happy this holiday season. Is it hosting Thanksgiving at your place? Reaching out to friends or family and seeing what they might be up to? Have you ever volunteered before? Soup Kitchens are always looking for assistance. What better way to practice gratitude than to help those less fortunate? What about dreaming up a new tradition? Adjust expectations. Perhaps this day can represent something completely different. Get creative!
Practice Self Care
This looks different for each individual. Perhaps you could take a walk in nature, read, take a long bath, sleep in, or get some exercise. Maybe reaching out to a loved one to talk might help, or maybe some time meditating in silence is best. Make a list of what you are grateful for. Listen to your heart and do what’s best for you at this moment. Put your oxygen mask on first before assisting others :)
Take Risks
Pick up the phone and have that difficult conversation. Invite yourself over to a friend’s house for the holiday. Ask for what you need. Try to practice more compassion and forgiveness, by seeing different perspectives. Participate in our 100K Masks Challenge and share this activity with your loved ones. It’s an incredible way to connect authentically with your community and get to know them more on a personal level. You will no longer feel so isolated, realizing that we all wear masks and share so many of the same insecurities.
We hope you found some of these ideas helpful and that you will try a couple this holiday season. Remember: get curious, practice self-care, and take risks. We’re rooting for you!