Anyone else lonely this Christmas

Dear Ceejayjay,

I do not have a single engagement in my diary either! I am deeply horrified to hear this. I have mental health issues too where socialising for me is hugely triggering. Yes me neither no NYE parties but I would like so much to wear something glittery! And get out their...How do I cope I do not think I just do! But no matter even when I am not focussing on it, it still does not take the hurt and pain away, does it?

Life hurts me because I have been erased from it! So I suddenly thought coming together with like minded females is making the difference. To just see a smile, to giggle and to hear laughter is a Christmas present in itself.

Small family too and confess I am always relieved when it’s all over. There, I have said it.

Ceejayjay and MJ - don’t let Xmas day be the main focus, but I understand. I have not been a fan of Xmas, since my divorce. It’s all so complicated especially for the AC and GC - making days for me and days for their Father and trying to please everyone. But it is what it is.
Estrangement can happen to anyone - I know I dodged the bulletin a couple of times.
Yes, join some groups or why not volunteer at the Salvation Army to help with serving food etc on Xmas Day? But whatever you’re doing , I hope you find peace and love. Merry Xmas 🎅

I only have a small family so find the run up to Christmas awful. I usually see it as a break, and ignore the media focusing on families. This year may be different though for various reasons.

Dear Gransnet,

I am a new member here, yes in a simpler position. I am super positive, friendly and a happy female but I have had far too many Christmas holidays alone, it is time for me to reach out and not be ashamed of saying I am alone once again this festive season. I now need to be making my own memories.

I am estranged from my birth family, immediate family and Grandchildren. I thought rather than sit alone, eat alone and walk alone are there anyone in the same position as me that feels the same? If so please do get in touch. It would be nice to hear from you.

Kindest regards,

MJ.

Yes ceejayjay being on your own at Christmas can feel lonely. Also working from home can feel as though you are isolated from your colleagues. Get some nice food in, listen to some lovely music watch a film, do whatever makes you feel comfortable. Perhaps pop into a local church to hear the Christmas carols (you don't have to be religious to do this). If you like this type of music it may feel uplifting and there will also be an opportunity to talk to other people. Whatever you decide I wish you peace and joy at this time of Year.

I second what nanny8 has said please don’t let your mental health dominate your life as I know it can. Talk to people tell them how you feel reach out if you don’t you will miss out on much needed company. Even in the cold weather wrap up and take yourself out if physically able a good walk lifts your spirits.

Oh look after yourself ceejay, it is horrible being lonely. Next year vow to join something, anything that takes your fancy be it U3A, a local social group , volunteering. Make yourself even if you don’t feel like it. Meanwhile can you ring someone you know, family or not and just tell them you are feeling isolated - most people will at least chat for a while?