When Christmas Becomes a Burden: Strategies Against Loneliness

With Christmas approaching, for many people it also marks a potentially critical rather than contemplative phase. The feeling of loneliness can occur especially during the holidays - and this perceived painful isolation increases, as many surveys show. But there are options and strategies against loneliness. Oliver Bayer, spokesperson for Rat auf Draht, cites the first step as "first allowing this feeling," also to explore possible triggers.

Expected Idyllic Scene Meets Reality

Loneliness is widespread, with one in six people worldwide affected by it, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) last summer. Christmas, with its conveyed ideal images, is particularly suitable for feeling the opposite of security and closeness: "For many children and young people, this expectation can be burdensome, especially if their reality deviates from it," explained Birgit Satke, head of the counseling team at Rat auf Draht. Loneliness is neither a question of age, nor does one have to be alone to feel it. And whatever the trigger may be: According to Bayer, coping begins - as trivial as it may sound - with a conversation with a trusted person.

Counseling Centers and Services in Austria

Such a person can be found, for example, at various service centers. While Rat auf Draht specifically targets young people, there are numerous other services that help find ways out of loneliness. "For people who feel lonely or desperate, anonymous phone calls can be a first step to find comfort and guidance," said Harald G. Janisch, head of the personal counseling and care group at the Vienna Chamber of Commerce - and pointed to the services of the Vienna life and social counselors. However, Janisch also advises caution, as those seeking psychological support or coaching "should carefully check what training and business license the provider can present."

The demand for such support has increased since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic and with the subsequent crises, and it increases again with the holidays: "The number of people seeking help who turn to our support centers in the country is rising significantly," said the Hilfswerk expert and clinical psychologist Martina Genser-Medlitsch in a statement on the topic.

"Don't Downplay It!"

Those affected should take the feeling of loneliness seriously, according to the expert. "Don't downplay it! Organize timely and conscious encounters with other people - in person, by phone, or video." During the holidays, one should treat themselves to something special, like a restaurant visit or cultural offerings. Bayer also advises engaging in activities and self-gifting. It is important to recognize that it is not a sign of weakness to seek advice from other people or support services, he said in an interview with APA.

Health-Damaging Loneliness

The aid organization, meanwhile, reminded that everyone can actively help: "Do you know single, elderly, and/or sick people in your vicinity? Please don't hesitate to approach them! Offer them a conversation around the holidays, visit them, and give them a little time and attention," this would alleviate feelings of loneliness on one hand and be a gift for both, Genser-Medlitsch was convinced.

Loneliness can also become a health problem, as several studies show. Actual and perceived social isolation are associated with an increased risk of premature mortality. Bayer advises seeking professional help if the feeling of loneliness persists for a longer period.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.