Get Out:<\/strong> Getting out of your typical surroundings, whether that be your home or even your town, can be helpful. The benefits of being outside, even for a little bit, are well-documented.<\/a> So, if you can, make sure you get a few steps or breaths outside each day. And, for a creative turn, it can help to be outside of your own experience. Even if you are not interacting with other people, it can help to take a drive to see other people and sights you don\u2019t normally see. Just remembering how big humanity is and that everyone else is just trying to get along like you are can be comforting. You are not alone in your experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be Creative:<\/strong> If you are not able to do and be with the people you want to be with, get creative. There are so many virtual ways to get together now. Even having one virtual get-together a week with a friend (or a group of friends) can be a big help to those feelings of being all alone. Be the one who reaches out and schedules with others! And, if you do have more time on your own, it could be time to start some new connections. Starting a new hobby can keep you busy, picking up a few holiday hours at a local store may provide connections, or finding other people online who share similar interests may create a whole new community for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Set a Routine:<\/strong> In times with less structure we can be very tempted to let go of our usual get ready, shower, bedtime, workout, eating routines. However, while the occasional break from the ordinary is good, extended lack of routine can be counter-productive to our overall well-being. Setting a schedule for yourself, setting alarms, even setting a weekly goal or two can be helpful for focusing on what you can do rather than focusing on not being with others. If you\u2019re just starting out, try starting your mornings well. That often leads to a better rest of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tell Someone if You are Struggling:<\/strong> Whether through phone calls, FaceTime, Zoom, texts, social media, or virtual counseling<\/a>, you have more options than ever to reach out if you are having a hard time during the holidays. It may not be the same as being in a room with someone but that doesn\u2019t mean it isn\u2019t helpful. Even if you only write in a journal, getting words out of yourself can help with feelings of isolation and loneliness. Remember, however you are feeling is okay, and you certainly aren\u2019t the only one feeling that way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.mopip.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/love-4089493_1280-1024x682.jpg\")
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