Spending Christmas alone? Here are 10 mood-boosting things to get you through it (2024)

Are you spending Christmas alone this year? Whether it's by choice or circ*mstance, it's important to try and ease loneliness and focus on the positives.

"We all have it in our power to reduce loneliness, whether that's through making a phone call, sending a Christmas card or seeing someone for a walk – it really can make a difference," Baroness Barran, the Conservative Minister for Loneliness, previously told Country Living UK.

"We're determined to tackle the stigma of loneliness, because even just talking about it can make you feel better and realise you're not alone."

Take a look at some of the mood-boosting things you can do below...

Whatever it is, carving out time to do small joyful activities will distract you from dwelling on your situation. For some, it may be watching a festive film, while for others it may be doing something therapeutic like painting or writing.

"Spend the day doing things you enjoy," the team at Mind explain. "For example, this could be taking a morning jog, playing video games or doing puzzles. Or it could be having a hot bath with a good book, or a lie-in wearing your favourite pyjamas."

If you're spending the season alone, try connecting with loved ones virtually. It might not be the same as face-to-face interaction, but it can certainly help to ease the pangs of loneliness. You can catch up for a chat or even get into the festive spirit by playing some virtual Christmas party games. This is especially helpful if your friends or family live miles away or even further afield.

Mind explains: "There are lots of ways to talk to people online, including with others who may be spending Christmas alone. Mind's online community Side by Side is a welcoming place to speak with others and share your experiences. And British comedian Sarah Millican hosts a Christmas day chat on X (previously known as Twitter) each year, which anyone can join."

It might be Christmas, but there's no obligation to celebrate if you don't want to. "You may decide not to mark Christmas this year, and just treat it as if it's any other day. This may feel easier than trying to celebrate alone," say the team at Mind.

Much like how you don't need to have a traditional Christmas day, the same can be said for Christmas dinner. If turkey and all the trimmings isn't your thing, why not indulge in some of your favourite food on December 25th. From your favourite home cooked meal to decadent desserts, you can even have it delivered if you don't feel like cooking.

For those spending the season alone, seeing a social media feed jam-packed with Christmas-themed photos and happy families can lead to sadness and comparison. If you're by yourself, why not use the opportunity to take a digital detox? It's a simple act of self-care that could benefit your mental health this Christmas.

When we're feeling low, one of the best things we can do is give back to those around us. In fact, previous research found that those who make time to help others stop feeling lonely themselves.

From helping to feed the homeless to gifting a Refuge parcel, there are many acts of kindness you can do over the festive period to help those in need. Take a look at some ideas below...

• Volunteer with the charity Re-Engage and speak with elderly people who are spending the season alone. Something as simple as a phone call could be the lifeline they need.
• Help a young homeless person to eat a hot meal this Christmas through Centrepoint. For just £20, you could help to save and change lives.
• Help at a food bank. You can either donate food or volunteer in person through The Trussell Trust.
• Gift a Refuge parcel to help a young woman in need this Christmas.
• See if you can help with refugees in your local area. Contact your council for information on how to get involved.

Embrace the empty streets by heading out for a long walk; wrap up warm, grab a hot drink and aimlessly stroll around your favourite area. Whether it's in the deep folds of the countryside or around your hometown, soaking up the fresh, crisp air will help to clear your head and refresh your mind.

"Due to shorter days and dark nights, it can be difficult to find the motivation to stay active. However, keeping fit is very important, especially if you tend to struggle with your mental health over the festive period," Martin Preston, Founder and Chief Executive at Private Rehab Clinic Delamere, says. "Even something as little as going out for a walk in the fresh air everyday will make you feel better."

As part of our Country Living loneliness campaign, we have rounded-up the charities, organisations and helpline services that provide support for people who are lonely. Take a look at the 15 organisations that can help people feeling lonely.

You can still make Christmas merry and bright on your own. If you need a little pick-me-up, why not treat yourself to something special? Whether it's a new winter coat or a book you've been wanting to read, don't feel guilty about treating yourself to things that spark joy.

Life can get so busy that we often forget to take time for ourselves. Turn your bathroom into your very own spa and pamper yourself with a DIY face mask, an at-home mani-pedi or even just light a few candles and have an extra long soak in the tub.

Setting goals gives your life direction and boosts levels of motivation, too. As well as a time of reflection, writing down what you want to achieve next year is a brilliant way to focus on the positives – and put yourself first.

Grab a notebook, pen and start dreaming...

If loneliness is affecting your day-to-day life, or causing your mental health to worsen, speak to your GP.