Home Alone for the Holidays? Navigating Loneliness in the Beehive State

Hey there, Utah! As the holiday lights twinkle across the Salt Lake Valley and festive gatherings seem to be happening everywhere, it's easy to feel a bit... well, left out if you're spending the season solo. Whether you're far from family, dealing with a recent loss, or just feeling isolated, the holidays can amplify feelings of loneliness.

But here's the thing: being alone doesn't have to mean being lonely. Let's explore some ways to find connection, joy, and meaning during the holiday season, even if you're flying solo.

10 Ways to Combat Holiday Loneliness in Utah

1. Reach Out and Connect Don't wait for others to reach out to you.

Try this: Set up a virtual game night with friends or family using platforms like Zoom. Or join local online communities like Utah Hiking or SLC Foodies to connect with like-minded folks.

1. Volunteer Your Time Helping others can boost your mood and provide a sense of connection.

Try this: Volunteer at the Utah Food Bank or help serve meals at the St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall. You'll meet new people and make a difference.

1. Treat Yourself Show yourself the love and care you'd show others.

Try this: Plan a day of self-care. Maybe a spa day at The Grand Spa or a solo trip to the Natural History Museum of Utah.

1. Explore Utah's Winter Wonderland Nature can be incredibly healing and grounding.

Try this: Take a scenic drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon or go for a winter walk around Silver Lake. The beauty of Utah's landscapes can lift your spirits.

1. Join a Holiday Event Many community events welcome solo attendees.

Try this: Attend a holiday concert at Abravanel Hall or join a community carol sing at Temple Square. You'll be part of something bigger than yourself.

1. Create New Traditions Who says holidays have to be celebrated the "traditional" way?

Try this: Start your own holiday tradition. Maybe it's watching the sunset from Ensign Peak on Christmas Eve or having a movie marathon of your favorite films.

1. Practice Gratitude Focusing on what you're thankful for can shift your perspective.

Try this: Start a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you appreciate about your life in Utah.

1. Stay Active Exercise can be a powerful mood booster.

Try this: Join a holiday-themed fun run like the Santa Run in Sugar House Park, or try a new winter sport like snowshoeing at Solitude.

1. Limit Social Media Seeing others' highlight reels can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.

Try this: Set boundaries for your social media use. Maybe check it once a day, then use that extra time to read a book from The King's English Bookshop or try a new hobby.

1. Seek Professional Support If loneliness is significantly impacting your life, it's okay to ask for help.

Try this: Consider talking to a therapist. Many offer virtual sessions, making it easy to get support from the comfort of your home.

Remember, there's no one "right" way to do the holidays. It's okay to feel your feelings, but also know that you have the power to create meaningful experiences for yourself. You're not alone in feeling lonely - many people struggle with this, especially during the holidays. Be kind to yourself and know that this season, like all seasons, will pass.

[Call to Action: Struggling with feelings of loneliness this holiday season? Let's talk about it. Schedule a session and we'll work on strategies to help you find connection and joy, even when you're on your own.]