The season of joy and loneliness

"For most of us, Christmas is the season to be merry and revel in social activities, however, as Christmas is approaching, so is the realisation for many people that they will spend this holiday season by themselves.  In later life we are particularly vulnerable to loneliness since we may have suffered losses of friends and family, mobility or income. 
 
Put simply, isolation refers to the involuntary, complete or near complete lack of contact with people and society.  It includes many people with different characteristics, and it impacts on an individual’s quality of life and their wellbeing.  

During the festive season, these problems can be intensified.  Social isolation also affects children and not just the elderly.  To alleviate loneliness, we can raise awareness and provide information and encourage groups and organisations to reach out to lonely individuals.  There are ways to combat loneliness, but most of them start with you.  By reaching out, someone else can reach you.  However, no one organisation or person can tackle all social isolation.  It is everyone’s business and we must look at how we can work collectively to tackle it.
 
Social isolation is not an issue specific to the festive season, but it can be harder for those people who have few people to connect with.  So, over the coming weeks, as life becomes busier in the lead up to Christmas, it might be a good time to reflect on our own lives and think about how we can create more connected and inclusive communities.

It might be as simple as saying ‘hello’ to someone and starting a conversation, talking to a neighbour or smiling at someone when you are out shopping or walking in your local area.  Think about offering someone a lift, offer to do some shopping or invite someone without family or friends to join you for a Christmas meal. 
 
Here at GL Communities through the Phoenix Community Centre in Matson we've been hosting a number of events including a ‘Christmas Treats’ Workshop, Christmas Coffee Morning and through CCP (Caring for Communities & People) we are hoping to provide a number of Christmas Hampers and presents for individuals and families who are struggling to afford food and heating alongside the expectations of the festive season.
 
Here’s wishing you all a Happy Christmas.”

Author

Steve Long, Health & Wellbeing Project Co-ordinator, GL Communities