19/12/2025
The festive period is often painted as a joyful time filled with happiness, celebrations and connecting with family friends. It brings more expectations to be around others than any other time of year and not seeing anyone on Christmas Day can be particularly hard for a number of reasons.
If you are struggling with loneliness over the festive period, here are some ways to help you to cope and manage through this difficult time:
- Get active where you can – getting out in nature and moving your body helps us to feel those positive endorphins and is a great way to distract your mind
- Practice self-care – sometimes we just need a day relaxing in order to get through a difficult time. Pop on your favourite film, wrap up warm and look after yourself.
- Volunteer – lots of local charities are always looking for volunteers around the festive period. Pop in to your local food bank, explore local charities or search online to see if there are any opportunities to help out
- Explore local events – visit your local library to see if there are any events happening in the local community to get involved in.
- Reach out – think about any family or friends who you could speak to or see during this time, make plans where you can, even if its just for an hour
If you are finding it really difficult this festive season, there are a number of dedicated services to reach out to:
- Samaritans – call 116 123 for free, confidential support for anyone who needs to talk about their feelings
- Shout – text SHOUT to 85258 for 24/7 crisis support
- Silver Line (Age UK) – call 0800 470 80 90 for people over 55 who are feeling lonely or isolated
We are here to help throughout the festive period and beyond. If you feel you could benefit from support with your mental health, please visit our website for information on how to refer:
🔗 https://www.bsmhft.nhs.uk/our-services/birmingham-healthy-minds/
📞 Or call us on 0121 301 2525
Thank you to Age UK for the statistics