Not everyone enjoys the ‘silent nights’ of Christmas – here’s how you can help

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” sings Andy Williams on his Christmas classic. However, as the festive season approaches, not everyone is humming this tune.

Meaningful connection is one of the best cures for loneliness.Credit: iStock

In fact, it can be a particularly difficult period for some, with reports of feelings of increased loneliness — but not for the reasons you may think.

Yes, there is loneliness that comes from the feeling of social isolation if you don’t have close family or a network of friends to lean on for support.

But loneliness can also be triggered by less obvious stressors such as financial pressures, relationship issues, grief and/or loss, or unmatched expectations.

In other words, you don’t have to be alone to feel lonely. While checking in with others, remembering that meaningful connections have the power to make a huge impact, can be a great start to help someone who may be feeling lonely.

Being Christmas and all, there is no better time to spread the message of hope. So, whether you are feeling lonely yourself or know of someone who could do with an extra boost this holiday season, we have some ideas for spreading some holiday cheer, one small act at a time.

Choose to check in

Connecting, even in a small way, can mean a lot. At its very simplest, a text message asking how someone is doing is a good way to show them they’re in your thoughts. You can take it a step further by picking up the phone — a good natter is hard to beat. If you want to reach out to an office pal, mosey on over to their desk to ask how they’re doing rather than emailing or using work chat.

Really making space for someone and making them feel heard — instead of just giving solutions — will show them that you genuinely care.

Make a meal of it

Put out the feelers to grab a coffee or a casual lunch or dinner among all the seasonal craziness. Carving out a few hours from your schedule will be worth it for the both of you. Make it fun and dare each other to buy a gift for a ridiculously small amount of money or see who can find the tackiest Christmas jumper.

But remember the catch-up is more important than the activity itself, so any meet-up that allows you to spend time with family and friends, even if you’re watching your budget, is a valuable way to spend your time.

Catch a movie

If you or the person you want to meet up with is a bit shy socially, getting together for a movie is perfect. While sitting in a dark room for a few hours without uttering a word doesn’t scream “emotional connection”, it’s amazing how shared experiences can go a long way to making someone feel a part of something.

Fun for all ages

The best gift for elderly friends, relatives or neighbours? Your time.Credit: iStock

If you’ve got an elderly relative, family friend or neighbour, even though you don’t hang out at the same places doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do together. Some of the activities mentioned above could be just the ticket. Or grab some bakery treats and head over for a visit, invite them around for a cuppa, or ask them to join in any meals or gatherings they may enjoy. When it comes to summer socialising, the more the merrier.

Give the gift of time

Volunteering can be transformative for everyone involved, and many places could use a helping hand to bring joy to those in need.

Consider helping out at a care home, or a charitable organisation that supports those who are struggling, such as a food kitchen, a women’s shelter or a hospital. It’s a great way to meet people and helping others will make you feel great, too.

No time? No worries

If none of the above is possible for you, there is still one huge way you can help. And that’s by donating to an organisation making a real difference. Lifeline does incredible work providing a listening ear to those who may be feeling alone. Through its 24/7 phone, text and crisis support services, as well as online tools that support mental health and wellbeing, Lifeline has listened to thousands of Australians in need of support over its 60 years of operation.

Its services are crucial at this time of year, in particular, when the “silent nights” may feel a bit too much for some. Your donation to help Lifeline continue its vital work could be one of the most impactful ways you support others this Christmas.

Click here to donate to the important work Lifeline does and do your bit to spread some Christmas hope.

If you or someone you know needs crisis support, please call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14, or visit www.lifeline.org.au for online chat service or for resources to self-manage what you’re going through. All crisis support services are available 24/7.