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Getting Through the Holidays: A Guide for Survivors

The holiday season can be a difficult time for survivors, especially if feelings of loneliness or isolation begin to weigh heavy. If you're feeling disconnected, it’s important to know that there are ways to take care of yourself and even create moments of peace and joy during this season. Here are a few ways to help you navigate the holidays and feel less alone.

1. Create New Traditions

You don’t need a big family gathering to create meaningful traditions. Start something special for yourself:

Watch your favorite movie or a holiday film that brings you comfort.

Bake or cook something you enjoy—even if it’s just for yourself.

Light a candle each night to symbolize hope, peace, or healing.

Write a gratitude list each day, focusing on small things you’re thankful for, even if they seem insignificant.

2. Volunteer or Give Back

One powerful way to combat loneliness is by helping others. Many organizations are looking for extra hands during the holidays, and volunteering can connect you to a sense of purpose.

Look for soup kitchens, shelters, or food pantries in your area that need volunteers.

If you can’t volunteer in person, consider small acts of kindness—sending encouraging letters to others, donating to a cause, or even leaving positive notes in your community.

3. Join Online Communities or Virtual Events

If being alone at home feels too much, there are virtual communities and events you can participate in.

Attend an online support group or a holiday event hosted by nonprofits. These can be safe spaces to share your feelings and connect with others.

Join an online book club or watch party where you can engage with people without feeling pressured to leave your home.

4. Create a Calm, Peaceful Environment

Decorating your space doesn’t have to be for anyone else—it can be just for you. Make your home or room a cozy, welcoming place:

Add twinkling lights, a blanket, or something that brings you warmth and joy.

Play calming holiday music, light candles, or set up a small holiday tree to create a sense of festivity.

Practice mindfulness and deep breathing exercises in a comfortable spot to ground yourself when the loneliness feels overwhelming.

5. Treat Yourself

It’s okay to take this time to focus on yourself and your healing. Think about small, meaningful ways to pamper yourself:

Plan a special self-care day with a hot bath, favorite book, or a cozy drink.

Order your favorite takeout meal or bake a simple dessert for yourself.

Give yourself permission to rest, sleep in, or binge-watch a show you love.

6. Reach Out for Support, Even from Afar

Even if you don’t have close relationships, consider reaching out to someone:

Call or message a trusted friend, mentor, or family member, even if it’s just to chat.

If faith is part of your life, spend some time in prayer or reflection. You might also consider attending an online holiday service to feel connected to your faith community.

If you don’t feel comfortable reaching out to those you know, there are hotlines and support groups like RAINN or local organizations that offer a safe space to talk.

7. Take a Walk or Spend Time in Nature

Nature can be incredibly healing, even in the colder months. Bundle up and take a walk through a park or your neighborhood, noticing the sights, smells, and sounds around you.

If possible, visit holiday light displays or nature trails to bring a sense of wonder and joy to your day.

If leaving home isn’t an option, find a quiet spot to sit by a window, let in the light, and breathe deeply as you connect with your surroundings.

8. Focus on Healing, Not Perfection

This time of year can stir up difficult emotions, and it’s okay to feel them. The holidays don’t have to be perfect, and neither do you.

Let go of any pressure to “get it right” and focus on what brings you peace, even if it’s something small.

Remind yourself that it’s okay to not be okay, and that healing is not a straight line.

9. Plan for the Future

The holiday season is temporary, and it’s okay to look forward to better days. Use this time to reflect on your goals and hopes for the coming year.

Write down what you want for your healing journey. Even small steps, like attending a support group or picking up a new hobby, can be empowering.

Dream about something that excites you, whether it’s a future trip, a project, or simply trying something new.

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Remember: You Are Not Alone

It’s easy to feel disconnected during the holidays, but remember that you are not truly alone. There are resources, people, and even small actions that can bring light to this season.

As hard as it may feel, you are worthy of love, care, and hope—this holiday season and beyond.

Happy Holidays and manyblessings,

Kathe'rine