I'll Be Home (Alone) for Christmas: How to Make the Best Out of Being Alone for the Holidays

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- You're new to town, your ex took the kids for the weekend, or you're snowed in -- whatever the case may be, you've somehow found yourself spending the holidays alone this season. But don't let the cheery ads and festive store windows get you down; there are several ways you can enjoy the season to the fullest.

If you weren't planning on being on your own, there is still time to find company for the holidays. Here are some things you can do to avoid being alone:

-- Get out in the community -- Volunteering is a great way to surround yourself with people and give back at the same time. Spend the day at a children's hospital or sign up with a local soup kitchen.

-- Find other holiday singles -- Find out if friends or other people you know from your building or office are spending the holidays alone and plan a gathering for yourselves.

-- Don't be afraid to invite yourself -- Call a friend and let them know you'll be alone. You might just land an invite to dinner. If not, try a different friend!

Should you find yourself snowed in or choose to be alone, that doesn't mean you have to be lonely or that you won't enjoy the holidays. If you live alone in snow country and there's a possibility of a blizzard, stock up on your favorite treats - foods, beverages, movies, bubble bath, whatever makes you feel good. Consider some of these ideas to make a solo holiday a great time:

-- Make it a special night in -- Fix your favorite dinner, start the fire, and watch a movie.

-- Go on vacation -- Treat yourself to the getaway you've always wanted, like a cruise or ski trip.

-- Tackle a postponed project -- Start that scrapbook, finish the bathroom, or try playing guitar.

-- Call or write loved ones -- Rekindle a relationship with someone you care about or haven't talked to.

However you choose to spend your holidays, be positive and take time to do all the things you enjoy. If you find yourself feeling depressed or lonely, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist can help you discover the cause of your unhappiness and guide you towards feeling more secure with being alone.

For more information about Marriage and Family Therapists, or to locate a therapist in your area, please visit http://www.TherapistFinder.com.

About CAMFT

The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, with 27 chapters throughout the state, is an independent professional organization, representing the interests of licensed marriage and family therapists. CAMFT provides TherapistFinder.com as a resource to the public looking for marriage and family therapists located in California. For more information about CAMFT, please call (858) 292-2638 or visit http://www.camft.org.

SOURCE California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

RELATED LINKS
http://www.TherapistFinder.com
http://www.camft.org