Dear Misty
Hello and welcome to Beyond Blue. So pleased you found your way here. Yes, Christmas can be a very lonely time for many people for many reasons. And when you add depression and anxiety it becomes worse.
Do you have any plans for Christmas? I see you have become estranged from your family. This is sad at any time, but somehow is much worse at Christmas when we traditionally spend time together. Is there any possibility of getting together this year? Because it's Christmas people can be more caring and compassionate, but of course I do not know the circumstances of your estrangement.
If you are going to be alone on Christmas day can you go to your local park or a similar place and at least be near other people. I know it's not the same but staying indoors on your own will be rather horrible. The various helplines will be open if you become too distressed.
Are there any organisations near you which are putting on a Christmas Day dinner, perhaps for disadvantaged people. Perhaps you can volunteer to help out. Giving support to others can make you feel a bit better. You could talk to some of the diners about their lives which is always an amazing experience. I think the Salvation Army often have these sorts of functions so it would be worthwhile to ask. They are always short of help and would be pleased to have you along.
See if there are any other activities around where you can help and/or join in. No one should be alone on Christmas Day.
Please continue to write in.
Mary
