How to Survive the Holidays Alone

being alone during the holidays can be a depressing time, especially when you're not used to it. Here are some tips on how to survive the holidays alone.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Volunteer. Serve hot meals at a soup kitchen or read books to children at an orphanage, for example. There are unlimited volunteer opportunities available for your interest, so look around. Not only will you be around other people but you will feel great donating your time to the world. Volunteer work is not only available during the holiday season but year round.

2. Go to the movies! Watch a funny movie at the cinema to lift up your spirits. Maybe treat yourself to dinner as well if you don't feel like cooking the holiday meal.

3. Finish old projects that you've been putting off and/or do some chores. House a mess? Clean it! Maybe put some dance music/holiday music to motivate you. Keeping yourself busy will help clear your mind.

4. Call up friends and family and sing christmas carols to them over the phone. They will appreciate it.

5. Go to a karaoke bar and sing your heart out.

6. Know someone who will also be spending the holidays alone? Invite them to spend the holidays with you!

Tips & Warnings

• If you have to stay at home, keep yourself busy and moving. Do not just sit in front of your computer or watch tv all day. If that's the case, go out and get some fresh air. Go out into the town where it's packed with people and socialize with strangers.
• never self medicate with drugs and alcohol when you're depressed. it will only make things worse. talk to a trusted friend or family member (even if it's on the phone) or call a 24 hour crisis hotline.

[matrisha]

on 1/16/2009 it is always good to have someone for the holidays