The holiday season is upon us yet again, and it seems like everyone is wrapped up in the warmth of togetherness and good cheer.
It sounds perfect. However, while many families are decking the halls and enjoying companionship, the holidays serve as a spotlight on loneliness and isolation for others.
As carols and twinkling lights fill the air, feelings of disconnection can creep in, sometimes fuelling a desire to fill the emptiness by returning to old habits. Unfortunately, looking for a quick escape from the ache of isolation can end up making things worse.
With certain times of the year hitting harder than others, loneliness and substance abuse share a complex relationship. Finding connection and support during the festive season can help you navigate these challenging times.
Understanding the Connection Between Loneliness and Substance Abuse
The complex connection between loneliness and substance abuse can create a cycle that's difficult to break.
Deep feelings of isolation can cause people to turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism. Eventually, they become reliant on the substances to provide relief from the emptiness. The relief is temporary, which intensifies the feelings of dependence and desire for relief to create a vicious circle.
Research indicates that people who suffer from chronic loneliness are at a higher risk of developing substance abuse. As the feelings grow stronger, the desire to numb them can lead to increased drinking or substance use.
For people recovering from a substance abuse disorder, the challenge is to avoid slipping back into old habits. In either case, breaking the cycle of loneliness and substance abuse through connections and support is essential to fostering a sense of belonging and finding joy in the festive season.
Recognising Signs of Struggle
Recognising when you are struggling is critical to getting timely support--even more so during the holiday season when these feelings can be more intense. Take care of your wellbeing by being mindful of the following signs that you may be wrestling with loneliness.
Increased irritability and mood swings can make it harder for you to participate in social activities, gatherings, and family events.
Are there changes in your communication habits? Do you find yourself reaching out less, making fewer phone calls and texts, feel worthless or hopeless, and regularly engage in negative self-talk.
A decline in personal hygiene, changes in appetite, feeling fatigued, or feeling unwell without an obvious reason are also signs that you are struggling with your mental health and could benefit from a personal connection.
Recognising any of these signs in yourself or someone you know is the first step to getting support and assistance. A support network of friends and family can provide a valuable lifeline as can getting professional help when addressing loneliness and preventing substance abuse during the holidays.
Make a Connection Today
The holiday season is a time that is supposed to be filled with joy and celebration, but it can also intensify feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Understanding the connection between loneliness and substance abuse is the first step towards the healing that comes through personal connections and professional support.
If you, or someone you know is facing challenges related to isolation or substance abuse this holiday season, seek help as soon as possible. Remember, you do not have to make the journey alone.
Reach out to friends and family or take advantage of Reset My Future's free consultation to take your first step towards healing and finding joy this festive season.
