If you ask me New Year’s Eve can feel like the loneliest day of the year. The papers and TV are pushing the message that we should be out celebrating till midnight and beyond. Lot’s of shops and places to visit are shut, quite rightly so that workers get a break. But that feeling that everyone else but you are having a wonderful time with friends can creep in to you and settle… it’s not true of course but then when is your heart ruled by truth… it is the place of emotion and feeling.
Recently a report was published that summarised the issues around loneliness. As you might imagine there is masses of information about what causes loneliness. Anniversaries such as Christmas and New Year or times of change like when you retire or if your health changes can dramatically affect your sense of wellbeing and confidence. It’s important then to know that the lonely feelings are very common. Sometimes the hardest thing is to put shoes on and step out but be brave and make that step, there are loads of others out there dying to meet you and feeling similarly anxious.
One of the best ways to get through the changes is to start something new. Frome Community Education has a great range of classes on offer. There are also lots of ways to keep involved by volunteering… check on the website Volunteer Frome for many opportunities to link up with like minded folk and provide a valuable service.
I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank all those that cannot take a break this week… first the post workers delivering all those cards and parcels. And of course the emergency services, the fire brigade, doctors, nurses and ambulance service and the police.
Hope you all have a peaceful and joyous New Year!
