After a tough year that’s both dragged and flown by, Christmas is suddenly upon us, yet without the usual festive parties and joyful get-togethers. For now, the days when we can pop to see loved ones for a mulled wine and to exchange gifts may not be possible. And, as well as fretting about the second wave this winter, one in four of us is also worrying about something just as damaging to our health – loneliness.
Research by the charity Campaign to End Loneliness shows almost 60% of us fear we won’t see family and friends this Christmas due to COVID-19 restrictions, with a quarter worried they’ll wind up spending the festive season completely alone.
Experts warn the longer the pandemic goes on, the more likely long-term loneliness can trigger mental-health problems like depression, anxiety and increased stress. Yet, since March, we’ve seen incredible acts of kindness, compassion and camaraderie, and the festive season is sure to inspire more. Many of us have honed our digital skills and learnt to enjoy company at a distance.
Woman looks at how we can we beat loneliness and celebrate with loved ones, even if we can’t be together.
80% of us are concerned about an older person shielding from COVID-19 on their own.
‘I’VE ALREADY STARTED PLANNING HOW TO INJECT SOME FESTIVE CHEER’
Amanda Harding, 49, lives in north London and works for the NHS as a voluntary sport and exercise support worker.
I’ve always loved Christmas and it’s usually a time when I meet up with friends and family to exchange gifts, eat, drink and be merry. I try to book in as much as possible over the festive period, and December usually passes in a blur.
This story is from the November 09 - 16, 2020 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 09 - 16, 2020 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Terminal cancer, BUT HAPPIER THAN EVER
Despite her diagnosis, Jacqui Drake is determined to live the best life she can while also helping others
Simple LOAF CAKES
Three fuss-free sweet treats all made in a 900g tin
SCENIC sailing
Ariver cruise along the Danube Delta is a wonderful way to relax and watch the world float by
THE TRUTH about dating as a single mum
Rosie Green was shocked by what many men were thinking
Younger eyes in 10 MINUTES
Worried your vision is ageing you? These lifestyle tweaks can help
Lawsuits, splits and FAMILY BATTLES!
It's been an eventful time for the royals since the King was crowned last May. We take a look at his first year at the helm of The Firm
When will KNIFE CRIME STOP?
With the world horrified after the recent stabbings in Sydney, we ask...
Ozempic: SHARON vs KELLY
As Sharon Osbourne warns others against using the controversial drug for weight loss, her daughter Kelly Osbourne is all for it
Eric makes me AKID AGAIN
Simon Cowell on why this year’s Britain’s Got Talent is different, training up his son Eric to become a judge and reuniting with Cheryl
Look at me NOW!
Sue Sykes found that losing over 9st had several surprising benefits