Beating Holiday Loneliness: Our Guide To Beat The Holiday Blues

School holidays are supposed to be all fun and freedom, right? But let’s be real—when your friends are busy or out of town, and your family is working,  it can feel like the longest, loneliest stretch ever. If you’re staring at your phone waiting for a text or wondering how to survive the next few weeks solo, don’t worry. We have your back with tips to turn those lonely days into something way better.

Step 1: Feel Your Feels

Firstly, it’s okay to feel lonely. It happens to evre.one. Don’t beat yourself up or pretend you’re fine when you’re not. Take a moment to acknowledge it—write it down, talk it out, or just let yourself feel sad for a bit. You’re human, and this is normal. But here’s the deal: don’t let it take over your whole holiday. You might actually learn to enjoy your own company - which is a lifelong skill to have!

Step 2: Plan Like a Pro

Got nothing to do? We can help with some ideas…Make a holiday bucket list, even if it’s just for yourself. It could be as simple as “try a new recipe,” “paint something,” or “binge-watch a new series.” Add some variety to your list with ideas like having a picnic in the park, going on a beach trip, or exploring a new hiking trail near your house. Try baking holiday-themed cookies or starting a daily gratitude journal. You could also paint or scrapbook your favorite memories, cook a dish from a country you’d love to visit, or have a movie marathon with a theme like Disney classics or action trilogies. Giving yourself goals, no matter how small, creates excitement and gives you something to look forward to every day. 

Step 3: Get Creative!

You’ve got free time—use it to do something cool or totally random. Always wanted to learn to knit? Go for it. Fancy baking a cake just to eat it yourself? Why not? Maybe start a secret TikTok account where you try weird makeup looks. When you focus on creating or learning, you’ll realise how awesome you are to hang out with.

Step 4: Move Your Body, Change Your Mood

Feeling stuck and lonely? Get moving. Pop on your favorite playlist and dance around your room (no one’s watching). Go for a walk, ride your bike, or hit up YouTube for a workout. Moving releases happy chemicals in your brain, so even a quick 10-minute stretch can flip your mood.

Step 5: Connect Where You Can

If your usual crew is MIA, this is the perfect time to expand your circle. Join a holiday program, try and get a part time job or even say hi to someone new online (safely, of course). You might find friends in unexpected places…

Step 6: Treat Yourself Like a VIP

Loneliness can feel heavy, so balance it out with a little self-care. Take a bubble bath with your fave bath bomb,  put on your comfiest pajamas, and make yourself a hot chocolate with extra marshmallows. Watch your favorite comfort movie or create the ultimate playlist that makes you feel like the main character - if your siblings are home, invite them to watch it with you!

Step 7: Talk to Someone You Trust

Still feeling down? That’s okay. Reach out to someone who gets you—a parent, sibling, or even a teacher. Talking about how you feel doesn’t make you weak, it makes you brave.

Step 8: Remember: It’s Temporary

Loneliness can feel overwhelming, but it’s often just a season in your life. When things slow down—like during the holidays or between school terms—it’s the perfect opportunity to nurture the most important relationship you’ll ever have: the one with yourself.

Instead of focusing on what’s missing, ask yourself: What makes me happy? What sparks my curiosity? What brings me joy? Dive into a new hobby, revisit an old passion, or simply allow yourself to explore life at your own pace.

Becoming your own best friend means learning to enjoy your own company. It’s realising that spending time with yourself isn’t lonely—it’s empowering. And who knows? By the time things pick up again, you might have a fresh appreciation for who you are and the quiet strength you’ve built.

If you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for support. You can contact Youthline at 0800 37 66 33 or text 234 for help. For additional support, the Steve Fund offers resources for teens, especially focusing on mental health and wellness. Visit their website for more: The Steve Fund.

So embrace the present, and let it be an adventure of self-discovery. You’ve got this. 🌟