
49% That's the rise in loneliness we've had - as a nation - in the last 10 years. The number of lonely over-50s is set to reach two million by 2026*.
If you have a busy family life and a thriving social circle, it's likely that any time spent alone is much-needed bliss. But, for millions of people in the UK who experience loneliness - and it's not just the elderly who are affected - solitude is a frequent source of misery that can be crippling, especially at this time of year.
Whether you've lost your partner, recently gone through a divorce or maybe your children have their own plans this year, spending Christmas on your own - even if it's just for the day can be hard, particularly when all the TV adverts and movies are centred around people being together. What's more, a lack of social connection can be bad for our health.
Feeling lonely? Here's how to harness the power of me time.
Make the first move
Don't wait for others to find you - reach out. 'There are several ways to connect with people you have similar interests with,' says therapist Denise lordache. Make a list of things you enjoy and see how many can be done in a group. For example, if you love to run (or walk!), join your local parkrun group at parkrun.org.uk or look for volunteer opportunities at getvolunteering.co.uk.
Avoid triggers
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In

From wife TO CARER
After Mel Elliott's husband suffered a brain injury, their relationship changed drastically and irreparably

Love thy NEIGHBOUR
The woman next door had her life sorted – or so Joan thought

'I'm embracing THE FACT I'M SINGLE'
Ruth Langsford on 'difficult divorce', weight loss and leaning on her female friends

LINDA Pauline's DEMENTIA BATTLE
Linda Robson talks to Woman about her friend's health, dating and her new TV gig

Pearls before SWINE
Lady Graystone was simply following a family tradition – one that meant they would never forget her

Inspiring CELEBS
From overcoming obstacles and raising awareness to fighting for change, as International Women's Day arrives we take a look at the stars doing their bit

Time for a DIGITAL DETOX?
Determined to switch off, writer Ella Dove tried going tech-free on a weekend break

Why I confronted MY BULLY ASAN ADULT
Teased and tormented as a schoolgirl, Shona Sibary decided to stand up to her bully decades on

Is your diet MAKING YOU SICK?
If you don't lose weight sensibly, you could end up feeling unwell

Don't put up with hair loss
Sadly, it’s all too easy to dismiss thinning hair as a sign of ageing, but getting help could be easier than you think...