All we want for Christmas is some time alone, a new survey says. Here’s how to get more for yourself this holiday season

A majority of Americans (56%) say adequate personal time is an important part of their mental health—but nearly half (46%) don’t get it during the winter holidays. That’s according to a new study from the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine, whose findings were published on December 3.

Setting aside time for yourself, however brief, can have mental and physical benefits, according to Sophie Lazarus, PhD, an Ohio State psychologist who specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, as well as psychologically based measures.

“With just a short break, our nervous system can stabilize, our mind can stabilize, our body can stabilize,” Lazarus said in a news release about the study. “And I think that can be important. We know that chronic stress is not good for us.”

Ohio State conducted a survey of more than 1,000 US adults in October, who were asked if they agreed with the following statements:

• I wish I could take time for myself: 43%
• It is very important to my mental health to have enough time alone: 56%
• I don’t have time for others during the holidays: 46%
• I get very upset because I don’t have enough alone time: 36%

Men (47%) and women (45%) were almost as likely to say they don’t have time for each other during the holidays. People 65 and over (38%) are less likely to say the same, with smaller groups ranging from 47% to 49%. When considering annual household income, those bringing in $50,000 to $74,999 were more likely (31%) to indicate less time spent alone; respondents in the highest and lowest income brackets ranged from 42% to 50%. People of color (50%) were more likely than white people (43%) to report insufficient time alone during the holidays.

Throughout this season of giving, it’s okay to present yourself with the gift of privacy, Lasaro said.

“I think it’s important to remember that just because you put yourself first doesn’t mean you’re selfish and it doesn’t mean you always make the choice to put yourself first.”

The US loneliness epidemic continues

Ohio State’s study comes as the state faces an epidemic of loneliness. Last year, General Practitioner Dr. Vivek Murthy declared the problem a public health crisis, and his office stressed that lack of social connection increases the risk of premature death by more than 60%.

“Our relationships are a source of healing and health hidden in plain sight—one that can help us live healthier, more fulfilling and more productive lives,” Murthy said in a May 2023 statement. health of loneliness and isolation, we must prioritize building community relationships in the same way that we prioritize other important public health issues such as tobacco, obesity and together, we can build a healthier, more sustainable, less lonely and more connected country.”

However, while loneliness may be accompanied by feelings of sadness and abandonment, solitude indicates that a person is content when they choose to be alone. If you like, you don’t have to be physically alone to enjoy alone time, Lazarus said.

“Some people may have alone time by going to the movies alone or going to a park where there are a lot of people, or going to a coffee shop,” said Lazarus. said Lazarus. “It can also be the absence of having to play or interact with friends in a more direct way.”

Mindful tips for carving out just the right amount of time off

If your vacation schedule is full, remember that taking time off doesn’t take a lot of time or effort, Lazarus said. Keep it simple by simply adding time to your schedule.

“Try putting your phone in a completely different room when you decide to spend some time alone, you know how hard it is to say no to it, it attracts us and our priorities ours,” said Lazarus. Or take two or three minutes in the car before you go to pick up your children or before you go home after work to be alone.”

She added, “One size does not fit all. Being flexible and finding a balance is best.”

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these tips for managing stress:

• Take five. Take a deep breath and relax. Even five minutes of self-care can help.
• Be proactive. Walk, stretch, or find another exercise that works for you.
• Connect with others. Connect with friends and family.
• Stick to a daily routine that includes rest, exercise and healthy eating.
• Seek support from friends, family and trusted organizations. Talk to others about your feelings. Meet with pastors or others in your religious congregation.
• Get help from a professional. Talk to your health care provider about how you feel.

If you need immediate mental health support, get in touch 988 Suicide & Lifeline Problems.

To find out more about depression and loneliness:

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