Christmas has become the loneliest time of the year since I lost my wife
DEAR DEIDRE: AFTER losing my wife, Christmas has become the loneliest time of the year.
Nobody ever makes an effort with me any more and I just know I’ll end up spending the day home alone again with my dog.
I’m 69 and I lost my wife to cancer five years ago.
We had two children and three grandchildren and I used to love our big family Christmases. Our house would always be filled with so much laughter and joy.
But everything changed when my wife died. Both our children decided to move away and now I spend the festive season all alone.
Even though they try to visit occasionally, Christmas Day always serves as a reminder of what I’ve lost.
I miss cooking for my family, playing with my grandchildren, and hearing about my kids’ lives.
I’m starting to get used to it, but it still hurts to know I have nobody to share the day with.
I feel so down.
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DEIDRE SAYS: Being alone at Christmas can feel isolating but it is more common than you think.
Perhaps it could be worth reaching out to your kids and telling them how you feel. They may not even realise how down you are and could make alternative arrangements for you.
Otherwise, try to keep busy. You won’t be the only one feeling lonely, so why not volunteer? Check out Do-it (doit.life/volunteer).
My pack Worried About Christmas will give you some other ideas too.