Yonkers Public Library
Yonkers Public Library

All YPL locations will be closed Sunday, Feb. 12 & Monday, Feb. 13 in observance of Lincoln’s Birthday and Sunday, Feb. 19 & Monday, Feb. 20 in observance of Washington’s Birthday.

Overcoming loneliness spelled out in scrabble tiles on a table.

Coping with Loneliness During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time filled with joy, good food and family celebrations for many people. But for some, especially older individuals, those living alone, and others who may not have many friends or family, the holidays can be particularly isolating. 

A recent survey found that 55% of Americans experience loneliness around the holidays, with single adults and Gen Zers being particularly affected. The inability to be with family, anxiety around the Covid-19 pandemic and strained family relationships all contribute to these feelings of loneliness.

It certainly isn’t easy being alone for the holidays, but it’s important to remember that you aren’t truly alone in what you’re feeling. Here are a few ways that can help you cope with loneliness during this holiday season.

  • Practice Self Care

The most important person to take care of is yourself. By taking the time to do things for yourself, you can put your mind and body at ease. Taking a relaxing bath, doing some light exercise, curling up with a good book, or working on a hobby are simple ways to focus on yourself even when you’re feeling down.

  • Give Back to Others

Sometimes, connecting to your community can mean donating your time to others. Consider donating your time to a local nonprofit organization. Volunteer New York is a great place to start if you’re looking for local charities and organizations who are looking for volunteers this holiday season.

  • Reach Out and Connect

While it might feel like you’re alone, there is a community of support available to you when you reach out to find it. Reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a long time can seem daunting, but it can strengthen your connection and help you both to feel less lonely.

If the Covid-19 pandemic is a particular source of anxiety for you, the Westchester Library System has partnered with NY Project Hope to provide crisis counseling and the connection to resources to help address the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

And, whether you prefer virtual programs or visiting our library in person, Yonkers Public Library has many programs during this holiday season to help you connect with your local community.

Virtual Programs

Monday, December 12

Tuesday, December 13

Wednesday, December 14

Thursday, December 15

Friday, December 16

In-Person Programs

Monday, December 12

Tuesday, December 13

Wednesday, December 14

Thursday, December 15

Friday, December 16

For more programs, be sure to check out YPL’s full calendar of events here.

Alison Robles is a part-time clerk at the Crestwood Library. She is an avid reader with a passion for fantasy, history and science fiction. A Yonkers native, she graduated from Iona University in 2020 with a dual-degree in Marketing and Public Relations.