UPDATE: A new poll from the American Psychological Association (APA) reveals a startling surge in holiday loneliness, confirming that over 50% of respondents from a recent survey feel isolated, particularly as we approach December 2025. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for community connection during a season traditionally filled with joy.
As the festive season draws near, the feelings of loneliness and isolation are intensifying, echoing the themes of Billy Wilder’s 1960 classic film, The Apartment. The film’s protagonist, C.C. Baxter, struggles with profound loneliness in New York City, mirroring today’s societal challenges. With winter weather and social pressures looming, many are finding themselves adrift in a sea of isolation.
Recent data shows that the problem worsens in December, driven by a combination of harsh weather, societal expectations, and a collective unwillingness to confront emotional struggles. As noted by experts, this can lead to a dangerous cycle where feelings of loneliness exacerbate societal issues, further alienating individuals.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers including those inspired by the work of Stephanie Cacioppo, emphasize that loneliness can distort perceptions of societal threats, leading to increased reactivity and diminished impulse control. The APA’s findings align with these insights, revealing that those who feel isolated are often more sensitive to the nation’s escalating political and social divisions.
Psychologist Nathaniel R. Strenger, a licensed professional and past president of the Dallas Society for Psychoanalytic Psychology, advocates for proactive measures to combat loneliness. He stresses the importance of reaching out to friends and strangers alike, urging individuals to take action during this critical holiday period. “Look around for shipwrecked souls,” Strenger advises. “Call old friends. Bear strangers well.”
The urgency of the situation is compounded by the upcoming political climate, with midterm elections and contentious court decisions on the horizon. Engaging with one another now could pave the way for a more robust community response, fostering connections that are vital in times of crisis.
This holiday season, it is imperative to remember that acts of kindness can change lives. Strenger encourages everyone to embrace opportunities for connection, stating, “If the dull pangs of loneliness ache you, fear not the words, ‘Can I join?'”
As we move deeper into December, let this be a call to action: make the effort to connect, not just during the holidays, but consistently throughout the year. The need for community and support has never been greater, and your small actions can create a ripple effect of hope and connection.
In the words of the Psalmist, “God sets the lonely in families.” Let us heed this call to foster a sense of belonging, recognizing that even the smallest gestures can have profound impacts on those around us. Together, we can combat the pervasive loneliness that threatens not just our well-being, but the fabric of our society.
