Volume 6 • 2019 • Issue 8

I ssues and P eople The holiday season can be a lonely time—especially for people who live far away or are estranged from their families, going through a relationship breakup, grieving or living alone. For those who don’t celebrate the holidays, the barrage of music, images, television programs and traditions can make them feel isolated and excluded. The increased intensity of loneliness and social isolation at this time can have a negative effect on both our physical and mental health. Loneliness and well-being Lonely or socially isolated people are at a greater risk for depression, anxiety and, when older, dementia. Loneliness can also affect the immune system, making us more susceptible to illness and contributing to the development of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Unfortunately, when we’re sad or lonely, we often withdraw and avoid social interactions and that can make us feel even more disconnected from the world. We need to combat loneliness head-on. That’s not always easy but here are some ideas to help change the holiday season and the rest of your year. ò Be realistic. It’s hard for anyone to not be affected by the holiday hype. Television, movies, magazines, and social media are full of images of The Members’ Assistance Program (MAP) is sponsored by CDSPI and provides confidential short-term counselling support, professional guidance, resources and referrals for dentists, dental office staff and immediate family members. MAP services are complimentary and accessible 24/7/365. Contact MAP at 1.844.578.4040 or visit their website at www.workhealthlife.com . MAP is operated by Shepell, the largest Canadian-based Employee and Family Assistance provider in the country. Available services vary by region. Use of MAP services is completely confidential within the limits of the law. • Healthy Workplace Series • LONELINESS and the Holidays The following article is adapted and reprinted with permission from the Morneau Shepell website www.workhealthlife.com Visit workhealthlife.com for more resources. 31 Issue 8 | 2019 |