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Survey Reveals Need for ‘Alone Time’ as Essential for Mental Health During the Holidays

The holiday season brings with it both charm and chaos in equal measure. While many relish the festivities, others find the season overwhelming, highlighting the importance of self-care amidst the holiday hustle. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Centre and College of Medicine commissioned a recent survey, which reveals that 56% of Americans consider alone time crucial for their mental health, yet 46% feel they lack sufficient solitude during the holidays.

Dr. Sophie Lazarus, a clinical psychologist specializing in mindfulness and mental health at Ohio State, emphasized the importance of taking breaks.  “By taking a brief pause alone, our nervous system can settle, our mind can settle, our body can settle. And I think that can be important. We know that chronic stress is not good for us,” she said. 

The fast-paced nature of the holiday season often glorifies busyness, making it difficult to carve out personal time. Dr. Lazarus suggests that even small changes can make a difference. "It’s important to make yourself a priority, and this can be accomplished by adding something simple to your routine that doesn’t require a large chunk of time or effort,” she advised. 

To cultivate a deeper connection with oneself, incorporating alone time into daily life is essential. Dr. Lazarus suggests implementing a few simple yet effective strategies to achieve this. Firstly, it's crucial to limit distractions, such as putting your phone in a separate room, to avoid the constant pull of notifications and allow focus on personal well-being. Even brief moments of solitude, like taking micro-breaks, can provide a much-needed mental reset—whether it's sitting alone in the car before heading into a busy household or stealing a few minutes of quiet time during a chaotic day. Ultimately, the key to reaping the benefits of alone time lies in tailoring it to individual needs—recognizing that one size doesn't fit everyone. By being flexible and finding a balance that works, individuals can personalize their moments of solitude and genuinely serve their mental health needs. 

People often misunderstand alone time as selfishness. Dr. Lazarus dispels this notion, emphasizing that momentarily prioritizing oneself does not equate to neglecting others.  “It’s important to remember that just because you’re prioritizing yourself at this moment doesn’t mean that you’re selfish,” she explained. 

Interestingly, alone time doesn’t necessarily mean isolation. It could involve engaging in solo activities in social settings, like visiting a coffee shop or a park, while avoiding social performance or interaction. “It can also be this absence of having to perform or interact socially in a more direct way,” she added. 

SSRS conducted the survey on its Opinion Panel Omnibus platform from October 4-7, 2024, with 1,004 respondents via web and telephone. The margin of error is ±3.5 percentage points, ensuring a reliable representation of U.S. adults aged 18 and older. 

The findings align with growing awareness of mental health, particularly during high-stress periods. They underscore a universal need for balance and a reminder that solitude is not a luxury but a necessity for maintaining well-being. 

Finding moments of solitude becomes an act of self-preservation in a society that celebrates productivity and connectivity. For many, the survey validates their need to step back during the festive season to recharge mentally and emotionally. 

Dr. Lazarus’s approach, rooted in mindfulness and practical adaptability, provides a framework for navigating the holidays without compromising mental health. Her advice resonates with those striving to balance the joy of the season with their personal well-being. 

The survey serves as a timely reminder of the importance of alone time, not only as a stress relief tool but as a cornerstone of mental health. As the holidays bring both joy and challenges, taking a few minutes to pause and reset can make the season more enjoyable and less overwhelming.


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