During the pandemic, many of us were forced to reckon with what some deal with throughout the year. Loneliness. With gatherings and good tidings plastered all over social media, the absence of connection can be felt acutely. Let's try and vanquish those holiday blues!

Everyone's needs are different and what works for some won't work for others. So please don't feel I'm being insensitive by including advice that isn't applicable to you—just try what you feel might help without feeling pressured. Right, here's 8 tips to bring you some cheer!

1. Reach out to friends and family members, and arrange virtual or in-person gatherings. If you're anything like me (and by that, I mean hopelessly introverted!) stepping out of your shell and planning get-togethers isn't the most attractive proposition.

However, experience has taught me that, when I do take the plunge into the social medley, I'm nearly always grateful I did. The fact is that weneed social interaction. It nourishes us, sustains us, and has a hugely positive impact on our wellbeing.

2. Volunteer your time with a charity. The act of giving shouldn't be underestimated. To do something good for another person and expect nothing in return can increase your happiness and sense of fullfillment; most importantly, it helps to make the world a better place.

When volunteering, you often end up connecting with wonderful, kind people who share your interests. As you can imagine, many you meet at such functions understand the pangs of loneliness, the need everyone has for human contact, and how to provide it.

3. Adopt a pet or offer to look after one. The compassion and companionship gained from animal friends (especially dogs) is something that needs to be experienced by everyone. There are few better cures for loneliness or ways to take your mind off your troubles.

Obviously, adopting or buying a pet is a huge commitment that not all can make. However, there are plenty of people who need someone to dog-sit or walk their furry family members. This is also a perfect way for those who suffer from social anxiety to experience loving connection.

4. Take a walk and strike up a conversation with someone you meet along the way. If your friends and family live far away, or for whatever reason you can't link up with them, why not take a stroll and chew the cud with those you bump into?

But ave no fear introverts!

There are nifty ways to get the conversation flowing. Speaking as an inordinately shy person, I'd never ordinarily dream of speaking to a stranger, but when I was walking my dog, I found I ended up speaking to almost everyone I met. Babies, kids, and dogs are great ice-breakers.