Spending Christmas in the hospital. How to deal with loneliness?

It often escape our attention that hospitals are functioning normally during the holiday season. They take in patients and take care of those who need constant care. However, this wonderful time of the year does not time does not spare medical facilities. They are also getting ready for Christmas in order to make these days more pleasant for people staying at the hospitals. The condition of some patients allows them to be released home to spend the holiday at home. However, such situations are exceptions. In many other cases, the patients’ health does not allow them to leave the hospital. What does hospital holidays involve?

Is it necessary for every patient to spend Christmas in the hospital?

In many cases, an observation that would not be possible outside the hospital is necessary. Thanks to the constant care of medical personnel, it is possible to react quickly in the event of disturbing symptoms or deteriorating health. Each patient, if despite the contraindications, wants to leave the hospital, he can do it at his own request. However, if you use this option, you will need to obtain a new referral in order to return to the hospital.

Christmas in the hospital — Christmastime events

In many hospitals, during the holiday season, various attractions are organized to make patients forget at least a little about the fact that they are away from their families. During Christmas, some establishments serve traditional Christmas dishes as meals. Of course, the possibility of their consumption applies to people who have no dietary contraindications. Moreover, preparations for Christmas in the hospital are often similar to those at home. There are, among others, Christmas decorations that give the hospital spaces the right atmosphere.

Christmas in the hospital — how to deal with the feeling of loneliness?

Many patients who spend the holiday season in hospital feel lonely. This applies in particular to people who, for example, are in isolation. Modern technology has given many possibilities to deal with this problem. The simplest of them is a phone call, and a bit more technologically advanced is video transmission. Thanks to these tools, it is possible to meet loved ones without leaving the hospital. It is only a substitute for physical contact and the traditional way of spending holidays, but it allows you to spend the holidays with your family even during your stay in the hospital.

In addition, the time spent in this period in the hospital should be filled with various activities. A great way to break away from reality is to read books, so have a good read on hand. If we have such a possibility, we can also play the film on an electronic device — a mobile or a tablet, of course remembering to put on headphones so as not to disturb other patients. Sometimes, just doing crossword puzzles can help chase away bad thoughts. However, one of the best ways remains to talk — with other patients, staff or a psychologist.

Christmas in the hospital and a family visit

It is some compensation for visits by family members over this particular time. The company of loved ones can give the patient support and motivation, as well as minimize the feeling that he is alone during Christmas. Additionally, you can ask your family to provide you with Christmas treats, provided that they are tailored to the patient's dietary needs. Exceptions, even during this particular period, may contribute to the deterioration of health.