The holiday season is here!! Our family enjoys lots of time together celebrating the joys of the season. We are truly thankful for all the blessings we share. This year is even more special as my two oldest grandsons prepare to marry, family is expanding and the future looks bright. My daughter told me the other day that Miah, the youngest grandson has decided that with all the talk of weddings that he is ready to get married also; his mom has convinced him that you must graduate from college first, so she has gained a little reprieve. This did remind me that everyone, even individuals with special needs, long for companionship and love. My grandsons have the privilege of a family that loves them and spends every possible moment with them, some of the individuals we serve are not as fortunate.
Loneliness is defined as sadness because one has no friends or company, isolation; but loneliness can occur even when people are around. We have all experienced the one client that doesn’t have family around to go visit, when everyone else is off spending time away. It is important to remember that loneliness can manifest in negative behaviors or even physical illness. Help individuals in your care to feel included and wanted during this holiday season, understanding it might not be so joyous for everyone.
Randel C. Goad – Mandt Faculty Supervisor
