Bank Holidays may not be easy if you are not in contact with your family and your friends are busy. Here are some practical ways you can make the bank holiday a little easier on yourself:
Reframe The Day:
Instead of thinking of it as “a day off meant for family/friends,” see it as your bonus day. That shift can take some of the sting out of it.
Set a small theme for the day (e.g., “treat myself day,” “creative project day,” or “nature day”).
Build In structure
Plan out a loose schedule so the day doesn’t feel like an empty block of time.
Include one thing that gives you pleasure (a nice meal, a favourite film, a hobby) and one thing that brings a sense of accomplishment (tidying a space, finishing a book, learning something).
Connect, Even lightly
If possible, arrange a short call or video chat with a friend, relative, or even a helpline/chat service. Even 10 minutes can shift the mood.
Message a friend even if they may not have time to message you back.
Some local community centres, and usually always cafés stay open and some may even host low-key events.
Be Gentle With Yourself
It’s okay to acknowledge that bank holidays can sting. Naming the feeling without judgment can reduce its power.
Remind yourself: many people quietly struggle with this too — you’re not alone in feeling alone.