National Cheer Up the Lonely Day

The world is filled with billions of people but it can also be an extremely lonely place. Isolation, sadness, lack of company, distance, loss of friendships or loved ones and other difficulties can turn into a general feeling of loneliness, even in a society that is so “connected” through technology. 

National Cheer Up the Lonely Day is here to provide a reminder that fostering friendship and community can be very simple but can make all the difference in the world to someone who has been feeling lonely.

History of National Cheer Up the Lonely Day

With estimates that up to 60% of people experience chronic loneliness in today’s society, it is vital that people work hard to stay connected to their friends, family members, neighbors and other loved ones. And because loneliness can be an indicator of other mental health issues, reaching out to another person can truly be a life-saver for some. National Cheer Up the Lonely Day offers a delightful opportunity to go about the business of making people happy!

National Cheer Up the Lonely Day was the idea of Francis Pesek of Detroit, Michigan, who wanted to encourage people to show kindness and bring cheer into the world. He was particularly hopeful that people would consider those who are shut into their homes or who are in nursing homes. The day is scheduled to be celebrated each year on this date in memory of Mr. Pesek, as it was his birthday.

How to Celebrate National Cheer Up the Lonely Day

Check out some of these ideas for getting involved with National Cheer Up the Lonely Day:

Be a Bright Spot

Just about anyone can have bouts of loneliness, but people in certain situations may be more prone to struggle with this. People who are feeling lonely may not be able to articulate it, but that’s okay. National Cheer Up the Lonely Day is a time to consider the people in your sphere who may need a bit of a bright spot in their lives, including some of these possibilities:

• A grandparent or elderly neighbor who doesn’t get out much
• A coworker or friend who has lost a spouse and now lives alone
• A friend who works from home a large percentage of the time
• Just about anyone who shows signs that they may be feeling distant or stuck

This is a special day to keep an eye out and try to do something for them, like send a card, make a phone call, pop by with flowers, take them out for a coffee, invite them to take a walk, or do some other small gesture that can help provide company and perhaps ease the loneliness, at least for a moment.

Listen to a Cheery Playlist

Take some time to make, and then share, a playlist in celebration of National Cheer Up the Lonely Day. Place some favorite peppy, cheerful songs on the list, or get started with some of these:

• Happy by Pharrell Williams (2014)
• Wake Up Little Susie by The Everly Brothers (1957)
• Do You Believe in Magic by Lovin’ Spoonful (1965)
• You’re the One That I Want by Olivia Newton John (1978)