10 Things to Do if You Are Alone on New Year's Eve, According to a Mental Health Expert

At a time like this, it is best to keep safety as your topmost priority. Would you rather have a night of reckless partying only to spend the first few days of 2021 fighting the virus? Well...

"Being alone is also a state of mind. If you are willing to connect, there are opportunities galore, social media to the rescue, but balance beckons. Nevertheless, if you still happen to be alone, on New Year’s Day, here are a few tips to make it memorable," says Dr Fabian Almeida, consultant psychiatrist, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan.

"Search and select your favourite movies and keep them ready to run as the clock strikes 12. That way you will be in celebrity company, for this very special occasion. Whether its heartwarming romantic movies, comedies or suspense potboilers - take your choice and relish it. Don’t forget the popcorn."

"Set the mood right with a carnival of candles for company...different colours, designs, aromas, and what not! The whole arrangement can make you feel cheerful and uplifted."

"If you are an avid reader, with a collection to match, bring out your most cherished title and authors to accompany you for this New Year’s night. Make it special, by reading your favourite passages from your favourite books- fiction or fantasy, the choice is yours!"

"Make a collection of your favourite photos and clicks, from all of this year or before, and get set to sink into those memories, at your own pace, making you relive every golden moment again!"

"Outline your multi-course meal, right from starters to dessert - make it or outsource it, just set the table right for three…I, ME, MYSELF."

"Make your playlist ready for the New Year celebration - old favourites, new attractions, something stupid, the choice is personal…feel the beat."

"This is especially if you have a weakness for sweets. Get your collection of various sweet from local to global choices, home-made or ordered, you really can't fall short of variety. But this comes strictly after a light dinner!"

"Try and find the different cuddly soft-toys that have been a source of support, love and joy for you all through these years. In fact, they may each have a story to tell, and a memory to hold."

"Spend the New Year’s special moments by writing letters to the ones you value most in your lives, whether they are alive or dead, whether you choose to give it to them or keep it with yourself, this is a catharsis of communication and expression of emotions."

"Spending the last few moments of the passing year and the beginning of the New year, with grateful acknowledgement will set the tone right for a great year ahead. Reading passages from the various books of wisdom can make our today more relevant, emphasizing the need for balanced spiritual nourishment and growth, all through the year."