Sarah Millican’s #joinin returns to Twitter this year

New Twitter research shows the pressure to have a 'perfect' Christmas is mentally exhausting for 58% of people, often leaving them feeling anxious, isolated and lonely.

In contrast, 69% of those surveyed said Twitter helped them feel less isolated by providing amusing content that distracts them, as well as connecting them with family, friends or other individuals who are feeling the same way.

The results come as comedian Sarah Millican confirmed the return of her Christmas Day #joinin initiative, aimed at those who have found themselves alone on the big day.

Launched in 2011, usage of #joinin has more than doubled across the last three Christmas Days (Christmas Day 2014: 12K Tweets, Christmas Day 2015: 14K Tweets, Christmas Day 2016: 26K Tweets).

Samaritans CEO Ruth Sutherland added "Life is tough and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, the festive season can make everything seem worse. #joinin offers that little bit of kindness and human contact to lift your spirits and make you feel less alone. Very much like Samaritans, people are happy just to let you be yourself, show they care, and listen. There are plenty of smiles and laughs too."

To get involved with #joinin this year simply go to Twitter and enter #joinin into the search bar. You can follow Sarah at @SarahMillican75.