5 Ways to Ease Loneliness
Despite being more connected than ever, thanks to mobile phones and social media, we’ve never been lonelier either.
According to a 2019 survey in the United States, one in five Millennials say they don’t have a single friend. And nearly one in three say they feel lonely often or all the time. The numbers are a little less dire for Gen X and Baby Boomers, but still concerning. In 2018, Britain appointed a Minister for Loneliness due to growing evidence of links between loneliness, depression and poor physical health.
Reasons for what some are calling an epidemic of loneliness are many and Covid-19 only made things worse.
In my clinical practice, loneliness often comes up. It may not be the reason the person has come in for counselling but it’s often lurking in the background, making it harder to cope with whatever else is going on.
Here are five possible ways to reduce feelings of loneliness:
Firstly, remember that you’re not alone in feeling lonely. Everyone feels lonely some of the time. That is not to be dismissive of this potentially serious issue but there is some solace in knowing that you are not the only one.
Talk with strangers. This may sound odd and even uncomfortable, but research shows that having small, casual interactions with acquaintances and strangers can make you feel better.
Limit your time on social media. On the one hand social media and the Internet can help us keep in touch with friends and family but it can also suck us into negative comparisons with others, making us feel isolated, depressed and not good enough.
Join a real-life group activity. According to a 2011 study, active participation in group activities that are social or supportive is the most effective at reducing loneliness, notably for seniors. Start small: go to a meal at a community centre or a non-strenuous group exercise class. Look on neighbourhood notice boards or apps for local events such as community walks.
Counselling – Talking with a counsellor can help you explore your feelings of loneliness, understand what might be getting in the way of establishing meaningful connections and develop ways to break your isolation.