This week is Loneliness Awareness Week 2023.
Feeling lonely isn’t a mental health problem. But having a mental health problem can increase feelings of loneliness and being lonely may increase the chance of developing mental health problems. Feeling lonely is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent state.
Here are some tips for dealing with loneliness:
Understand and accept your feelings: Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel lonely at times, and allow yourself to experience and process those emotions without judgment.
Connect with others: Take steps to connect with people. Reach out to friends, family members, or acquaintances and plan activities together. Join social clubs, hobby groups, or volunteer at organisations where you can meet like-minded individuals. Read more about volunteering here.
Strengthen existing relationships: Strengthen your existing relationships by spending quality time with the people you care about. Plan outings, have meaningful conversations, or even set up regular video calls if distance is an issue.
Use technology to your advantage: Take advantage of social media, online communities, and chat platforms to connect with others who share your interests or experiences. Participate in online forums or discussion groups to engage with like-minded individuals.
Pursue hobbies and interests: Engage in activities that you enjoy and that give you a sense of purpose. Join a sports team, take up a new hobby, or enrol in a class. This can provide opportunities to meet new people who share your interests.
Practice self-care: Focus on self-care and prioritise activities that make you feel good. Engage in regular exercise, eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Seek help if needed: If your feelings of loneliness persist or become overwhelming, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and tools to help you cope with loneliness. For more information on how we can help, click here.
Be patient and kind to yourself: Overcoming loneliness takes time, so be patient with yourself throughout the process. Treat yourself with
If you need support, please get in touch. Call 01482 240133 or email [email protected].
