7 Tips to Help Manage Loneliness

From time to time we all experience periods of loneliness, but when loneliness is severe or lasts a long time, this can have a deeply negative affect on our mental health. Being lonely for too long can lead to a negative spiral where loneliness makes it harder to connect, which leads to people being afraid of social situations, meaning it is harder to find joy in life and escape negative thoughts.

Why do we experience loneliness?

Humans possess an innate desire for personal connections and a sense of belonging, a fundamental quality rooted in our history since ancient times. This longing for connection has played a pivotal role in our evolution and advancement as a species. Initially, individuals had to fend for themselves without the safety net of social groups, making them susceptible to risks and isolation. Connectivity was not merely about group membership but a matter of survival, ensuring access to essentials like food, water, and medicine through social bonds.

Today, the idea of navigating life alone, whether in childhood or adulthood, unsettles most people. The relationship between survival and solitude has transformed from fulfilling physical needs to encompass emotional solace and social welfare. Psychologists and sociologists both concur that humans are inherently driven by social ties and the aspiration to be part of something greater. Studies indicate that our intrinsic need for attachment propels us to seek connections with others from a young age, such as infants reaching out to caregivers for their necessities.

The fear of isolation and the pursuit of healthy bonds are deeply ingrained in human nature and personal growth. Loneliness and attachment are crucial to our development and surpassing our boundaries. Without support, establishing meaningful connections and cultivating resilience can be challenging. Instances of neglect or seclusion underscore the adverse effects of lacking supportive relationships on an individual's well-being and progress. Overcoming persistent loneliness often involves recognizing the need for assistance and fostering positive relationships. By nurturing connections with empathetic individuals, we can heal and surpass initial feelings of loneliness. Ultimately, the ability to combat loneliness hinges on nurturing unity and fostering supportive relationships with others.

Whose at greater risk for experiencing severe loneliness

• Widows / widowers
• Those currently unemployed
• Those living alone
• Single individuals
• Those with long-term health conditions / medical disabilities
• Those struggling with mental illness or mental health disorders
• Those living with PTSD or Trauma
• Those living in rented accommodation
• Anyone between 16 and 26 years old
• Anyone retired or over age 65+
• Caregivers
• Immigrants,  Newcomers, and Refugees
• Members of marginalized or discriminated groups
• LGBTQIA2S+

How to cope with difficult loneliness:

Navigating the lonely road can be tough, but fear not! There are ways to tackle it head-on, dodging those pesky negative vibes and mental hiccups that often tag along with loneliness.

Here are a few of those ideas:

1. Dive into fun activities like a hobby or tidying up to keep boredom at bay!
2. Get your brain buzzing with podcasts or dive into a new course!
3. Break a sweat - even a simple stroll in the park works wonders!
4. Connect with folks you meet daily - even a chat with the delivery person counts!
5. Spread good vibes on social media!
6. Join digital tribes that match your interests!
7. Have a heart-to-heart with a mental health pro - from counselling to therapy, they've got your back!