Loneliness is feeling sad about being socially disconnected and isolated from people. When you\u2019re going through something very difficult and you wish you had someone to talk to but don\u2019t, you can feel emotionally lonely.<\/p>\n
Most people feel sad, lonely or even depressed from time to time because of life\u2019s challenges and pain from loss and disappointments. But when loneliness becomes overwhelming and lasts for a long period of time, it can take a toll on your physical and emotional health.<\/p>\n
If you or someone you know is feeling lonely, here are ten tips that might help.<\/p>\n
If there ever was a time for you to be kind to yourself and practice self-care, it\u2019s during life\u2019s difficult moments. Give yourself the gift of grace and compassion during challenging times. Acknowledge the positive progress you\u2019re making no matter how small.<\/p>\n
Are you on social media? Or part of a group or faith community? When something nice, good or positive happens share it with them. Or tell a friend. Connect. Share what you\u2019re up to \u2013 share your goals, projects or a new hobby. People care. And most will share a word of support and encouragement and celebrate your wins. But you have to take the lead.<\/p>\n
Nothing beats face-to-face social connection. Meeting for coffee or a quick lunch can keep feelings of loneliness in check. And you\u2019ll see and know that you are not alone.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re the type of person who\u2019s always busy and says \u201cno\u201d when people invite you to do things, they\u2019ll stop inviting you. Make time to see your friends.<\/p>\n
Animal companionship is a great way to relieve loneliness because pets are always glad to see you and are a source of unconditional love. Consider getting a pet if you have the time, ability and resources. If not, perhaps someone you know has a pet you can enjoy occasionally.\u00a0 Animals just have a way of making us feel happy.<\/p>\n
It isn\u2019t easy saying \u201chi\u201d to someone you don\u2019t know. But interacting with people you don\u2019t know can ease feelings of loneliness. \u00a0Be friendly. Smile. Open a door. Give a compliment. Even minimal social interactions are good for your mental health and can ease loneliness.<\/p>\n
There are thousands of groups online. Find one that mirrors your beliefs, lifestyle, and interests. Participate. Start conversations. Learn about in-person events. Network, and be a part of the community.<\/p>\n
Listening to and watching information on a topic of interest can take your mind off your pain and loneliness, especially if the content is geared towards helping you cope and grow with what you\u2019re going through. You\u2019ll be mentally and emotionally stimulated and feel less lonely.<\/p>\n
Few things combat feelings of loneliness than volunteering. Focusing on others is a healthy way to stop focusing on your situation. Making a difference is a great way to feel good about your life and feel less lonely. Plus you\u2019ll make friends and great connections in the process.<\/p>\n
Feeling lonely is tough. It hurts. It\u2019s a horrible feeling. But thinking about it only makes it worse. When you catch yourself thinking about loneliness, remember: being lonely doesn\u2019t mean that people don\u2019t like you or that you don\u2019t have what it takes to be a friend. It won\u2019t be easy but shift your thinking away from the pain to a solution: \u201cI am going to interact with people\u2026I am going to connect socially and be less lonely.\u201d Be positive. Take productive action. You don\u2019t worry or think yourself out of loneliness. You get out of loneliness by taking action.<\/p>\n
So, reach out and connect to people you know and don\u2019t know. Be a friend and be friendly. Take a genuine interest in others and make a difference. You can and will beat loneliness. You are NOT alone. You are amazing and always loved.<\/p>\n
Photo by Tijs van Leur<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/p>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Loneliness is feeling sad about being socially disconnected and isolated from people. When you\u2019re going through something very difficult and you wish you had someone to talk to but don\u2019t, you can feel emotionally lonely. Most people feel sad, lonely or even depressed from time to time because of life\u2019s challenges and pain from loss…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":5608,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[72,1049,1600],"aware":[1752,1755,1753],"class_list":["post-6423","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-all","tag-depression","tag-emotional-health","tag-loneliness","aware-attitude","aware-relationships","aware-wellness"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n