Effective strategies for working through feelings of loneliness
| Let's take five minutes to see this week in a new light. | | | Loneliness is a universal emotion that we all experience either occasionally or on a rolling basis. While the feeling might be driven by physical isolation, it's more often the result of not feeling emotionally and mentally connected with others despite craving those close bonds. Ongoing loneliness can affect your well-being, and can even turn into a cyclical issue that's difficult to break. | | | If loneliness is affecting your well-being, there are things that you can do that can help you form new connections and find the social support that you need." | | Feeling lonely can negatively impact your physical and mental well-being. Research tells us that people with ongoing feelings of loneliness may be more prone to stress, antisocial behavior, depression, and suicide. They may also be more likely to misuse drugs and alcohol.
Physically, loneliness can impact your brain function, cause poor decision making, affect memory and learning, and result in Alzheimer's progression. It's also associated with higher instances of cardiovascular disease and stroke. | | Overcoming loneliness requires steadfast work, but the results are worth the sometimes uncomfortable effort. Here are some effective strategies for working through feelings of loneliness.
- Acknowledge It: The first step is recognizing that you're lonely. Doing so can be challenging, but it also allows room to take steps that pull you out of a loneliness cycle.
- Reach Out to People You Know: Take advantage of the connections you've built in the past. Reach out to see how old friends are doing and try to make plans to see each other. Even explaining that you'd like to be more socially involved is a step toward receiving invitations to spend time with others.
- Put Yourself in New Situations: Along with re-connecting with others, put yourself in situations where you're apt to make new friends. Join a local group or club, volunteer, go out with colleagues after work, or get involved with the community.
- Be Patient and Kind to Yourself: An overnight change isn't likely, so be patient and kind to yourself as you put yourself in vulnerable situations. Nurture your body and mind via good food, exercise, meditation, and self affirmation.
- Consider Professional Help: Reaching out for guidance from a professional is a sign of courage and determination. Speaking with a therapist can help you pinpoint why you feel lonely and allow you to develop effective strategies you can carry for the rest of your life.
| | Ways to Stay Positive This Week | | | Ways to Nurture Your Mind and Body | Take 10 minutes to write down three ways you can cut through feelings of loneliness beginning this week. Maybe it's reaching out to a specific friend you've missed, connecting with a family member in a more meaningful way, or looking into a volunteer opportunity. Choose at least one and act on it today. | | | |
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