Steps to Over-coming Loneliness

Are you living a lonely life? 

We experience loneliness for a number of reasons, such as isolation or social awkwardness.  Everyone experience loneliness at some point in their live; but fortunately for us, there are a number of ways to overcome loneliness.

Loneliness is many-sided and often involves unpleasant emotional response to isolation or lack of companionship.  Loneliness can be felt even when you are surrounded by people who love you.  The cause of loneliness varies which could include social, mental, emotional, and spiritual factors.  Research has shown that loneliness is widely prevalent throughout society among people in marriages, relationships, families and successful careers.

Understand that we all get lonely

Experiencing loneliness does not mean there is something wrong with you.  We are all prone to loneliness during major life transitions whether it’s losing something or someone.  We will need to explore new alternatives and things to help us during this period.

Know the difference between loneliness and solitude

Loneliness is when you are not happy to be alone, and solitude is when you are happy to be alone.  If you are someone who is happy to be alone then you may be experiencing solitude and need to get professional help. 

Over-coming Loneliness

Get involved with an online community

This is a creative way to share your experiences and express your thoughts. Online forums often allow you to ask questions and share with others who are going through similar situations.  You also have the opportunity to help others. 

• Communicate regularly with the people you know
• Get involved in with a group, be active
• Volunteer in your community
• Take a class
• Spend time with your family 

Don’t have a pity party; and persistently dwell on how alone you feel, or how bad things are right now.  Instead do something, anything to get your mind off your current situation.  Take a walk, read a book or get a pet.

We need to acknowledge that we could be in a crowd and still be lonely.  You can have a lot of family, and friends and still find it difficult to connect with the people around you.  If you are having this kind of experience you may need to seek professional counseling.

Knowing who you are, and loving yourself is very important to you overcoming loneliness.  Learn to be happy with yourself.  When you love/like who you are it shows.  Do for yourself what others may not, and that is to appreciate that you are wonderfully made and love you!!!!