Loneliness can be a painful and isolating feeling, but there are many strategies that you can use to alleviate these feelings. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or trying to make more lasting changes in your life, there are plenty of science-backed ways to meet your social needs and feel less lonely.
According to Psychology Today, understanding the nature of loneliness is an important first step. Loneliness is a feeling that our brain creates when aren’t meeting the important human need of social interaction. Loneliness encourages us to enhance our social interactions in the same way that hunger drives us to eat. While this can be beneficial in some ways, loneliness is not a fun emotion to experience. It is important to remember that loneliness is a chemical reaction that can distort your thoughts and make your situation seem worse than it really is.
If you’re feeling lonely, the first thing you should do is get out of the house and engage with others. Staying in your own home all day can deepen your feelings of loneliness, so try setting aside time each day to get out and interact with people in your community. This might mean joining a local club or group, visiting friends or family, attending religious services, volunteering at an organization, or simply going shopping or taking a walk around town.
Other strategies to help with loneliness
If you can’t get out of the house physically, connect with others online (via Verywell Mind). Social media platforms can help you stay in touch with friends and family, and there are also numerous online forums and chatrooms where you can engage in conversations with people who share your interests. You can also make time for hobbies and activities that you enjoy. Doing things that make you happy can help reduce feelings of loneliness, so be sure to set aside time each week to pursue your hobbies and interests. This might include reading, playing sports, listening to music, watching movies, or anything else that brings you joy.
You may also want to consider getting a pet. Pets can provide companionship and unconditional love, both of which can help lessen feelings of loneliness. If you’re not able to have a pet of your own, consider volunteering at a local animal shelter or taking your neighbor’s dog for a walk occasionally. Finally, seek professional help if needed. If you’ve tried all of the above strategies and are still struggling with loneliness, it may be time to seek professional help. A therapist can provide guidance and support as you work through your feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
