Humans are a social bunch – scientists have concluded that it is our relationships with other people that give us the greatest happiness. It makes sense, then, that loneliness can make us feel so deeply sad. If you have experienced loneliness, you know that it isn’t as simple as just being alone. It is a sadness that comes when our social needs aren’t met. In other words, loneliness is a longing for connection, community and intimacy.

Remember: You are never alone. If you’re struggling and feel like you have no-one to turn to, our friendly helpline team are available 24 hours a day, free of charge. Scroll down for details and give us a call. We can help.

Common Causes

Loneliness can show up for very different reasons.

Bereavement
A break-up
Moving away
Changing jobs
Becoming a parent
Struggling with your physical or mental health
Experiencing discrimination
Lack of connection or understanding

Cost of Living

You might normally be a sociable person, but you’re starting to feel the pinch financially. It can be so hard to keep our heads above water in our day-to-day lives. Bills keep coming in, the weekly shop is getting more expensive and going out costs a small fortune. If the idea of socialising has you panicking about money and you’re saying no every time, it’s easy for loneliness to creep in.

Mental Health and Loneliness

When you are feeling depressed, anxious or stressed, you might withdraw from socialising or seeking support. This can start a damaging cycle that results in isolation and loneliness, further damaging your mental health. This is a tough cycle to break, but it’s important to share how you feel with your loved ones. A strong support system can help you feel understood, and less alone in your struggle.

Click for more support on mental health.

Ways to feel connected

Don’t be embarrassed that you’re feeling lonely, it doesn’t need to be a secret. Try being open about how you’re feeling and talk it through with loved ones. If you don’t feel like you have anyone to say it to, write it out in a diary.

Keep in Touch

It sounds obvious doesn’t it? But a simple way to combat loneliness is to have regular calls with friends or family. This is a simple way to top up your social battery, even when you don’t feel like socialising in person. If anxiety makes phone calls difficult, try texts instead.

do things you love

If you’re in a bit of a rut and you don’t feel like you have friends or family to lean on, get out and do the things you love. Maybe you could join a running club, a pool league, or a bunch of cold swimmers. Not only will this boost your mood, but you might just find a sense of community too.

help people

Volunteering to help people in the community or surprising someone with an act of kindness can boost our feeling of connection and improve our wellbeing. When you make the outer world a better place, your personal world is bound to improve too!