How to Cope When Feeling Isolated
Published on 11th April, 2024
Loneliness is a universal human experience, characterized by feelings of isolation or disconnection from others. It can arise from various factors, such as emotional, social, or existential loneliness. Understanding these types and their triggers is essential in combating feelings of isolation.
Emotional loneliness arises from the absence of a close confidant or intimate partner. This type reflects lacking meaningful emotional connections even if other social relationships exist. For example, a person may feel emotionally lonely despite knowing many people if they don’t have someone trustworthy to share their feelings with.
Social loneliness is triggered by a lack of a broader social network or circle such as friends, family, or community groups. This type reflects insufficient quantity or diversity of social connections, leading to feelings of isolation.
Existential loneliness is a deeper, more profound feeling of isolation from life itself. It is often linked with depression, crises of meaning, or a sense of being fundamentally separated from others and the world.
Common triggers for loneliness across types include loss or absence of intimate relationships, lack of broader social interactions or community involvement, physical or emotional abuse, physical separation, health issues, psychological conditions, existential crises, and more.
Fortunately, there are several strategies to help combat loneliness and foster connections.
One such strategy is to engage in physical activities like walking, especially in nature. This simple action can provide immediate relief by changing environment and potentially leading to casual social interactions. Being outdoors and interacting with others can foster a sense of connection with the world around you.
Another effective method is to seek professional help, such as therapy or counseling. This can be vital to understanding and overcoming feelings of loneliness that feel overwhelming and persistent.
Keeping a gratitude journal or reflecting on things you're thankful for each day can enhance your well-being and sense of connectedness. Practising gratitude can significantly alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation by cultivating a mindset of positivity and contentment.
Starting a new hobby can provide a sense of achievement and joy, and open opportunities to meet others with similar interests. Immersing oneself in hobbies or interests can provide distraction and open opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.
Practising self-love is one of the most empowering things to do when feeling lonely. Creating a nurturing relationship with yourself can fill the void of isolation.
Connecting with friends or family can provide comfort, support, and companionship, reducing feelings of isolation. Reading a book can be an excellent way to escape loneliness and connect with characters and stories.
Joining a walking group can give a sense of community and belonging, enhancing one's emotional well-being. Performing an act of kindness can create a sense of connection and purpose, boosting mood and self-esteem. Joining a club or group that aligns with your interests or values can introduce you to like-minded individuals and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Developing a plan to cope with loneliness can make a significant difference in terms of mental and emotional well-being. Acknowledging and accepting feelings of loneliness is the first step towards addressing them.
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[2] Cacioppo, J. T., Hawkley, L. C., & Thisted, R. A. (2009). Loneliness: A social and biological based construct related to disease and mortality. American Psychologist, 64(5), 493.
[3] Perlman, D., & Peplau, L. A. (1981). Loneliness: A sourcebook of current theory, research, and therapy. Plenum Press.
[4] Peplau, L. A., & Perlman, D. (2006). Loneliness: A sourcebook of current theory, research, and therapy (2nd ed.). Routledge.
[5] Valtorta, N., Kanaan, M., Gilbody, S., & Ferrari, A. (2016). The association between loneliness and mortality in high-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. The Lancet, 387(10022), 855-866.
- Psychic readings might not exactly combat loneliness, but they could potentially provide insights about one's emotional state and offer guidance for personal growth, helping individuals deal with feelings of isolation.
- In the realm of education and self-development, understanding the science behind mental health and well-being could provide valuable knowledge about the triggers of loneliness, aiding in its prevention and management.
- Engaging in health-and-wellness activities like yoga or meditation, in addition to the physical activities and hobbies mentioned earlier, could further contribute to reducing stress, promoting mental clarity, and fostering a greater sense of personal growth and connection with oneself, potentially helping combat feelings of loneliness.
