Photo: getty
It doesn't need to be so overwhelming.
By Moira Hutchison — Written on Aug 20, 2019
At some point, most of us have experienced a sense of loneliness in one way or another. This is a natural part of life. But sometimes, that sense of being alone can feel overwhelming.
If you find yourself feeling this way often, you might want to consider making some lifestyle changes. Boosting social contacts in your daily life, having favorite alone-time activities, and getting out and about are a few methods that can help you learn how to deal with loneliness.
Try these techniques to banish your loneliness and start feeling happy again.
1. Call somebody.
It's hard to feel truly lonely when you're talking with someone. Make a point of reaching out to others in some way at least once a day. Another person is as close as your phone.
Hearing a warm, friendly voice is encouraging when you feel lonely. Plus, finding out about a close friend or family member's everyday life is a wonderful diversion.
2. Invite someone you care about to coffee, lunch or dinner.
Making such a date provides something for you to look forward to. Plus, spending time with loved ones is the best medicine for fighting loneliness.
3. Join a club or group.
Perhaps you're feeling lonely because you live a solitary lifestyle. Try joining a group or club of people who engage in activities you already enjoy.
Consider a book discussion group if you love to read, or a bird watching club if you enjoy nature and birds. Your goal is to have consistent contact with others, even if it's only once or twice a week.
4. Make a list of activities you like to do when you're home alone.
Engaging in a favorite hobby or activity can bring you joy and help you deal with loneliness. Make a conscious decision to take part in at least two of those pursuits each day.
5. Find a home project.
Refresh an area of your house by painting, re-arranging furniture, or creating a small sanctuary space that brings you joy. This will lift your spirits.
6. Get out of the house.
Take a walk. Go for a jog. Take a drive. Go window-shopping. When you do these activities, you'll most likely come into contact with other people, even if it's just to say, "Hi."
7. Exercise regularly.
The comforting ritual of taking a walk each morning or doing your aerobics DVD each afternoon after lunch can help to keep your spirits up.
8. Think positive.
Thinking positively goes a long way toward coping with any challenges in life. Remind yourself that you'll get through this difficult experience and come out feeling better than ever. Reflect on other challenges you've successfully made it through.
9. Remind yourself that, like most things, this experience is temporary.
Loneliness is something that you can move through and resolve. Just remember that.
10. Volunteer to help others.
A wonderful way to make new friends, learn new skills and make a difference in another person's life is to volunteer. Your choices are numerous, from delivering flowers and newspapers to patients in hospitals to stuffing and mailing envelopes for a social service organization.
11. If your loneliness isn't resolved in a reasonable period of time, seek professional help.
Call a coach or therapist to speak individually about anything that's troubling you. Try attending a therapeutic support group.
More for You:
Moira Hutchison is a Mindfulness Coach, Energy Healer, and Hypnotherapist at Wellness With Moira.