Our Advice Centre is open today from 10am – 8pm
Loneliness
1st April 2023
What is loneliness?
Loneliness is generally feeling like we have no one there for us, or we don’t have meaningful connections with people, but everyone’s experience will be different. You can be surrounded by friends and family and still feel lonely.
What causes it?
It can be caused by many things, and each person will have a different reason for feeling lonely, but the most common themes are having no one to talk to about things that matter to you.
Does being alone mean being lonely?
No. Every one of us has a social battery, and they all last for different amounts of time. Someone who likes spending more time by themselves, or doesn’t talk as much, isn’t necessarily lonely, they’re just doing what makes them feel comfortable.
What if I feel lonely?
We all feel lonely at some point, but admitting to ourselves and other that we are is the hardest part.
Acknowledging the feeling and accepting that it’s there will help you cope with it and make it easier to get help when you’re ready.
What if I feel lonely?
Talk to someone you trust
This could be a family member, friend, No Limits, or another helpful organisation. Talking about something can take a huge weight off our shoulders and make us feel more in control of the situation.
Do the things you love
Filling your time will help you to feel less lonely, and filling it with things that make you happy will have a positive effect on your overall wellbeing too.
Focus on yourself
Comparing your life to others’ won’t do yours any good. People usually only post the good stuff on social media, so try spending less time on there if it makes you feel low.
Get out and around people
Even if you don’t talk to anyone, just being in places where there’s other people about can help you feel more connected.
Join a class or group
Do this for something you love, or try taking up something new. It’s a great way to meet new people and this can make it easier to chat as you have common interest.
Don’t rush yourself
It might be hard at first, but be proud of yourself for every step you take. That could be talking to someone, looking into classes or groups, or just getting out of the house.
How can I help someone who is lonely?
Loneliness is all about connections, so you can help them by being their connection.
Make time to talk to them, or do something with them in person and if they’re speaking, make sure you really listen to what they’re saying. They might want to open up about an issue, or just want to talk to someone about their passion, but having a meaningful conversation with them can help them feel less alone.
I want to talk to someone
No Limits
You can talk to us in person, on the phone or online. Our youth workers can help you with how your feeling and even get you involved with groups and activities to meet people.
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