Loneliness can be really hard to navigate, especially if you’re not used to feeling alone or isolated. If you’re unsure of how to deal with this uncomfortable feeling, here are some tips for how to cope in a healthy way.
If you struggle with loneliness, you’re not the only one. We all experience loneliness sometimes, but that certainly doesn’t mean the feelings associated with it are pleasant. If you’re looking for ways to deal with loneliness, here are some tips.
1. Understand that it’s a Feeling
The first lesson to learn about loneliness is that it’s a feeling. You may feel lonely, but you are not truly alone. There are people who care about you and want to get to know you more. Try to keep these positive relationships in mind when you’re feeling lost.
2. Reach Out to Someone
When you’re feeling alone it’s important to reach out to someone. While it might be tempting to isolate yourself, this only perpetuates your feelings that you might be a social outcast, a “loser” or have no friends. Instead, take a risk, give someone a call, initiate a conversation or meet up with a friend. This will help to mitigate some of those negative feelings.
3. Engage in Social Activities
If you find that you feel lonely often, perhaps it’s a good idea to try engaging in more social activities. Join a new club at school, find an extracurricular or try a new sport. All of these are good ways to expand your social circle and surround yourself with others!
4. Be Kind
Being kind to those you encounter is a positive choice that will strengthen your relationships and help you feel more connected to those around you. Even chatting to your neighbours or those you encounter in a coffee shop can help you feel a lot less lonely.
5. Be Aware of Self-Talk
Be particularly cautious when you’re feeling isolated that you steer away from negative self-talk. The fact that you feel lonely is not a reflection of your character or worth. If you find that these thoughts start to pile up, it might be helpful to speak to a mental health professional for more guidance on developing coping mechanisms.
