What Is Loneliness, And How Can A Person Cope With It?
Although people may experience temporary loneliness, long-term or severe loneliness can have negative effects on health and well-being.
Loneliness can affect people of all ages. Seeking support and connection can help you overcome feelings of loneliness.
People may feel lonely when they are with others, alone, or in certain situations.
This article explores the types and causes of loneliness and explains how to seek help.
About loneliness
The American Psychological Association defines loneliness as a perceived condition that causes discomfort or discomfort from being alone.
People can suffer from emotional distress when their natural needs for companionship and intimacy are not met.
Loneliness can occur when a person feels a gap between the amount or quality of relationships they desire and the social connections they actually have.
Some psychologists believe that loneliness is part of the human condition and, while painful, can bring about rebirth and increased self-awareness.
According to the Campaign to End Loneliness, there are different types of loneliness.
- Emotional loneliness: lack of meaningful relationships
- Social loneliness: a perceived lack of quality social connections
- Existential loneliness: a deep sense of disconnection from others and the world
- Temporary loneliness: loneliness that comes and goes
- Situational loneliness: Loneliness that only occurs during specific times such as holidays
- Chronic loneliness: a feeling of loneliness that a person feels most or all of the time
How is loneliness different from being alone or in solitude?
While loneliness is the physical state of being alone, loneliness is the perceived state of being alone that causes emotional discomfort and stress.
Being alone doesn’t necessarily mean loneliness. Some people may be content with just being with themselves, while others may feel lonely even when they are with others.
In a 2021 study, researchers collected information about their experiences of loneliness from 2,035 people, ranging from teenagers to older adults. Participants reported positive experiences related to loneliness, including feelings of connectedness, reduced pressure, and peace.
A 2019 study suggests that a person’s motivation to be alone may determine whether they feel positive or negative emotions when they are alone.
Choosing solitude to enjoy activities alone can be beneficial, but choosing solitude to not spend time with others can be a negative experience.
What are the signs a person might be lonely?
Experiencing loneliness can make a person feel:
- disconnected from other people
- isolated from other people
- as though nobody understands them
- as though they have nobody to turn to or talk with
- sad
Physical symptoms may include changes in:
- focus or concentration
- appetite
- sleep
- energy levels
Ways of managing loneliness
Tips for coping with loneliness include
- Reach out to friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers to start a conversation
- Find a community or support group online or use social media to connect with like-minded people
- Take care of yourself and focus on activities you enjoy
- Have positive self-talk and recognize your personal successes and good qualities
- Volunteer in your community or with a local organization
- Talk to a health professional about your feelings of loneliness
Summary
Loneliness is a perceived state of being alone that causes emotional discomfort and distress. Chronic loneliness can lead to mental and physical health problems. Connecting with others and practicing self-care can also help. People can seek help for loneliness by talking to a health professional.
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