Loneliness
Loneliness is something many people experience at some point in time, and for different reasons. But there are things you can do to feel less lonely and connect with others.
Right now, with the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are feeling more isolated than usual. With social restrictions and the need to stay at home, people may have feelings of loneliness that come and go.
You don’t always have to be alone to feel lonely. Sometimes, you may feel like your close relationships aren’t meeting your current needs, and therefore, you may experience loneliness, isolation, or feelings of being unwanted even if there are people in your social circle.
What causes loneliness?
There are many reasons people can experience loneliness, losing someone you care about, or feeling like you don’t fit in with your social circle. You may also feel like you aren’t getting the quality of support or connection that you want. Maybe you are physically alone and want to be with others.
Having social support helps your wellbeing. People have different types of relationships in their lives – with family, friends, romantic partners, and more. You can have any type of social connections that you want, as long as they feel healthy, positive, and work for you.
Each person also needs different things from social connections in their life. If you are not receiving the level of support or understanding from your social network that you want, you may feel lonely at times.
How can you feel less lonely?
It’s important to remember that even though loneliness can feel very difficult, it is something that can be changed. You are not alone. You can make changes, which over time, can help to shift feelings of loneliness. Learn more about coping with loneliness.
Small steps make a big difference. Staying in touch with others is especially important right now. Connecting to something you find meaningful may also help, such as cultural traditions or spiritual practices (where safe to do so).
Loneliness can be connected to depression, anxiety, and other health challenges. If feelings of loneliness are affecting your life, reach out to a loved one or friend, or talk to a mental health professional.
Call 310 Mental Health Support at 310-6789 (no area code needed) for confidential, toll-free support, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Resources
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HealthLink BC (8-1-1)
Free, reliable non-emergency health information and advice available by phone (8-1-1), online, or mobile app.
HeretoHelp
Online information and resources that helps people live well, prevent and manage mental health and substance use challenges.
BounceBack™
Support for low mood, depression, anxiety, stress, or worry. Talk to a trained coach on the phone and get resources for free.
Mental Health Check-in
This free, anonymous self-assessment tool helps you understand how you are feeling and reflect on your wellbeing.