You canfeel lonelywhen you’re by yourself or even when youre in a room full of people.
You might also wonder, “Why am I alone?”
While everyone feels lonely at times, being alone too much can negatively affect your physical and emotional health.
Verywell / Josh Seong
Are You Feeling Lonely?
Here are 10 things you’ve got the option to do right away when you feel lonely.
Everyone feels lonely sometimes.
And feeling alone doesnt mean youre a loser and it doesnt mean youre weak.
It just means youre human.
Develop a Plan
Sometimes you should probably solve a problem.
At other times, you’re gonna wanna solve how you feel about the problem.
You might find that talking on the phone helps.
Or, you might invite someone to spend time with you.
If you reach out to people and no one responds, you might feel even lonelier.
You might choose to engage in ahealthy coping strategythat allows you to feel better.
Perhaps you lost touch with your college roommate over the years.
Or maybe you have a cousin that you just dont talk to very often.
You might reach out and see how theyre doing.
Talk about how youve missed being able to catch up and say that youd like to reconnect.
It’s okay to each out to people over social media or text message to start.
Connecting face-to-face might help alleviate your loneliness more than messaging.
Look for community activities that might be a good fit for you.
Attend an event and make it a priority to talk to several people.
Itll help you understand how other people think and it can help you feel more connected.
You might want to read a book you wouldnt normally reach for sometimes, too.
you could find people with similar interests, problems, and goals with a few clicks of a button.
It also might open up doors to meeting new people.
Sign up for a cooking class or take karate.
Or look for an online course you’re able to take.
Websites likeUdemyoffer affordable courses in subjects ranging from fitness to graphic design.
Engage in a Hobby
Creative outlets can boost your mood and help you live in the moment.
If you donthave any hobbies, make it a priority to find one.
Experiment with different activities, from fishing to pottery, until you discover things that you love.
Perform an Act of Kindness
Doing something nice for other people can help you feel better.
It may also help you feel more connected to the community.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Being alone too much is also linked with an increased risk of suicide.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Exploring different ways to cope and reaching out for professional assistance can help you feel more connected.
It isn’t unusual to be alone and feel that you have few or no close friends.
Solitude can be a good thing when it’s something you enjoy.
2020;20(4):3513-3516. doi:10.3892/etm.2020.9014
YouGov.Millennials are the loneliest generation.
