Breaking the Lonely Cycle: 7 Strategies to Find Connection
Struggling with Solitude: 8 Straightforward Methods for Alleviating Feelings of Desolation
Us humans are social critters at heart. While it's normal to feel lonely every now and then, we truly flourish in the company of others. But when we find ourselves alone, disconnected and cut off from society, it can wreak havoc on our mental and physical wellbeing, jacking up stress levels, triggering anxiety and depression, and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
And let's face it, loneliness seems to be a problem we've all dealt (or are dealing) with at some point. Whether you're quarantining away from loved ones for health reasons, moving to a new city for work, grieving the loss of a loved one, or going through a breakup, you know the drill. That hollow, isolating feeling of being socially disconnected.
But don't worry, fam. We've got your back. With these 7 strategies, you can beat loneliness and strengthen those connections with others. Let's dive in!
1. Get creative with staying in touch:
Sure, face-to-face interactions give your body a boost of happy hormones, but sometimes it ain't always possible. Whether you're traveling for work, live far away, or are stuck apart for another reason, there are other ways to stay connected and avoid feeling isolated. Slide into video chats with your loved ones using platforms such as Zoom (yes, pandemic or not), organize group hangouts with friends to play games, watch sports together, or have a virtual happy hour. Even schedule meetings or lunch breaks with your co-workers if you're WFH. And don't forget about webinars and online tutorials!
If video calls ain't your thing, pick up the phone and call your pals. Text first if you're shy, or better yet, schedule regular weekly sessions to talk on the phone. And if you're feeling extra sentimental, bust out the pen and paper to write a letter or postcard. Nothing says "I care" like a little handwritten note!
Pro Tip:
Connect with a licensed therapist online with BetterHelp. They can help with dealing with all things loneliness, depression, anxiety and more. Get matched now!
2. Join online and offline communities:
Making connections doesn't have to be limited to your close friends and family. Even talking to strangers can help to combat loneliness and break the cycle of isolation. You never know, you might just make lifelong friends as you branch out and connect with people in online or offline spaces.
Find like-minded people with similar hobbies and interests using platforms like meetup.com. Attend peer support meetings (like AA or Weight Watchers) to improve your health, join book clubs (online or in-person), or participate in social media groups and forums focused on topics that rock your world. Dabble in online multiplayer games or fantasy sports leagues, or mix it up with a dating app if you're single (or use a live video chat app if you're not).
3. Help others:
Not only does helping others feel good for the person in need, but it can also benefit you in more ways than one. Volunteer for a cause that's near and dear to your heart, whether it's political activism, animal rescue, or feeding the homeless. And if you're housebound, there are still ways to help, like making calls or sending emails. Run errands for a neighbor in need, or become a mentor and pass down valuable skills or knowledge you possess.
4. Get outside:
If you're working from home, filling your days with the same four walls can feel suffocating. Even if you commute, it's easy to stick to a routine that only includes traveling to and from work. Dedicate a little time each day to enjoy the great outdoors, and maybe even meet new people along the way.
Take a stroll around your neighborhood, exploring new places and meeting new folks. Be a tourist in your own town and visit things you've never seen before, or hit up local events like concerts, sports events, or open mic nights. Join a book club or start snapping photos of interesting sights—there's beauty everywhere, even in the mundane!
5. Travel (virtually):
Financial instability and travel restrictions got you down? Don't worry! You can still experience some adventurous vibes from the comfort of your home. Recreate a dream trip you've always wanted to take by delving into guidebooks, watching virtual tours of museums, zoos, and other tourist attractions, or shopping for local delicacies at your local grocery store.
Take a virtual vacation and visit different places around the world, explore cities by foot or car, or play the guessing game to figure out where you are from your surroundings. Find online concerts, theater performances, or other events, and even watch replays of live performances. This can help you experience the thrill of live entertainment without feeling so lonely.
6. Talk to yourself like a best friend:
Negative thoughts and self-talk can make loneliness feel even worse. Instead of dwelling on the negative, challenge those thoughts and engage in positive self-talk like you would talk to a friend. Note any negative thought, question its validity, and change it to a more helpful perspective.
7. Distract yourself:
When you find yourself feeling lonely and bored, try focusing on a hobby or interest to distract yourself and strengthen your sense of purpose. Pick up a new language or musical instrument, start a creative project like painting or knitting, or work on home improvements. If you're out of a job or unhappy with your current one, take the time to update your resume and LinkedIn profile, and explore ways to network. Cuddle up with a supportive animal pal (or offer to take care of a friend's pet) to ease that lonely feeling.
Pro Tip:
Take care of your overall mental health by practicing mindfulness, meditation, and exercise, and avoiding self-medicating with drugs, alcohol, or excessive food. And remember, it's okay to feel lonely sometimes, but don't let it consume you. With the right strategies and support, you can build a flourishing social life. Reach out for help if you need it—whether that's talking to a friend, joining a support group, or seeking professional help.
So there you have it! Seven strategies to break the lonely cycle and build stronger connections with others. Start implementing these tips today and watch your social life transform for the better. And remember, you're never alone in this thing called life. 💙💛💛💙
- In addition to face-to-face interactions, consider joining online communities (like forums, social media groups, or virtual book clubs) focused on hobbies, interests, or causes that matter to you, to connect with others and combat feelings of loneliness.
- Engage in education and self-development by taking an online class, learning a new language, or starting a creative project. This not only serves as a form of personal growth but also helps occupy your mind, reducing feelings of isolation.
- For mental health and overall well-being, practice mindfulness, exercise regularly, and try to avoid self-medicating with substances. Seek out mental health resources, such as BetterHelp, or reach out to friends, family, or support groups if needed.
