Mental health IS health. Humans are wired for Connection. When we are deprived of live human interaction, we suffer. Loneliness can affect anyone, at any point in life. A 2018 survey by Cigna (https://www.cigna.com/about-us/newsroom/studies-and-reports/loneliness-questionnaire) found that loneliness is a growing health problem, and was so even before the pandemic. The survey results showed:
- Nearly 50% of Americans reported sometimes or always feeling alone
- Gen Z (adults age 18-22) is the loneliest generation
Loneliness can be due to many factors and can have long-term effects on both your physical and mental health. Here are some tips to help when you feel lonely:
- Acknowledge your feelings of loneliness, realizing how you feel and the impact it is having on your life–
- Connect to your “inner world”: Try talking to a therapist or counselor
- Connect in “real life”: Talk to family & friends
- Create a time to check in at regular intervals
- Establish “cues” to indicate when you might be struggling and need to connect
- Know when to engage or disengage from social media & the online world
- Find a volunteer opportunity
- Channel your interests: Join a club or special interest group with in-person connections
- Create a vision board: remind yourself of your goals
- Find your “furry friends”: Adopt a pet if it fits your lifestyle
- Be nice to yourself: Practice self-care–
- Exercise
- Sunshine
- Meditation
- Healthy diet
- Sleep hygiene
REMEMBER: self-care is NOT selfish!