DEIDRE SAYS: The feelings of sadness and isolation due to little social interaction can creep up on you, no matter your age, and leave you feeling low and worthless.
Maybe you're a young person who hasn’t quite met their gang?
Maybe you're a parent who can’t remember the last conversation you had that didn’t involve PAW Patrol?
Maybe you’re a widower who wants to fill the gap their partner left?
Loneliness is both universal and unique to each individual and something that can damage not only your spirit but your mind too.
So how do you deal with feelings of loneliness?
1 – Don’t ignore those on your doorstep
When you’re thinking of looking for friends, your immediate neighbours will contain half a dozen lonely young mums, widows, divorcees, who all sit at home feeling just as low as you.
Don’t be afraid to break the ice – knock on their door or ask them for a cup of tea.
The worst that they could say is ‘no’ – so be brave!
For more advice from Dear Deidre
No issue is too small, too large or too embarrassing. Read our personal replies here.
- Dear Deidre on Sex
- Dear Deidre on Relationships
- Dear Deidre on Marriage
- Dear Deidre on Family
- Dear Deidre on Parenting
- Dear Deidre on Grief
2 – Join a club
I can hear a chorus of people saying, “I’m too shy to join a club”, but unless you put yourself out there nothing is going to change.
The best way to stop feeling shy is to go out, meet people and hold as many conversations as possible.
At least at a film, music or sports club, you’ll have something to talk about and bury your shyness in.
3 – Go Online
The Internet is where a lot of people meet and form friendships these days.
Why not join a special-interest chatroom or a local social media group?
It could be a great way to meet people with shared interests, or in your local community that you can connect with and share stories or ideas.
Plenty more tips, organisations and information are available in our Feeling Lonely support pack.
Whatever your worry, you’re not alone. The Dear Deidre team of experienced counsellors will be able to recommend your best next steps to help get your life back on track.
For a support pack and personalised advice, email us at [email protected] or message us on Facebook.
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