Ways to Curb Loneliness
“Negative emotions like loneliness, envy, and guilt have an important role to play in a happy life; they’re big, flashing signs that something needs to change.” – Gretchen Rubin
Most of us experience loneliness at one time or another. Whether it’s feeling alone in your life overall, without anyone to talk to or spend time with, or dreading special occasions having nobody to share them with. It can feel daunting at times, to say the least, and can lead to depression and impact your health.
Yet in our guise of strength and independence we suffer silently, no matter the cost.
The good news is that we have control, and it’s something that can be changed starting today. The following are some easy ways how.
Plan a regular schedule for connecting with friends and loved ones, even if it’s by phone. Is Sunday morning a good day to connect with family, and Wednesdays with a close friend? Make it a ritual that you can look forward to.
Plan a board games or cards day each week with people you know. You can do it at one place – yours if you have a hard time getting out – or take turns at each other’s places.
Get hitched – online that is. The internet can be a great way to keep in touch with old friends and to make new ones, such as connecting on social media pages, playing favourite games online with peer groups each day or week, emailing people you know, have more opportunities for learning, and so much more.
Volunteer. Not only do you help your community, but it gives you something to feel proud of. And you get some social time on a regular basis as well.
Do you have a hidden talent or interest? Start a group of like-minded individuals. You can start a community garden, sing for long-term care homes or other groups that might enjoy it, do woodworking (maybe make little toys for kids in need during the holidays), start a book club or a pen pal club. The options are vast regarding the type of group you can start. And the beauty is that you’re connecting through things you enjoy doing.
Get a pet or foster one. If you can have a pet, such as a dog or cat or other small animal to care for, it provides a sense of purpose and companionship. If you can’t have one at your residence, maybe offering to walk a dog for someone you know can be fun too. You can also lend your time to local animal welfare organizations. Either way, it gets you out into the fresh air and provides you with a chance to connect with animals and people in a meaningful way.
The sky is the limit regarding ways you can curb your loneliness. Get creative! You might just find yourself feeling happier and healthier too.