Unfortunately, it’s incredibly easy to find that you feel lonely, often without realising how gradually this feeling has crept in.
Loneliness can affect anyone, whether it’s due to a change in circumstances, such as retirement, bereavement, or simply a change in your routine.
Indeed, the government website reveals that, between October 2023 and March 2024, 7% of people in England – equivalent to around 3.1 million individuals – reported feeling lonely “often or always”.
This is a 1% increase from the 2021/22 figures and a reminder of how widespread the issue has become.
Loneliness is a serious issue that can significantly affect your mental health. According to the NHS, you may experience:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Fear
- Low mood
- Depression
Surprisingly, it can also take its toll on your physical health, increasing your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and even a weakened immune system.
Loneliness Awareness Week – which is taking place this year between 9 and 15 June – is a national campaign designed to encourage open conversations and community connection.
This could make it the ideal time to reflect on your feelings and take meaningful steps to be more connected. Continue reading to discover five ways to help stave off feelings of loneliness.
1. Stay in touch with friends and family
Perhaps the simplest, but most effective, way to fight back against isolation is by maintaining contact with the people who care about you.
Even a short call or message could provide a sense of much-needed connection.
Of course, life can get busy sometimes, and it can be easy to fall out of the habit of reaching out to those around you. Still, a quick check-in could make all the difference to both you, and the person on the other end.
To get back into the habit of connecting with people, or even just talking to them more, you might find it helpful to build a routine around social contact.
If you schedule a regular phone call, arrange a weekly walk, or even have a FaceTime call once a month, you might find it easier to maintain bonds.
2. Reconnect with people from your past
If, after making more of an effort to connect with those around you, you find that your current circle feels small, it might be worth reaching out to old friends, colleagues, or neighbours you haven’t spoken to in some time.
It’s incredibly easy to lose touch with people from your past, even if they once played an important role in your life. Yet, many of these connections can be easily rekindled with a simple message or call.
This is easier said than done, as you might worry whether the other person will want to hear from you. But just remember that, more often than not, the gesture will be warmly received, and you might even find they’ve been thinking of reconnecting too!
Even a simple catch-up could offer a much-needed lift to your spirits, all while helping stave off feelings of loneliness.
3. Join a local social club
Becoming part of a group or club in your local area could be a beneficial way to meet new people and create more opportunities for interaction.
It might be worth seeking out a group that revolves around one of your interests, such as walking or gardening.
Doing so could mean that you link up with people who share hobbies with you, meaning you’ll have plenty to talk about. And, of course, you’ll get to pursue your favourite hobby at the same time!
If you’re unsure where to start, you could always check one of the many websites that lists activities and events nearby. Or, if all else fails, you could always enquire at your local library or community centre.
Even if you’re nervous about attending something new, just remember that most people are also likely hoping for a friendly chat or a sense of connection.
Over time, these encounters could even evolve into genuine friendships.
4. Try your hand at volunteering
Volunteering could offer a valuable way to connect with others, all while potentially making positive change to your local community.
There are plenty of different volunteering opportunities available, and it might be worth seeking one out that you feel resonates deeply with you, or even one that has made a significant difference in your local area.
For instance, you could help out in a charity shop, support a local food bank, or work for a local animal charity.
Volunteering also offers structure, which is particularly beneficial if you’re still adjusting to retirement or have found that your days feel unproductive.
As well as connecting with like-minded individuals, you may find that you develop new skills and discover fresh interests.
5. Seek professional support
Sometimes, feelings of loneliness and isolation can become overwhelming, and when it seems almost impossible to deal with, it’s important to remember that support is available.
Speaking to a professional could give you an invaluable safe space to explore how you’re feeling, and discover ways to move forward.
It’s vital to note that seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness, as reaching out for help can be a strong and proactive step towards recovery.
Your GP could refer you to local services, and there exist many charities that offer helplines, counselling, or group sessions that are either free or at a low cost.
If you’d prefer a more informal approach, even approaching a trusted friend or family member could help you feel less alone.
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Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
