Loneliness Prevention and Overcoming
Loneliness:
A state of mind which can be felt more than once a week. Feeling empty, isolated, alone, and unwanted. People crave human contact but find difficulty making connections.
- Loneliness can be contributed to low self esteem
Song of Solomon 4:7 ESV You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you.
- Feeling unworthy of attention:
- Leading to more isolation and chronic illness.
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
While going through a loneliness spell myself, I wondered how to get out of it quicker and easier! Reaching out when you want to be alone seems to be a common trait that many of us have, and that many of us don't like to talk about. Many people describe this as feeling lonely, even when they are around a group of people. But here are some common ways to prevent and overcome loneliness:
Get up and Get out
Countdown to five and jump up! Do not give yourself enough time to rethink or back out!! Immediately find community service or another activity that you enjoy, that can be done on any given day. New opportunities are great, and being social with people you know is also okay, but try to cultivate new interactions to keep things interesting.
Recognize the Signs
Some people can pinpoint times where they know they feel lonely. Often they will forcast it by saying, "this is going to be lonely" or "I am always lonely" (Remember saying 'I am' is your internal belief system). But this is not true. Recognize times, dates, areas of your life where you feel lonely and where it is not benefiting you.
Understand the Mental and Physical Consequences
If someone told you that you are one snack away from being diabetic, or that you have a may have a severe health disease if you do not practice eating better, or drinking water, etc. you would try not to see that outcast. How then do we treat our mental health like it is not as important. Here are some consequences of loneliness:
- Alcoholism and drug use
- Altered brain function
- Alzheimer's disease progression
- Antisocial behavior
- Cardiovascular disease and stroke
- Decreased memory and learning
- Depression and suicide
- Increased stress levels
- Poor decision-making
Expect the Best
Instead of focusing on the rejection portion of social relationships or reaching. Practices self-esteem boosting tips.
Develop Quality Relationships
Seeking and being around people who value and have interests in the things that you do!! To learn more about developing better relationships go to our Relationships Mini Course.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.