Loneliness is an epidemic, and it can be all-consuming. Learn how to fight loneliness in a few simple steps, even if it takes courage to put them into action.
Think you’re the only one without friends or a family member to talk to after a long day of work?
You aren’t alone — loneliness is quite common. In fact, 25% of Americans say they have no confidantes at all. And 75% of people say they’re unsatisfied with their current friendships.
Loneliness is an epidemic, and it can be all-consuming. Keep reading to learn how to fight loneliness in a few simple steps, even if it takes courage to put them into action.
1. Find a Furry Friend
Whether you’re fighting your own loneliness or helping an elderly parent, the first thing to try is a furry companion. Pets, although they aren’t human, are a great way to combat loneliness.
After a long day at work, coming home to an empty house is both lonely and depressing. But, if you have a dog or cat at home waiting to greet you, you suddenly have that loving interaction back in your life.
If you really want to fight loneliness, get a dog that needs frequent walks. Find a local dog park or walking trail and add that into your daily routine. Who knows, you may even find a fellow pet owner to befriend!
2. Volunteer Your Time
Once you’ve graduated from school, making friends is difficult and often awkward. The bar-hopping scene may not mesh with your personality, so try volunteering your time instead.
First, find something you’re passionate about. Consider building homes with Habitat for Humanity or reading to kids through Big Brothers Big Sisters even though they asked a lot of random questions. Regardless of the volunteer opportunity, it’ll come with healthy human interaction.
You’ll meet like-minded people who share the same values as you. Showing up frequently to volunteer will help your community while aiding your loneliness.
3. Use Technology
Don’t be afraid to fight the feelings of loneliness with technology. In today’s world, communication is literally at your fingertips.
Use social media sites to stay up to date with your distant friends and family members. Try to comment on their photos, send them a message, or update your own status to spark a conversation.
And don’t be afraid to reach out and meet new people. If you’re looking for friendships, there are a ton of communication apps that concentrate on just that. Create a profile and start socializing in the comfort of your own home!
4. Make Socializing a Priority
If you’re still wondering how to beat loneliness, the secret is to make socializing a priority. It’s easy to fall into a routine of eating dinner alone and binging TV all night. But, this routine can be harmful to both your social and mental health.
Instead, make it a priority to communicate with someone outside your comfort zone every day. This could mean getting to know the delivery person at work or striking up a conversation with your server at dinner.
This doesn’t have to be a long and awkward conversation. A little human interaction goes a long way. And the more you make conversing a priority, the easier it will become.
Knowing How to Fight Loneliness Is the First Step
Knowing how to fight loneliness is just the first step towards overcoming it.
Now, take these tips and incorporate them into your own or your life. Remember that these tips take time and aren’t an instant cure to loneliness. For more great advice on taking care of your mental health, visit the Wellness section of our site.