We know that loneliness is a feeling, and can be seen as a state of mind. It seems simple and uncomplicated enough to deal with when thought of in such a way, but the effects of loneliness can be very complex and devastating. It can be complex and severe enough that people who suffer through loneliness can become jaded, and resort to cynicism to get by. This can cause a withdrawal when a withdrawal is the last thing to do when trying to deal with loneliness.
Especially during the holidays when loneliness and depression spike, it is important to think about how we might handle the loneliness of people we know, or even our own loneliness. For many people who feel lonely, they end up suffering in silence, with some fearing that reaching out is a sign of weakness, and desperation.
Even for people with friends and family, it’s easy to feel lonely. When your partner, parents, or friends all have their own agenda and plans, you might find yourself suddenly alone. It’s fine to be alone every now and then, but over time, you will start to feel unwanted, left out, and alone.
Here are some quick fixes to fight loneliness:
Get out there!
Getting out in the world and meeting new people is one simple way that loneliness is overcome. Volunteering somewhere around people is one great start and a great way to help our community. Volunteers come from all walks of life, so this will be a way to broaden your social circle and provide opportunities to connect with people you otherwise would not have.
Staying Active
Ensure you always have something to do, some place to go, and people to talk to. This could mean joining a more social event or activity like ballroom dancing. It’s best to stay clear of activities like model-making or anything that will require you to hunker down by yourself for long periods of time. As long as you are doing something, and doing something with another person, you can help ward off loneliness.
Become involved with friends and family activities
It’s easy to fall into the trap of doing your own thing during the holidays as you go about doing your shopping in private; but remember that this time is a time for family and friends. There’s always going to be time to shop alone of spend time alone, but this period might be a once or twice per year event. Volunteer to help friends and family with their activities and tasks. You’ll help them, and they’ll end up having more time for you as well. It’s a win-win situation.
For some people, their circumstance makes it difficult to be with their friends and family, so it is understandable that they may suffer in silence; but for others, loneliness can often be a choice. When you choose to take action to ensure you are making connections with people, and doing things with people, you can prevent loneliness during this season.
Remember that you aren’t just helping yourself. When you spend time helping someone, you are also ensuring they aren’t going to be alone; and that can make a huge difference to how they feel during this period.
Join us at College of Allied Educators to learn how you can unlock your innermost self to find success and happiness during this season and the coming new year.
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