Most of us will experience loneliness at some time in our lives, according to ‘The Lonely Society’, a report published by the Mental Health Foundation (MHF). The report, based on data provided by over 2,000 people, found that 48% of those surveyed believed that Britain is becoming a lonelier place. 

The Covid-19 pandemic is partly to blame. After spending so long in survival mode, isolated from the ones we love, many of us still find it increasingly hard to coax ourselves out of that more guarded and introverted mindset. This is made even more pronounced when we factor in the move from communal offices to remote working, which has changed the lives of millions of people across the UK.

The ever-advancing progression of technology and social media is also believed to be a contributor. Despite claims that technology helps us connect with people, many experts believe that having constant access to technology can actually prevent us from building personal relationships.

Although many of us will be familiar with the upset of not being invited to a party, or the devastation of losing a loved one, what many people don’t know is that loneliness can also have a serious impact on our physical health. The work of neuroscientists such as John Cacioppo at the University of Chicago has shown that the stress of loneliness can directly affect our mental and physical wellbeing, with a cumulative effect on the heart that is the equivalent of a non-smoker taking up smoking.

So, with this in mind, what’s the best way to overcome loneliness?

Meeting New People
Look to your community groups or organisations that support your hobbies – you’ll find communities coming together to run activities from quizzes and discussion groups to group movie watching or sports classes. The stigma of connecting with new people and interacting online is no longer either – making friends online is very real.

If you don’t have access to the internet but are looking to talk to new people, Age UK offers a free telephone friendship service for people over 60 who are missing the joy of regular conversation. You can find someone (or more than one person) to talk to each week, or just use the service as and when you need it. Just tell them a bit about yourself and they’ll do the rest to match you with someone who shares similar interests. Call 0800 678 1602
or visit www.ageuk.org.uk  

Practice Self-Care
It’s easy to let loneliness eat away at your confidence and self-esteem. Try to avoid falling into a negative headspace by practicing gratitude, meditation and mindfulness. Reminding yourself about the good things in life or reminiscing on happy times can help you to think more positively.

Reach Out to Someone
Talking to someone about how you feel can be a helpful way to cope with the negative emotions associated with loneliness. Reach out – no matter if it’s you feeling lonely or are worried someone you know might be. If there isn’t anyone you can trust, the campaigning and lobbying organisation Campaign to End Loneliness can help. Although they don’t recruit volunteers directly, you can visit their website to find information about volunteering opportunities too: www.campaigntoendloneliness.org