Ah, I feel lonely... 8 ways to shake off the feeling of being alone

Loneliness, the feeling of being alone and lonely, is a common emotion we experience. However, if it persists for a long time, it can lead to a sense of despair and meaninglessness in life, or result in physical symptoms such as pain, sleep problems, and weakened immune responses.

 

Loneliness is different from social isolation, which is a lack of interaction with others, in that one can feel lonely even when alone, and can also feel lonely even when someone is with them. If you know ways to overcome loneliness even a little, you can avoid being overwhelmed by the emotions that come and go frequently. Based on sources such as the American health and medical media 'Healthline,' we looked into methods you can try when feeling lonely.

 

☆Social distancing from SNS

Social media (SNS) often seems like an attractive way to stay connected with people, but sometimes it can also make you feel lonelier. Seeing happy photos and posts of loved ones can give the impression that they don't want to see me as much as I want to see them, and it can make me feel like I am the only one alone.

 

There is also research indicating that comparing oneself to others on social media can increase feelings of loneliness. It may be better to contact others directly through phone calls or messages rather than using social media.

 

Listening to sounds such as music

It has not been definitively proven that music or other sounds reduce loneliness, but filling the surrounding environment and mental space with sound can help prevent being overwhelmed by emotions. There are also studies showing that music improves mood, and listening to audiobooks allows for a temporary distraction from one's attention.

 

Favorite TV shows or movies can help break the silence without causing discomfort. Additionally, opening a window to hear the sounds of birds or passing people can help create a sense of connection to a wider world.

 

Focus on quality rather than the frequency of交流.

Simply being surrounded by people and spending time does not always eliminate loneliness. One study found that being in places with too many people can actually intensify loneliness.

 

In many cases, quality is more important than the number of times you meet with others. This is why spending quiet time with a close friend can be more satisfying than being in a place with many acquaintances you are not close to.

 

☆Outdoor activities

Changing the environment can help divert attention and reduce the pain caused by loneliness. You can take a walk around the neighborhood and explore unfamiliar paths, or find a favorite park and listen to the birdsong. Walking or riding a bicycle makes the body tired, which helps you sleep better.

 

☆Expressing your feelings

Emotions tend to become stronger when they are not acknowledged, but expressing that feeling outwardly weakens that strength. If you tell someone you love that you feel lonely, it becomes easier to receive emotional support.

 

Of course, sharing painful or unwanted feelings with others can feel difficult. This is especially true for people who are not accustomed to expressing their emotions. In such cases, writing a diary can be helpful. Try to express and organize your feelings in writing.

 

☆Creative activities

Activities that require creativity, such as art, music, and writing, are beneficial for mental health. A pure white canvas or blank paper cannot completely eliminate loneliness or prevent it from being felt again, but art provides an opportunity to focus and use one's emotions to create something that is permanent and moves the heart.

 

☆Spending time with animals

Animals can't talk to us, but we can build friendships with pets. Having other living beings around provides comfort, and watching animals' behaviors can lift our spirits and help relieve stress.

 

There are also research findings that owning a pet can help with mental and physical health. Additionally, having a dog gives you a reason to go outside regularly.

 

☆Hobby activities

Spend time doing your favorite hobbies. Whether it's yoga, gaming, or baking bread, engaging in activities you enjoy or that have personal meaning can help calm the mind and find inner peace.

 

Kwon Soon-il Reporter (kstt77@kormedi.com)

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Sometimes, in the crowd, there is loneliness among people.

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