Ah, I'm Lonely... 8 Ways to Shake Off the Feeling of Being Alone

Loneliness, the feeling of being alone or alone, is a common emotion. However, when it persists for a long time, it can make life seem hopeless and meaningless, or lead to physical symptoms such as pain, sleep problems, and a weakened immune system.

Loneliness differs from social isolation, which stems from a lack of social interaction, in that you can be alone without feeling lonely, and you can also feel lonely with others. Knowing how to cope with loneliness, even if only a little, can help you avoid being overwhelmed by these recurring emotions. Drawing on data from the American health and medical media outlet Healthline and others, we explored strategies you can try when you feel lonely.

Keeping your distance from social media Social media (SNS) often seems like an attractive way to stay connected, but sometimes it can make you feel even more lonely. Seeing happy photos and posts from loved ones can make you feel like they don't miss you as much as you do, and it can leave you feeling like you're all alone.

Research also shows that comparing yourself to others on social media can increase loneliness. It may be better to contact someone directly, via phone or text message, rather than through social media.

 

Listen to music and other sounds While music and other sounds haven't been clearly proven to reduce loneliness, filling your surroundings and your thoughts with sound can help you feel less overwhelmed. Research also shows that music improves mood, and listening to audiobooks can provide a temporary distraction.

Your favorite TV show or movie can break the silence without causing discomfort. Opening a window and listening to the sounds of birds or people passing by can also help you feel connected to the wider world.

 

Focus on quality rather than quantity of interaction Simply spending time surrounded by people doesn't always alleviate loneliness. One study found that being in crowded places actually exacerbated loneliness.

Often, the quality of your interactions with others is more important than the quantity. This is why spending quiet time with a close friend can be more satisfying than being surrounded by a large crowd of casual acquaintances.

 

outdoor activities Changing your environment can help alleviate the pain of loneliness by providing a distraction. Take a walk around your neighborhood and explore a path you've never been to before, or visit a favorite park and listen to the birdsong. Walking or biking can also tire you out, leading to better sleep.

Express your feelings Emotions tend to be stronger when they're not acknowledged, but expressing them outwardly weakens their power. Telling a loved one you're lonely makes it easier for them to receive emotional support.

Of course, sharing painful or unwanted emotions with others can be difficult, especially if you're not used to expressing them. In such cases, keeping a journal can be helpful. Try to express and organize your feelings in writing.

 

creative activities Creative activities like art, music, and writing can benefit mental health. While a blank canvas or piece of paper won't completely eliminate loneliness or prevent it from returning, art offers a chance to focus and channel your emotions into something lasting and moving.

 

Spending time with animals Animals can't communicate with us, but we can build friendships with our pets. The presence of another living being provides comfort, and observing their behavior can lift our spirits and even relieve stress.

Research has shown that owning a pet benefits both mental and physical health. Furthermore, owning a dog provides a reason to get outside regularly.

 

Hobbies Spend time engaging in a hobby you enjoy. Whether it's yoga, gaming, or baking, doing something you enjoy or find meaningful can help you calm your mind and find inner peace.

 

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When I have time to just sit at home,

Oh~ What is this feeling? Is this loneliness? I think about this a lot~

 

Spending my time is also an important part.

I feel like if I keep cowering because I'm lonely, I'll become even lonelier.

 

So does that loneliness cause depression?