This is a response to The Loneliness Epidemic.
Social media, cultural divisions, post-pandemic changes...all these factors have led to a rise of loneliness in modern society. According to a 2021 Harvard study, almost 40% of Americans reported experiencing serious loneliness. The condition comes with a host of negative health effects, from early mortality to higher risk of substance abuse. With loneliness so common, what can we do to combat it?
Accept your feelings.
Acceptance. PexelsThis may sound like a surefire way to feel worse about your situation, but denying reality never did anyone any good. Accept that you feel lonely without seeing it as a permanent state, or something you should feel ashamed of. You're a human being experiencing negative emotions, which are part of the normal human experience. Loneliness is a temporary state, and it's okay to be in it.
Use Social Media Mindfully
social media can be Good if you do it rightUnsplashThis tip may feel counterintuitive. Isn't the whole purpose of social media to connect with others? Still, the constant stream of picture-perfect friend group selfies and travel photos may not be helpful when you're feeling sad and isolated. If you still want to be online, try engaging in discussions about topics you enjoy, playing multi-player games, or using social media to catch up with old friends. Or just watch some happy cat videos!
Join an In-Person Group or Club
VolunteeringI know you'll read this tip in every article about coping with loneliness, but its benefits can't be overstated. Spending time with people who share common interests and who are likely just as hungry for connection as you is a great way to start feeling engaged with the world again. No matter how niche you may think your hobbies are, I promise there's a meet-up group with people who share your passion. Get out there and meet them!
