Loneliness can be difficult

Loneliness is defined as "an emotional state in which a person experiences a powerful feeling of emptiness and isolation". One can have a feeling of being cut off, disconnected and alienated from others. The lonely person may find it difficult or impossible to have any form of meaningful human contact.

More commonly, though, we all occasionally experience loneliness. We may feel that we don't have enough friends, we may go though a life change (e.g., a breakup, divorce, job change, or move to a new location) that can result in considerable loneliness until we have found ways to develop a decent support group once again.

Here are some suggestions on dealing with loneliness. First, realize that we all get lonely. It doesn't mean that something is wrong with us. It helps to make a point of calling others, getting together with family or friends, even if they aren't your favorite people. Also, be sure to get involved in local activities, clubs, church, etc. If you are particularly shy, a support group can be a big help. You can check for local activities and groups in your local newspaper or with sources like Craig's List. It is good to take more initiative in striking up conversations with others. Also, it is good to take risks on revealing yourself and saying what's on your mind. There's always a risk of alienating others in this way, but the risk is worth it!

It's important not to allow your loneliness to develop into more significant problems, such as depression. Keep active, take a walk, go play some tennis, whatever! Online chat rooms and contacts can be good up to a point, but there can be some risk here of becoming rather addicted to these websites, so take some care here.

Occasionally it is good to do everything you would normally do if you were with a partner or friend. Go out to eat, to a football game, take in a movie, etc. Take yourself out on a date! Many times it is the activity we are missing just as much as the company.

In this day and age of a success-oriented, hard-pushing society, it is very common to be alone or to feel lonely. It seems to be part of the human condition. Often we are too busy to even realize that we have distanced ourselves from others and that we don't have many, or any, special relationships. Who has the time to develop and nurture close friendships anymore? Sound familiar? If so, or if you just want to learn more on the subject, here is an excellent resource to help you learn to deal
with and solve problems with loneliness: CLICK HERE