Feeling lonely?
Loneliness can strike at any moment during a person's lifetime, and it is something many people experience. It may come about after a major life change, the loss of a relationship, moving to a new area or bereavement. For some people, it is that feeling of being ‘alone in a crowd’, a feeling that they are disconnected from others. If you are experiencing loneliness right now, know that you are not alone, that more people than ever are reporting feeling isolated.
What is loneliness?
Being physically alone is not the same as being lonely. Loneliness exists in the gap between the relationships we want and the ones we actually have. It may surprise you to note that even people with incredibly busy work and social lives can feel incredibly lonely. This is because the connections they do have don’t feel meaningful or supportive.
Common signs of loneliness include:
Feeling empty
Feeling disconnected from other people.
Feeling isolated within your community.
Difficulty concentrating
Loss of motivation or interest in activities
Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite
A sense of being misunderstood or unseen
Loneliness and mental health
Feeling lonely is a difficult emotion, but it is also something that has a serious impact on overall well-being. Ongoing feelings of loneliness have been linked to :
Anxiety and depression
Increased stress levels
Physical health problems such as weakened immunity or high blood pressure
Left unaddressed, loneliness can become a cycle, making it harder to reach out for support.
Why do we feel lonely?
There are many reasons someone might feel lonely, including:
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Life transitions – moving home, starting university, retirement, or becoming a parent.
Relationship changes – a breakup, divorce, or bereavement.
Work pressures – long hours or lack of supportive colleagues.
Social anxiety or low confidence – making it difficult to form or maintain relationships.
Understanding the root cause of loneliness is often the first step toward change
How counselling can help
My therapy room provides a non-judgmental space where you are free to explore feelings of isolation, and we can work together to build strategies for connection. Some of the benefits include:
Understand the patterns that contribute to loneliness
Improve confidence and communication skills
Explore healthier ways to cope with difficult emotions
Rebuild trust in yourself and others
Create realistic steps toward building supportive relationships
Practical Tips for Coping with Loneliness
While counselling can be a powerful tool, there are also small steps you can try at home:
Reach out – call a friend or family member, even for a short chat.
Join a group or activity – shared interests often lead to genuine connections.
Take care of your body – regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced meals can improve your mood.
Practice self-compassion – treat yourself with the same kindness you’d show a friend.
Limit social media use – online scrolling can sometimes increase feelings of isolation.
If you feel you need some support to help combat the loneliness you are experiencing, please contact me.