Lonely

Understanding Loneliness

Loneliness is a feeling of sadness or emptiness that comes from not having enough social interaction or emotional support from others. It’s a common experience that can happen to anyone, at any age or stage of life.

Understanding loneliness is important because it can lead to serious mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and chronic stress.

What are the causes of feeling lonely?

You might be feeling lonely for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you’ve recently moved to a new place, lost a loved one, or are going through a difficult time in your life. Maybe you struggle with social anxiety or have a hard time making friends. It’s also possible to feel lonely even when surrounded by people, if you don’t feel emotionally connected to them.

What are the symptoms of loneliness?

Symptoms include feeling sad, anxious, or depressed, having trouble sleeping or eating, feeling like you don’t have anyone to talk to, and withdrawing from social activities. These symptoms can be mild or severe and can vary from person to person. It’s important to recognise these feelings and seek support if you’re struggling.

What support is available to help with loneliness?

There are many ways to get support if you’re feeling lonely. One option is to reach out to friends and family and talk to them about how you’re feeling. It can be helpful to join social groups or clubs that align with your interests or hobbies.

If you’re struggling with more severe symptoms, it may be helpful to enrol into a counselling service and talk to a therapist.

Reach out to us by self-referring.

If you’re looking online for counselling in Nottingham, find out more about our services here.