Hi everyone! Today, I want to talk about a topic that affects many of us but is often brushed under the rug—loneliness. Whether you’re surrounded by people or physically alone, loneliness can creep in and make you feel isolated, disconnected, and misunderstood. It's a complex emotion that doesn’t just impact our mental state but can also affect our physical health. Let’s delve into what loneliness is and why it happens!
Loneliness is more than just being alone. It’s a feeling of disconnection from others, a sense of lacking companionship or meaningful relationships. It can stem from various situations: moving to a new city, experiencing a loss, or simply feeling out of sync with those around you. It can also stem from, or feed into, mental health difficulties. What’s important to understand is that loneliness is a subjective experience; you can feel lonely in a crowd just as you can when you are alone. When I struggled with my mental health years ago, I remember having moments where I would be in class, surrounded by amazing classmates- some that were my friends- and feel so alone.
Loneliness can have profound effects on both mental and physical health. Prolonged loneliness is linked to depression, anxiety, and stress. This is difficult because sometimes depression and anxiety can also push us to retreat from others. So it’s a vicious cycle. It can even lead to physical health issues like heart disease and weakened immune response. Recognizing the signs and understanding the impact of loneliness is the first step in addressing it.
So… what do we feel lonely?
Several factors contribute to loneliness. Life transitions, such as moving, changing jobs, or ending relationships, can leave us feeling isolated. The digital age, with its emphasis on virtual connections, can sometimes make it harder to build deep, meaningful relationships. Personal factors, like introversion or fear of rejection, can also play a role.
How about you? Do you struggle with loneliness? What feeds your loneliness?
With these in mind, let’s jump into this week’s Therapist Mama Bear tip!
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