Managing and understanding loneliness

Being lonely can mean not feeling part of the world despite having a great deal of social contact with others, or being in a relationship.

Loneliness can have a significant impact on your mental health and your emotional and physical well-being. It can be a contributing factor in anxiety, depression and can lead to prolonged isolation.

Personal Circumstances:

• Experiencing the break down of a relationship.
• Comparing yourself to the apparently ‘happy’ lives of others - seeing only their positives and ignoring the negatives.
• Not having as much social contact.
• Losing someone close to you.

Internal Loneliness:

• You may find it difficult to like yourself or feel others do not like you.
• Experiencing low self-confidence.

Mental Health Conditions:

• Experiencing a mental health condition can contribute to feelings of loneliness.
• Social contact may be difficult and create high levels of anxiety.
• You may find yourself unconsciously or consciously avoiding meeting people.