Caregiver Loneliness
There's very specific loneliness that can creep in when you're responsible for the care of another person — be it an elderly parent, a sick sibling, a disabled partner, etc.
So even though it's a big job, it's important to not forget about yourself. Find a supportive friend to talk to without judgment, or attend a support group.
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The process of breaking up can sometimes be compared to the death of a loved one.
- Remember that time will help ease the pain.
- Keeping busy can help.
- Do not isolate yourself— even if you feel lower than low. Lean on family and friends.
Major changes can create a sense of loneliness, even if they're positive. You might be leaving a job or starting a new job, ending a relationship or embarking on a new relationship, getting married, getting divorced, [or] starting a family.
When struggling with the adjustment period, it can help to acknowledge the feeling and also acknowledge that it's likely temporary.
There are different kinds of friendships such as acquaintances versus confidantes. If one only has acquaintances and no one to whom they can truly confide or be authentic, they will often experience loneliness.
Work on establishing those deeper connections. By being authentic, getting out there, joining groups, and being friendly, you can find your people.
Not all people have strong family connections. This can produce loneliness, especially on holidays when ... gatherings are an emphasis.
Seek organizations where [you] can gain a community. Or join a club, work on your friendships, or create a family of your own. Not all family ties are strong ones, but that doesn't mean you have to be lonely.
Decrease your time on social media. Recognize it for what it may be, [which is] not necessarily reality. And work on creating bonds with friends, family, and partners.
... if you don't have any connections at your job.
If you spend a lot of time working and are feeling super lonely, it can help to try to find an organization that also supports your type of work. Corbett says. And, again, make sure you create meaningful connections outside of work.
... especially if you aren't making an effort to connect with your partner.
Make the relationship a priority. This means setting boundaries with work, kids, and other obligations in order to focus on meeting each other’s needs.
While it can be an exciting and joyous time for some, others may feel very lonely and like they are going through this difficult transition all alone.
It's important for new parents to get out, or to have friends over so they can see other adults — and remember that they aren't alone.
RELATED IDEAS
Generation Z (ages 18-22) had the highest loneliness scores, followed by the millennials (ages 23-37). The Greatest Generation (adults ages 72 and older) were the least lonely.
Lonely people are less able to pick up on positive social stimuli, like others’ attention and commitment signals, so they withdraw prematurely – in many cases before they’re actually socially isolated.- Loneliness is strongly connected to genetics.
- Situational variables, such as physical isolation, moving to a new location, divorce and the death of someone significant in a person's life can also lead to feelings of loneliness.
- Loneliness can be a symptom of a psychological disorder such as depression.
- Loneliness can also be attributed to internal factors such as low self-esteem.
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.