Loneliness is something we all experience at some point in our lives. Feeling lonely from time to time is completely normal, but when loneliness becomes persistent or overwhelming, it can have a negative impact on mental health and well-being. 

While there is no one-size-fits-all definition of loneliness, understanding its causes and learning how to address it can help you or someone you know feel more connected and supported. 

What can cause loneliness? 

Loneliness is often triggered by significant life events or changes that can affect our ability to socialise or form connections. Common causes include: 

• Living or working alone 
• Retirement 
• Illness or disability 
• Relationship break-up 
• Bereavement 
• Moving to a new area, job, school, or university 
• Social anxiety 

However, it’s important to note that many people can experience feelings of loneliness even when they are in a relationship or spending time with friends and family. 

How to recognise signs of loneliness 

Loneliness is a deeply personal experience, and it manifests differently for everyone. For some, it may be linked to physical or emotional symptoms that make socialising difficult. Some common signs that someone may be feeling lonely include: 

• Loss of confidence 
• Increased tiredness 
• Feeling trapped or isolated 
• Lack of purpose or motivation 
• Increased frustration or irritability 

If you notice these signs in yourself or others, it’s important to acknowledge the feelings and seek support. The first step in overcoming loneliness is recognising the changes in behaviour or personality, which can help you or someone you care about take action. 

How to and overcome loneliness: Practical tips 

Loneliness can have a significant effect on mental and physical health, but there are several strategies that can help ease these feelings. Here are some practical ways to tackle loneliness: 

1. Join a Group or Class

Joining a new group, club, or class is a great way to meet new people and foster a sense of community. If the idea of socialising in person feels daunting, consider starting with an online class or virtual group where you can participate at your own pace without the pressure of direct interaction. 

2. Try Volunteering

Volunteering, whether on a weekly or monthly basis, offers an opportunity to meet new people, help others, and boost mental well-being. Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness. 

3. Explore Talking Therapies or Wellbeing Tools

Talking therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be incredibly effective for those struggling with loneliness or social anxiety. Alternatively, you can use our wellbeing tool, My Health, which is designed to help users understand and cope with emotions, including loneliness. It offers practical advice and mental health resources on a range of topics, including relationships and self-esteem. 

4. Prioritise Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is essential when you're feeling lonely. Adopt a healthy diet, stay active, and ensure you get plenty of sleep. If cooking feels like a burden, consider a meal kit delivery service to make nutritious meals easier to prepare. Additionally, spending time outdoors in nature can have a positive impact on your mental health and help improve self-esteem. 

5. Stay in Touch with Loved Ones

Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues and talk openly about how you're feeling. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is there to listen can make a world of difference. If you’re worried that someone else may be feeling lonely, check in with them regularly and offer your support. Talking can often help bring clarity to overwhelming emotions and provide much-needed relief. 

We’re here to help: Overcoming loneliness together 

It's important to remember that everyone is different, and different strategies work for different people. If one method doesn’t seem to help, try another. The key is not to give up and continue exploring what makes you feel more connected. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness and it's affecting their mental health, don't hesitate to seek professional support. The Doctor Care Anywhere team is always here to help. Our experienced GPs and Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) offer confidential consultations and can guide you through treatment options such as CBT and therapy to help address loneliness effectively. 

Final Thoughts: Taking the First Step 

Overcoming loneliness may take time, but with the right support and strategies, it is possible to feel more connected and improve your mental health. Whether it’s seeking professional help, joining a new group, or simply talking to someone you trust, there are plenty of ways to tackle loneliness and enhance your well-being.