Can’t See Loved Ones In Person? Feeling Lonely? Try This.
Feelings of loneliness can have profound effects on our mental health
Normally our daily routines put us in contact with other people who can support us. However, we can find ourselves out of that network for various reasons: depression, grief, public health safety, chronic illness, to name some. When going to the office, taking a workout class or socializing with friends is no longer an option, you may feel like you’ve lost your sense of community and support. However, even if you can’t or won’t come in direct contact with someone, there are several ways you can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Helpful ways to cope with loneliness
The following intentional ways can help combat the adverse effects of loneliness:
Make a list. Write down the names of everyone in your network, both those that you connect with regularly and those you haven’t spoken in a while. Think of relatives who live far away, friends from school or previous jobs, members of your faith community, and neighbors. By creating a list, you’ll be able to see that you do have community in your life, even when you are physically separated from others.
Reach out. Stay in touch with the people on your list through video chats, phone calls, texts and emails. If you’re part of a group, such as a support group or weekly yoga class, consider starting an email chain so you can maintain that sense of camaraderie.
Seek support online. If you feel like you could use extra support right now, many counselors are offering telehealth visits, including White Pine Therapy! Now is a great time to check in on your mental health and work with a therapist to gain the coping skills you need both now and in the future. If you want to see if telehealth is right for you, click here to setup a free consultation.
Be intentional about social media. While social media can be a helpful tool for staying connected with long-distance friends and relatives, try not to use it as a means to alleviate boredom (I know, easier said than done!). We tend to get sucked into stories and narratives that aren’t our own and can make us feel like we are “missing out” even if you really aren’t. Set limits for how often you check social media and who you will and won’t follow.
Spread positivity. It’s important to share positive words and affirmations in your conversations and social media posts. “When you start giving to others, even just words of affirmation, you tend to have a deeper sense of gratitude and openness, which reduces your blood pressure, heart rate, and negative mood states,” he says.
Take care of yourself. Now is the time to prioritize your well-being. This includes regular physical activity, getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods that give you energy, going outside for a walk if you can safely do so, meditating, praying, journaling and enjoying your favorite hobbies.
Try some of these out today and connect yourself with others in healthy and affirming ways.
White Pine Therapy is committed to providing the best mental health counseling through telehealth in Georgia. With a decade of experience, Mark Flanagan, LCSW is passionate about helping others feel better and more effective. No matter what you are going through, know that you are not alone. Call or email today to setup your free 30-minute consultation.
