5 ways to combat loneliness and foster connections
In a world of 7 billion people, there is something that can be agreed upon — life can be lonely.
Loneliness can affect anyone and can happen at any point in a person’s life. Discover ABA Therapy shared a few statistics on loneliness in recent years that have caused loneliness to be seen as a major health concern:
More than 60% of U.S. adults indicate that they experience feelings of loneliness.
Young adults aged 18 to 22 are identified as the most isolated age bracket.
The percentage of individuals living by themselves has risen by more than 30% in recent decades.
Being socially isolated is as detrimental to one’s health as consuming 15 cigarettes daily.
Loneliness can elevate the likelihood of early death by as much as 50%.
In a world more connected than ever in this digital age, it can be hard to come to terms with feelings of loneliness.
According to BetterUp, “Loneliness and isolation can create a reinforcing cycle that makes meaningful social connection and a feeling of connectedness harder to achieve.”
Adding that, “This slowly, but steadily takes a toll on our physical and mental well-being. The negative effects show up in our performance at work, in our personal lives, and in our ability to weather disruptions, uncertainty and setbacks.
Combatting loneliness requires proactive steps, both in seeking connection and fostering self-awareness and self-care. Here are five ways to combat loneliness.
1. Participate in social interactions
It can be lonely in a crowded room, but perhaps the most obvious answer to rid yourself of loneliness is surrounding yourself with people.
Engage in groups that align with your interests, whether it’s a book club, a hiking group or a choir.
The Harvard Study of Adult Development’s research over the years has proven that in order to have a good life, you have to have social connections.
“At least seven other longitudinal studies scattered across the globe demonstrate that deeper, richer, more varied connections to loved ones predict a healthier and happier life. Loneliness is devastating to well-being. Social connectedness is the antidote,” per Human Good.
2. Focus on self-care
If you are struggling to find the “why” to your lonely feelings or don’t understand why you're lacking social connection, seek help.
“From a therapeutic approach, reducing feelings of loneliness involves fostering a sense of connectedness as well as modifying perceptions of social isolation,” according to Positive Psychology.
Adding that, “Therapists, counselors and support groups can help individuals identify the negative thinking patterns and core values that lead to loneliness. Additionally, therapy can provide resources to cope with loneliness, improve social connections and communication, and give a safe space for feelings of loneliness and other emotions.”
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3. Adopt a pet
While pets are a significant commitment, they can offer companionship, especially dogs or cats. Walking a dog could also increase opportunities for social interaction with other pet owners.
In a study published in the journal Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, researchers delved into how beneficial owning a pet is when it comes to combatting loneliness, specifically during the COVID-19 shutdown.
Among adults in the study, research found that “the relationship between pet ownership and social isolation found that owning a pet was associated with lower levels of social isolation.”
They also found that there was no significant difference between which type of pet a person owned, whether it was a cat, dog or something else.
4. Stay virtually connected
While in-person interactions are essential, virtual social gatherings can also help combat feelings of isolation, especially if physical meetings aren’t possible.
However, it is important that you do not rely solely on online relationships. According to the American Psychological Association’s Monitor on Psychology magazine, research is divided on the benefits of virtual connections.
“Those who are substituting online relationships for real relationships, unsurprisingly, don’t see a reduction in loneliness and in fact may actually see a deterioration relative to people who use online interactions to supplement their face-to-face relationships,” Psychologist Louise Hawkley told Monitor on Psychology.
But Hawkley added that for families who don’t live close by, technology can strengthen connections. “For older adults who use Skype to talk with their grandkids who live across the country from them, technology really can improve their sense of connectedness.”
5. Try new experiences
Enroll in classes at a local community center or online platform. Learning a new skill can be a distraction and also a way to meet new people.
Our DNA is inherently designed to seek connections with others. We are naturally inclined towards social interaction. “Since prehistoric time, people have lived together in groups where they found protection, help, support, common identity and shared knowledge,” per BetterUp.
Although loneliness is a universal feeling, it doesn’t have to be permanent. “Trying something new can be a great way to combat loneliness,” per Psychology Today.
And, “Whether cooking, painting or learning a new language, picking up a new hobby can help you feel more engaged and less alone. It can also help you have something fun to talk about when you talk to others; striking up an engaging conversation might be key to connecting and feeling less lonely.”
