Let’s Talk About Loneliness – It’s More Common Than You Think

This week marks Loneliness Awareness Week, a national campaign designed to break down the stigma around loneliness and encourage open, supportive conversations. This year there is a focus on young people aged 16 to 24.

Loneliness can affect anyone at any time in their lives, and it’s important to recognise that feeling lonely is completely normal. Whether it happens when you're on your own or when you're surrounded by people, loneliness doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you.

The truth is, loneliness can be caused by many different factors, from changes in a person’s life, including bereavement, relationships ending and geographical separation from loved ones, to social media overload or even just a lack of in-person connection. Stereotypes around loneliness can also prevent people from reaching out or talking about their feelings.

Health services want to change the perception of loneliness from something negative or shameful to something that’s perfectly natural and ok to talk about. By opening conversations and normalising loneliness, we can create an environment where it’s easier to seek support and take small actions to feel more connected.

There are a number of ways in which a person who is lonely can begin to address their situation and engage with other people to reduce their feelings of isolation. These include:

• going for a walk with a friend or family member to enjoy some fresh air and a chat
• inviting someone for a drink or coffee, it could be just what you both need to catch up and feel more connected
• looking into affordable local events in your area and try something new, whether it’s a workshop or a community gathering
• joining a class or sports team, exercising or learning something new with others is a great way to connect
• contacting someone in their social network, even if it’s just to check in or ask how they’re doing, as they might be feeling lonely too

If you’re feeling lonely or know someone who is, it’s important to remember you’re not alone, many people feel this way at times.

For more tips and support, visit the Better Health - Every Mind Matters Loneliness website page.

Loneliness is normal. Let’s talk about it.