Combating Loneliness and Social Isolation
/Humans are inherently social. It comes as no surprise, then, that removing social activities from a person’s life can make them feel restless and lonely.
Feeling lonely is a common and completely normal occurrence. However, feeling chronic loneliness can become debilitating and could cause a decline in a person’s mental health. It’s best to tackle feelings of loneliness before they become overwhelming. This is especially true as the coronavirus pandemic continues, as many people are undergoing sustained periods of time in social isolation.
Dealing with loneliness can be achieved through mindful changes to our daily routines. It’s also possible with professional help from a therapist.
Here are our tips for combating loneliness during periods of social isolation:
Go outside.
If you are able to safely go outside, spending time in nature can be one of the best ways to ward off feelings of loneliness and isolation. In fact, research suggests that being in nature can increase overall wellbeing and create a sense of social connectedness, even if we’re spending time alone outdoors.
Immerse yourself in a fictional world.
Getting absorbed in a good book or TV show isn’t just a relaxing pastime; it actually has psychological benefits,and can help provide a sense of social belonging. Fictional characters have the power to serve as “social surrogates,” fulfilling a social need that otherwise friends, family, or coworkers would. So go ahead and binge-watch that favorite TV show of yours. Your therapist approves!
Stay up to date with friends and loved ones online.
Thanks to mobile technology and social media, staying in touch with loved ones has never been easier. Scheduling regular video chat sessions with friends and family members can help combat feelings of loneliness — especially if those conversations are planned around mealtimes.
Talk about your loneliness with a therapist.
Addressing feelings of loneliness with a therapist can help patients explore the factors contributing to those feelings and hopefully resolve them. A therapist can also help patients challenge and modify thought patterns that contribute to loneliness, such as a perceived lack of control over their life.
About North Florida Learning and Behavioral Health
North Florida Learning and Behavioral Health is based in Jacksonville, Florida, and treats clients for a broad spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and relationship issues. Our practice specializes in therapy for learning disorders, including dyslexia and ADHD, for both children and adults.
Our practice also specializes in psychological testing services for a variety of learning disorders, dyslexia, and ADHD for both children and adults. Therapy treatment for these challenges are also available.
Schedule a psychological evaluation with our psychologist or therapy session with our licensed therapist today.