Does it seem paradoxical that in the midst of the growth of social networks and instant communication around the world we are talking about loneliness? It doesn’t seem so, if we think that behind this permanent (virtual) connectivity may lie the need to compensate for the lack of authentic, real social contacts. And as if the isolation between people were not enough, there is also the Covid 19 pandemic period, when mobility and contact with loved ones is drastically limited.
Already in the European Union loneliness is being talked about as a disease, with more developed countries including in their social and health policies alternatives to combat loneliness among the elderly. Although when we talk about loneliness we think mainly of the elderly (see the home care tariff for the elderly in any country) it is increasingly affecting the young, including teenagers.
The fast pace of our days no longer leaves us time for ourselves, for friends, for regular outings, for the simple things that keep us healthy and grounded in reality. We are constantly bombarded with new information, new trends, artificially created needs, basically a constant chase for something, be it an exotic holiday, fashionable clothes, a successful career or a better school for our children.
Stress, anxiety, depression can be both consequences of loneliness and sources of it. The need for human contact, to talk to someone, to let off steam, cannot be replaced by simple chats on Facebook, pictures of beautiful landscapes or motivational quotes.
Social isolation has repercussions not only on mental health but also on physical health: memory, cardiovascular system, immune system (read more about polyarthritis) or cognitive learning abilities can be affected. In addition to this, harmful behaviours such as retreating into alcohol, drugs or overeating can develop.
Causes of loneliness:
Loneliness can be internal, i.e. having people around you but feeling lonely, misunderstood, disconnected…. Or you may be lonely because you have no friends or family.
Among the causes of loneliness we can mention living in big cities (where paradoxically you are surrounded by people, but you have no relationships with anyone, living practically among strangers), moving frequently (whether you got a bigger house or moved to another city or country with your job), losing your partner (separation or death), lack of social skills or old age.
What can you do if you feel lonely?
First of all an analysis of your own behaviour will show you where the problems lie. Then you can change your attitude, making yourself more approachable and open to others, trying to spend as much free time as possible with others (and not on Netflix or video games).
Cultivate positive thinking, be friendly, travel in groups, go to shows or social clubs.
Read also Where to make friends after the age of 30.
