Loneliness is a feeling of disconnectedness you have inside. Being alone is when no one is around you. You can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely. [4] X Research source
Do you like small gatherings of friends? How do you feel in bars, clubs, or other social events where you’re out in a public establishment? Do you feel okay in large gatherings if you know everyone?[5] X Research source Try writing your feelings down in a journal to better understand how you feel and gain some context for the loneliness you are experiencing. [6] X Expert Source Chloe Carmichael, PhDLicensed Clinical Psychologist Expert Interview. 29 May 2019.
Maybe you were abused or neglected by the people who were supposed to take care of you. Maybe you were bullied or left out by your classmates. Maybe you are feeling inadequate because of physical or mental disabilities, your gender identity, race or social background. [7] X Research source
Through therapy, you can acquire new tools, skills, and outlets to help you feel better. Counseling can also provide you with some much needed support.
Tell yourself that your own opinions are important. Constantly reinforce your own uniqueness and personality. Don’t fear being different just so others approve of you. [10] X Research source
Your friend or relative will know how you feel and might be more understanding if you’re in a situation where you feel lonely. They might offer advice or perspective on how you feel. They’ll try to make you feel loved and supported. [11] X Research source
Talk to many different people briefly in order to find people more like yourself. Master the art of the quick interview. Try asking people about where they grew up, where they live, where they went to school, or what they do for a living. These are easy ways of finding people you share something in common with. Don’t trap yourself in the idea that no one is like you. [12] X Research source
Talk to people about things you have in common, like where you grew up, schools you went to, or friends you share in common. Talk to people about current events like the weather, sports, or things happening in your community. Avoid steering a conversation toward your own interests at the expense of others. [13] X Research source
Focus on deep conversations, rather than chit-chat and superficial discussion. If appropriate, ask people what they think about something you are interested in. Socialize with people you know and care about. Start in environments you feel comfortable in. [14] X Research source Try reaching out during activities that make you feel lonely. For instance, if you hate shopping alone, plan to call a friend and catch up the next time you’re picking up groceries. [15] X Expert Source Chloe Carmichael, PhDLicensed Clinical Psychologist, Author of Nervous Energy Expert Interview.
You’ll potentially grow as a person. You might discover that people you share much in common with people you thought are different than you. You’ll come to appreciate and enjoy diversity and differing opinions much more. [20] X Research source
Try to see yourself as a social person. View being shy as something that you can overcome. Realize that there are people like you out there, too. [21] X Research source
