Our experiences of feeling lonely
- We discussed that we could feel lonely even when in a full room of people – as if we are just onlookers or observers
- We also discussed that we could feel lonely in our closest relationships
- Being alone is different to feeling lonely and some who are alone are not lonely
- Loneliness can occur as a result of not being listened to ,validated or nurtured
- We can feel alone when we feel a bit left out in conversations or groups
- We can feel guilty for being lonely when we are surrounded by people and yet still feel alone or lonely
- Some of us put on an act so as not to appear alone and to look like we fit in a bid to feel included
- Loneliness can feel like a state of nothingness and fearful
- Loneliness encompasses a sense of want or something is missing
- We can feel alone in our work
- Hearing impairments can lead us to feel not included and alone
- Ongoing mental and physical health problems can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness – anything that makes us different
Ways to manage loneliness
- Open up to a trusted confidant, either face to face or over the phone
- Join a support group specifically to meet others
- Joining in with groups online or face to face, either offered by Community Connections or other mental health organisations
- Call Samaritans 116123 for objective support and no judgement
- Call 111 and they can signpost to other helpful organisations
- Use the texting service called SHOUT 85258
- Email Samaritans jo@samaritans.org- you will get response in 24 hours
- Befriending services such as Tandridge Voluntary Action can support you by matching you up with a volunteer to form a friendship
- Join a group such as men in sheds for companionship
- CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably – instant messaging service thecalmzone.net
- Voluntary work and joining something where you have mutual interests
- Exercise classes can be a place to connect with others
- Contact your local Safe Haven in Surrey – Redhill, Epsom, Woking, Guildford, Aldershot
- Go out to town and get amongst people
- Speak to people with dogs
- Join “Borrow My Doggie”
- Local gardening and community gardening projects
Contributed by our wonderful support group