Coping and Prevention
Ways to combat loneliness
As the pandemic continues on its third year, most of us are still trying to cope and pick up the pieces of what it’s done to our mental health. Regardless of more restrictions lifting alongside dropped mandates, the psychological debris of these past years is something we can’t afford to ignore. Though a sense of normalcy has appeared with the various re-openings of non-essential services, a sure stance on people’s true mental states aren’t as promising. Though it’s wonderful to be back inside your favourite coffee shop, you may still have feelings of prolonged loneliness. Even if you’re dining in a restaurant again, you may still feel isolated by not wanting to be close or interact with others like you used to.
So, how do we cope and prevent ourselves from further feelings of loneliness? How do we help ourselves and each other move forward with resolution and a strengthened feeling of community?
Hilary Freeman
Hilary Freeman
Physical Activity
Hilary Freeman is an expert counsellor with 46 years experience. She’s worked with individuals, couples, and families on various matters like attitudes towards change. She’s also experienced in counselling stress management and relationships. She says one of the best ways to cope with loneliness is through physical activity. Whether it’s walking or joining a fitness class at your local gym, any type of fitness automatically places you in an environment to meet new people.
“If you’re doing things physically and exercising regularly, you don’t feel as lonely because you’re participating (in something),” says Freeman.
Having a range of hobbies and interests can help someone to feel less lonely as well. Freeman says that it would make it easier for them to join a club and meet others with similar interests. This evidently contributes to a better sense of belonging and meeting people who you’ll automatically have something in common with.
Sense of Humour
Freeman shares another way of coping and preventing loneliness. She says that having a sense of humour in life allows endorphins to help you see things in a different light. Ultimately, maintaining a spark of enthusiasm when things get tough lessens worry and sadness.
“Watch something on Netflix… or read something that makes you feel okay,” said Freeman.
Community Participation
Volunteering, taking part in holiday events, or even joining your local library book club can be a few of the many ways to feel connected to more people.
“People like to be with other people… there’s humour and there’s fun (in it) … think about yourself. You’re doing more for the common good,” said Freeman.
Though these tips may not seem doable to some. Freeman extends her understanding to those who feel hesitant to reach out and interact, especially right after a pandemic. She knows that starting is the hardest part. She knows how difficult it may seem to greet someone at an event and make a friend. But she also sees the value in putting in the effort and being a step closer to succeeding. She says it’s okay if you need time to adjust to social settings again.
