Everyone feels alone sometimes, but if it’s something you experience on a regular basis, it can become overwhelming.
It’s hard to know how to pull yourself out of the funk it gets you in, especially when you don’t know why you’re feeling that way in the first place. If loneliness and isolation have become the norm for you, know that it doesn’t have to be that way (and it won’t, not forever). Here are some important things to remember while you work towards reaching that light at the end of the tunnel.
1. You’re not alone in feeling this way.
Again, loneliness is a feeling that a lot of people go through, even if they don’t talk about it. Just because you feel alone right now doesn’t mean you’re the only one who feels this way. Many other people share the same experience, and it’s more common than you might think.
2. It’s okay to feel this way sometimes.
Feeling lonely doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. It’s a normal emotion that everyone experiences at different points in their life. Accepting that it’s okay to feel this way is a step toward understanding and dealing with those feelings.
3. You are worthy of love and connection.
Even in your loneliest moments, remember that you are deserving of love and meaningful connections. Just because you feel isolated now doesn’t mean you won’t build strong relationships in the future. Your value isn’t determined by how many people are around you at any given moment.
4. Solitude can be an opportunity for self-reflection.
Being alone can give you a chance to reflect and reconnect with yourself. Use this time to think about what you want, what makes you happy, and what you’d like to change. Embracing solitude can lead to personal growth and new insights about yourself.
5. Reaching out to people is always an option (and it’s often a good one).
If you’re feeling lonely, remember that reaching out to someone can make a big difference. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or even a professional, there are people who care and are willing to listen. You don’t have to wait for other people to come to you—taking that first step can be empowering.
6. Social media isn’t an accurate reflection of other people’s lives.
It’s easy to feel even more isolated when you’re scrolling through social media and seeing other people seemingly living their best lives. Remember that social media is often a highlight reel, and everyone faces challenges that aren’t always visible online. Don’t compare your reality to someone else’s curated version of life.
7. The way you feel now isn’t how you’ll feel forever.
Feelings of loneliness can feel overwhelming, but they are temporary. Emotions change over time, and it’s important to remind yourself that this feeling won’t last forever. Tomorrow might bring new experiences or connections that shift how you feel.
8. Connecting with people takes time and effort.
Building meaningful relationships doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, energy, and patience to form deep connections with other people. If you feel alone right now, know that this is just one phase, and with time, new bonds can form.
9. You’ve likely felt connected before, and you will again.
Think about moments in your past when you’ve felt close to people, whether with friends, family, or even coworkers. Those moments remind you that connection is possible, and it will happen again in the future. The feelings of isolation you have now don’t define your whole life.
10. Doing things you enjoy can lift your mood.
When you feel alone, engaging in activities you love can help shift your focus and improve your mood. Whether it’s reading, going for a walk, or listening to music, doing something that brings you joy can remind you of what makes life fulfilling for you.
11. It’s okay to spend time alone without feeling lonely.
Being alone doesn’t always have to feel like a bad thing. Learning to enjoy your own company can be a powerful tool for dealing with loneliness. Embracing time by yourself can create a sense of independence and help you feel more grounded.
12. You don’t have to rush to fix the feeling.
It’s natural to want to get rid of loneliness as quickly as possible, but there’s no need to rush. Take your time in addressing how you feel, and don’t put pressure on yourself to “solve” it right away. Acknowledge the feeling, and let yourself move through it at your own pace.
13. You are capable of forming new connections.
It’s important to remind yourself that you have the ability to form meaningful relationships. Whether it’s making a new friend, reconnecting with someone, or joining a group or community, the possibility for connection is always there. You are never stuck in a permanent state of loneliness.
14. Loneliness can teach you about yourself.
Though it’s a tough emotion to go through, loneliness can give you insight into your own needs and desires. It can show you what’s missing from your life and what you want more of. This awareness can guide you toward healthier relationships and personal growth.
