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Dealing with loneliness: 5 lifestyle changes you can make today


by Liam Whitehead

Are you dealing with loneliness?

Reduced social interaction can evoke feelings of isolation; particularly during the winter months, when people often retreat to the warmth and comfort of their own homes.

No matter the time of year, many of us are currently dealing with loneliness – with lockdown and self-isolation taking their toll on mental health. So it’s easy to see how, in our circumstances, loneliness is at an all-time high. 

In this week’s blog, we’re looking at some of the best lifestyle changes you can make to help improve your mental health.

 

Dealing with loneliness: stay in touch with your family and friends

In an age of developing technology, we’re lucky to be surrounded by so many different methods of staying in touch. Phone calls, video calls and virtual meeting apps are all great tools for staying connected during times of social isolation. 

If your loved one is new to using smart devices, you could dedicate some time to teaching them everything they need to know about the modern methods of technology. Why not encourage them to read their grandchildren a story via video call, or send them pictures of your children's art and craft masterpieces?

No matter how you do it – via video call/phone call – speaking to your loved one regularly is an effective way of dealing with loneliness.

Get involved in the community (virtually!)

Virtual volunteering has taken the world by storm since the pandemic began, and there are plenty of ways your loved one can get involved. Try encouraging them to sign up for a charity, such as the Adopt a Grandparent programme.

They could also take part in one of the many online fundraising activities available. This will not only provide them with a sense of purpose but also the opportunity to join a community of like-minded individuals.

 

Dealing with lockdown loneliness: Join an online class

If like many people around the world, you’re currently living in social isolation, joining an online class can help you to cope with feelings of loneliness. 

The internet is a treasure trove of engaging courses and classes designed to keep people busy, connected and motivated! From online cooking classes and brush parties to creative writing courses or book clubs, there’s a wide variety available to suit all tastes and preferences.

You could even encourage your loved one to try setting up their virtual activity with their friends – whether that’s to try something new, or simply enjoy a weekly coffee morning to discuss topical issues!

Amongst other benefits, engaging in online classes will help your loved one stay connected, and motivated and retain a sense of purpose and accomplishment – all of which contribute to improved mental health.

 

Remind your loved one that they’re not alone

When you’re alone, you can sometimes be consumed by how lonely you feel – and it can be easy to forget that lots of people are in the same boat. Remembering this fact can be helpful when trying to pick yourself up, and boost those around you.

Try encouraging your loved one to turn this negative into a positive. When they’re feeling lonely, remind them to connect with others who may be feeling the same.

Dealing with loneliness: Take care of yourself

Has your loved one recently taken the time to indulge in self-care? This is a foolproof way to boost mental health and self-confidence and is a fairly easy first step to take when we’re feeling a little low. 

There are plenty of self-care activities to try – from writing in a journal and pampering yourself, to meditating and taking a bubble bath. All of these are great for boosting feelings of appreciation and gratification.

Dealing with loneliness isn’t always easy – but you can help remind your loved one to connect with the wider world with the help of an assisted living device. Using the app, you can send reminders to the device, making sure they don’t forget to call a friend or miss a scheduled online class.  

 

Take a browse around our website and find out more.

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