Looking after our mental health is crucial to our wellbeing, a new study found that almost 3 million people in the UK reported feeling lonely most of the time. After two years of lockdowns, a pandemic and significant changes to our lifestyle, people are struggling with loneliness more than ever.
But how does loneliness affect our mental health? And can feeling lonely impact our health goals? Read on to find out more:
What is loneliness?
Although the definition of loneliness is very personal, generally loneliness can be defined as the state of mind we’re in when our needs for social contact and forming relationships are not met.
Loneliness should not be confused with being alone, as many people are surrounded by others and have managed to form relationships while still being lonely. On the other hand, others may find comfort in minimal social contact and interactions.
What causes loneliness?
Loneliness looks different from one person to another, and every person will experience loneliness in their own way. Although we can’t know exactly what causes loneliness, here are some common reasons:
- Situational factors: This comes from experiencing situational events such as moving to a new city, separation or divorce and physical isolation. Bereavement and grief can also cause feelings of loneliness.
- Internal factors: Sometimes loneliness can be a sign of other issues such as depression or low self-esteem.
Managing Loneliness:
There are many ways people can reduce feelings of loneliness including:
- Make healthier choices: Diet and exercise play a big role in our hormonal functions and can significantly impact how we feel. Make sure to exercise regularly and move frequently, as this promotes the release of endorphins which trigger positive feelings in the body.
- Hydration is also key and may impact mood. Not a big fan of drinking water? Try our water enhancer from exante to make hydration easier than ever!