Coping With Loneliness (Part 1): Look Inward Melanie Dabb, Jared Hawkins, Christina Pay, Eva Timothy, Cindy Jenkins, and Christine Jensen
Experiencing loneliness sometimes is part of the human experience. It reminds us of our need to connect with others (Murthy, 2020). However, when experienced long-term, loneliness can lead to detrimental impacts on physical, mental, and emotional health. For this reason, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory in 2023 naming loneliness as one of the most pressing public health concerns in the U.S. The report states that loneliness “is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day” (Murthy, 2023, p. 25).
This “Coping With Loneliness” fact sheet series addresses the most effective ways to enhance connectedness: • • • •
Part 1 – Look Inward Part 2 – Look Outward Part 3 – Focus on What You Can Change Part 4 – Support Others Who Experience Loneliness
As grim as this sounds, there is hope. Studies show simple interventions can improve feelings of connection, including improving social skills, identifying opportunities for social interaction, and addressing negative thoughts about yourself and others (Cacioppo & Hawkley, 2009). In a series of four fact sheets, Utah State University (USU) Extension faculty compiled some of the most effective ways to enhance connectedness. This first fact sheet describes ways of looking inward that can reduce loneliness. These include identifying sources of loneliness, increasing acceptance, practicing mindfulness, seeking solitude, practicing self-reflection, and practicing self-care.
Identify Why You Are Lonely Loneliness has been defined as the discrepancy between one’s desired and actual social connection (Cacioppo & Hawkley, 2009; Peplau & Perlman, 1998). There could be several reasons you may experience a discrepancy between the connection you want and the connection you have, including relationship loss, life changes, identity-based marginalization, relationship stress/conflict, physical or mental health issues, and more. 1