Coping With Loneliness (Part 2): Look Outward Melanie Dabb, Jared Hawkins, Christina Pay, Eva Timothy, Cindy Jenkins, and Christine Jensen
The U.S. surgeon general named loneliness a top public health issue in the U.S. (Murthy, 2023). In response, Utah State University (USU) Extension faculty developed four fact sheets to describe some of the most effective ways to reduce loneliness. This second fact sheet suggests simple ways of looking outward to experience greater connectedness. These include increasing social group memberships, connecting through art and laughter, spending time in nature, strengthening friendships, and providing service.
Join and Strengthen Social Groups
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
Social groups can provide individuals with support, opportunities to connect, and a sense of identity and meaning (Jetten et al., 2017). Unfortunately, membership in in-person groups, such as religious and civic organizations, is at an all-time low (Murthy 2023). Additionally, life transitions, such as moves and job changes, can disrupt social groups and lead to loneliness. Research shows that after major life transitions, well-being is maintained to the extent that individuals maintain their membership with existing groups or join new groups (Haslam et al., 2019; Hawkins et al., 2024). Whether you have experienced recent changes to your social groups or simply recognize gaps in your desired social groups, strengthening your social group memberships is always worthwhile. You can start by identifying which social groups you already have and in which groups you would like to feel a greater sense of community. You can then make plans to strengthen bonds within that group. For example, if you want to strengthen relationships with immediate or extended family members or friends, you can start by considering how to better connect in common interests or how you might be able to help them in some way. If would like to be a part of a certain type of group, consider finding a local group or starting a group. 1