
Studies suggest that volunteering, for example, helps people feel more socially connected and emotionally fulfilled, which fights feelings of loneliness X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public Go to source If you extend your focus to others, your loneliness may fade. This doesn't mean you shouldn't reflect on your emotions, but it does mean you shouldn't let that become your sole focus. Social research suggests a connection between self-focus and loneliness. More than likely, you won't be hurt from the situation, but you can learn something from it. And if you don't like it, you can opt out.
This may involve getting out of your comfort zone - but you have to think of it as a good thing, a challenge. It's the only way these patterns of loneliness will change. Sign up for that intramural league you've been contemplating at work. Just go looking for opportunities to socialize and take them. Think about what books and movies are your favorite, or where you are from or currently living. Try to connect with people who share the same hobbies or interests as you. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Expert Interview. X Research source X Expert Source Donna Novak, Psy.D There are plenty of resources to connect with others, like local Meetups. The easiest place to start is the internet. However, if these people check in on you, try to keep track of where you go and who you're with, or express concern that you have friends other than them, this is a warning sign.įind people that are like you. You may be so excited to interact with another person that their controlling behavior doesn't initially bother you. They get moody when you try to spend time elsewhere. These people are taking advantage of your vulnerability to profit. You may pick them up from work, do them a favor on the weekend, etc., but somehow they never manage to return the favor. Often, these are early warning sign of abusive people who want to take control of your actions.
They seem "too good to be true." They call you all the time, plan all of your activities, and seem perfect.Signs of people who are not interested in a healthy, mutual relationship include: Sometimes, the vulnerability that comes with being lonely can make you a target of manipulative or abusive people.
Be careful not to seek out bad influences or people who only want to use you. Sometimes, you may be so desperate to get past your feelings of loneliness that you'll take just about any chance that offers itself to be less lonely.