Are you feeling lonely?
It is normal to feel lonely from time to time. The important thing to remember is that loneliness does not have to be forever.
- Living alone
- Loss of friends or family
- Chronic health conditions
- Hearing loss
- Mental health challenges
- Life events such as: retirement, job loss or change, or a move to new area
If you’re feeling lonely, there are small manageable changes you can make to connect with others. Like starting anything new, you may be uncomfortable at first, but the more you reach out, the easier it will become, especially when you start feeling the positive benefits of connecting with others.
- Reach out to friends, family members, or neighbors
- Schedule time to connect with others in person, by phone, or online
- Practice self-care and focus on activities you like
- Use positive self-talk and acknowledge good personal qualities and successes
- Find community or support groups online or use social media to connect with like-minded people
- Volunteer for something that interests you
- Get regular exercise and consider joining an exercise group
- If you are able to, consider getting a pet
Sometimes, no matter what we do, we can still feel lonely. If you’ve tried combatting loneliness following some of the suggestions on this webpage, but find that it’s not helping, you’re still feeling lonely, sad, or anxious most days, then it’s time to consult a healthcare professional.
50% of caregivers report feeling socially isolated
While caregiving can be rewarding, it can also bring about increased stress and feelings of being alone, which can lead to burnout and strain. Often, caregivers may slowly or suddenly find themselves taking on the responsibilities of loved ones such as grandparents and young children. As you take care of others, make sure to take time to care for yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Resources to Cope with Lack of Connection
You should reach out to someone you trust to let them know how you’re feeling and/or talk with a doctor or counselor.
- North Range Behavioral Health: (970) 347-2120 and NorthRange.org
- Sunrise Community Health
- Monfort Family Clinic: (970) 353-9403; 2930 11th Ave., Evans, CO 80620
- Adelante Clinic: (970) 313-0400; 1010 A St., Greeley, CO 80631
- Sunrise North Range Clinic: (970) 350-5313; 1300 N. 17th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631
- Salud Family Health Centers: (970) 484-0999
- Fort Lupton Clinic: 1115 2nd St., Fort Lupton, CO 80621
- Frederick Clinic: 5995 Iris Parkway, Frederick, CO 80504