Loneliness and relationships
Having good relationships with other people is one of the most important protective factors for mental health and counteracts anxiety and depression. We humans have a natural need to be with others and feel a sense of community.
If your social network does not meet the needs you have, there is a risk that you experience loneliness. It is important to point out that there is a difference between loneliness and being alone. On the one hand, you may feel lonely in a group, on the other hand, being alone does not necessarily mean a feeling of loneliness, but it can be a desired and desired state.
Just as good relationships are good for us, loneliness negatively affects our mental well-being. Long-term loneliness can lower self-esteem and make it more difficult to form new relationships. There can be several different causes of loneliness, such as difficulty creating relationships or factors in life such as moving, ending a relationship or having children.
Tips to break loneliness
- Increase your social contacts, e.g. join the Corps, sign up for an activity, start volunteering.
- Make contact with others even though the fear is there and take it in small steps. For example, ask a classmate if they want to eat lunch or study together, or ask if you can join the neighbor on a dog walk.
- Use the internet or social media to find new friends.
- Sometimes professional help is needed. For example, to deal with difficulties such as depression, social phobia or difficulties in creating and maintaining relationships.
If you want to talk to someone about loneliness and relationships or anything else that you are wondering about, contact us at the Student Health Care. We're here for you.
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