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FRIENDS & RELATIONSHIPS

Feeling Lonely or Isolated

Social isolation and loneliness can happen to anyone. We’re social beings, so it’s completely natural to feel a sense of sadness if we are disconnected from others. Loneliness is a natural symptom of this disconnect. It can make us feel distressed or anxious and affect our mental health.

There are a range of reasons why you might be feeling lonely or isolated - falling out with friends, moving cities or starting at a new school. It’s important to speak out when you feel yourself becoming isolated from others, as long periods of loneliness can have negative impacts on both your mental and physical wellbeing.

Sometimes, social media doesn’t make it any easier. When everyone is posting things all the time, it’s easy to feel left out. Social media can exacerbate feelings of loneliness by setting the standard of socialisation way too high. Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook are all excellent apps that help us connect with friends, however, they can create an unhealthy expectation of constant interaction.

There are no textbook, sure-fire ways to combat feelings loneliness as it’s experienced differently by everyone. Sometimes dealing with loneliness can be as easy as picking up the phone and calling up a close friend or family member. But other times it is not that easy. Our feelings of isolation and disconnect could be indicators of a mental illness. If you feel like loneliness is not something you can’t tackle by yourself, seek professional advice.

Change your perspective and uncover a way forward for you!

Here are some things that can help you with that.

YouTube

Great
reads

The World According to Mister Rogers by Fred Rodgers
Fred Rogers is an enduring presence and beloved American figure; his inspiring collection of stories, anecdotes and insights reminds us there is much more in life that unites us than divides us. This book is highly recommended for anyone feeling a little out of touch or left behind.

We Are Okay by Nina LaCour
We Are Okay centres around college student Marin as she attempts to move on from a tragedy she’s tried to outrun. Marin struggles through the transition into adulthood from her teenage years, and after returning home for the winter, is forced to confront her acute sense of loneliness and disconnect.

Normal People by Sally Rooney
Marianne and Connell are from completely different worlds, but both find common ground in their sense of restlessness and disconnect from the others. This story explores the electric draw of a first love and finding consolation in the unexpected.

Great
Films

The Art of Getting By
George, a lonely teen, has no interest in going to school. Things begin to change for him when he befriends Sally, who gives him enough motivation to attend school.

Wild
One woman hikes alone for 1100 miles solo to recover from tragedy. Protagonist Cheryl Strayed is a recent divorcee, whose long adventure allows her to meet new people and rediscover her strength of self and passion for life on this lone journey.

Napoleon Dynamite
A hilarious classic about a nerdy guy who just wants to fit in. Don't we all...

Spotify

Here’s a playlist that might make you feel not so alone.

Places to find more resources

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