3 Ways to Avoid Isolation and Loneliness

During the Covid-19 pandemic isolation and loneliness among individuals has been at its highest. There are many ways someone might have these feelings arise, and in the time of quarantine and medical consciousness time spent directly with others decreased greatly. These unwelcomed feelings can also lead to a variety of health issues if prolonged. 

Nobody wants to feel as though they have no one left for them to connect, socialize, laugh, or share life with. The feelings of isolation and loneliness many are experiencing are not uncommon. Many individuals are wanting to seek out ways to rebuild meaningful relationships and feel as though we are part of something bigger than themselves. 

Here are 3 ways to avoid loneliness and isolation!

• Get up and get moving!

Exercise and movement are some of the best ways to relieve our bodies of stress and to improve our dopamine, in other words, happiness level. Taking classes or working out at your local health facility, going for walks, or watching a workout video online are all great ways to get in some exercise. If you have the chance to do your exercise outside, be sure to also take in all that nature has to offer. Make yourself connected to the sun, sky, trees, and fresh air! 

If you have the opportunity, invite your friends or family to join your exercise routine! The partnership or group you build around scheduled exercise gives people something to look forward to. Plus, having those to help motivate you makes exercise even more fun!

• Try something new!

Participation in a new activity, club, or organization can add lots of excitement and fresh connections to your life! Whether you volunteer at a new organization, join an exercise group, or participate in community classes, a new activity can bring in some much-needed enjoyment. This new activity should be something you have fun with and look forward to participating in again.

Additionally, your newfound passion may lead you to meet some wonderful people to connect with. Not only will you already have a shared interest, but with a new organization or club you have a set aside time and place where you both can partake in something you enjoy. From here you could potentially build a friendship out of your structured class or group!

• Reach out to others!

If you are experiencing feelings of isolation and loneliness, there is a good chance others in your life are as well. It is okay to have said emotions, but you do not need to hold onto them for long. Reach out and connect with those who make you happy and joyful. This can be done with a phone call, Zoom session, or even a traditional handwritten letter. Not only with this act make you feel more connected, but those you reach out to will feel loved and appreciated through your thoughtfulness and compassion. 

We all want to feel connected, needed, and supported. Though our loneliness or feelings of isolation may be normal, they are still not appreciated. It is important to remember we are all in this together and there are so many people out there who want you to be at your happiest. There are many ways to build a sense of community and unity in your life. Do not be afraid to start something new, fresh, or even a little intimidating. Your courage to reach out when needed and create passionate purpose in your life could lead you to some of your most cherished moments and memories!

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