Why do we experience loneliness when single?
a) Circle of friends shrink when married friends prioritise family/spouse
b) Can feel left out/a third wheel when friends bring their partners/spouses out to meet them
c) Social expectations that adults should be married by a certain age, ostracised/questioned otherwise
How does loneliness affect singles?
The absence of a meaningful romantic connection, coupled with a dwindling friend pool, can leave some singles feeling unfulfilled, isolated, and disconnected from the world around them. In the long run, this could lead to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
They may also use negative coping mechanisms such as excessive alcohol consumption, binge eating, or other unhealthy behaviours that could jeopardise their health. In the long run, they may develop health issues such as cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases.
How to overcome the sense of loneliness?
1. Focus on personal growth
a. Take time to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, values and aspirations. Thereafter, you may choose to further build on your strengths, learn strategies to overcome your weaknesses or work on some of your valued aspirations in life.
b. Continue to learn and expand knowledge and skills through reading and taking courses/workshops. Developing a curious mindset and love of learning is important for self-development.
c. Practice self-care (i.e. eat well, sleep well, exercise, manage stress) to help maintain your overall well-being.
2. Have a strong support network
Be proactive in maintaining relationships with your network of friends, family or loved ones. This will help to provide companionship when you feel lonely can reduce feelings of loneliness
3. Get out of your comfort zone and form new connections
Staying within your comfort zone may lead to missed opportunities to gain new experiences, get to know and network with new people, and to form new relationships. Joining interest groups or hobbies to meet like-minded people can help to form new connections and friendships to reduce your sense of loneliness.
4. Manage your expectations
Avoid over-idealising the notion that being in a relationship can resolve your sense of loneliness completely. The truth is, being in a relationship can have its own challenges too.
5. Seek professional guidance
Loneliness can stem from underlying issues such as social anxiety, low self-esteem and difficulties with managing interpersonal relationships. Consulting with a psychologist can help you to identify underlying issues and learn strategies to overcome them.
