What are signs of problematic loneliness?
It is important to realize that spending time alone is not necessarily a
bad thing. However, there are instances where unpleasant or negative situations
create an unhealthy amount of loneliness in one’s life. Signs to look
out for include:
- Expressions of sadness or loneliness (verbally or body language)
- Awareness that others are ostracizing or ridiculing an individual
- Frequent crying
- No apparent friends or social contacts
- Loss of sense of desire or motivation to get involved in new situations
What are some suggestions for someone who is feeling lonely?
- Remind yourself that the loneliness will not last forever.
- Look for ways to get involved with people in your daily routine. Eat
with others, sit with new people in class, or find a study or exercise partner.
- Put yourself in new situations where you will meet new people.
- Make use of campus resources. Find out about organizations and activities
on campus.
- Don’t judge new people on the basis of past relationships. Try to
see each person you meet from a new perspective.
- Avoid rushing into close friendships by sharing too quickly or expecting
that others will. Let the process develop naturally.
- Think of alone time as an opportunity to develop independence and to
learn to take care of your own emotional needs.
- Keep things in your environment (such as books, music) that you can
use to enjoy in your alone time.
- Don’t wait for your feelings to get you going – get going,
and good feelings may eventually catch up with you.
For more information about ways to get involved on campus, visit www.events.gvsu.edu. If you would like to speak with someone regarding loneliness, contact the GVSU Counseling Center.
