This year the theme is ‘reducing the stigma’ around this very natural human emotion, and focuses on raising awareness of the importance of connecting with others and having open and honest conversations with each other.

Loneliness affects all of us at some point in our lives and it can be triggered by separation from colleagues, friends and family, moving to a new area, starting at a new school, a relationship break-up, or a bereavement. Loneliness can be so debilitating that it affects our physical and mental health, our confidence and our self-esteem. 

For most of us, our experiences of loneliness do not last forever because we’re able to seek support and make the necessary changes to help us cope, but for those who struggle with communication and expression it can be a lonely and isolating time.

Loneliness can sometimes come with a negative label because, for many reasons, we don’t like to admit to it or talk about it. The reality is that anyone can feel lonely, and probably everyone has at some point been through a time of feeling lonely and isolated. Loneliness can make people feel bad about themselves, especially if they struggle to reach out and connect socially with others. If not addressed, it can lead to anxiety and depression, especially in children and young people. 

Loneliness isn’t about who we are with or aren’t with, it’s about how connected we feel to others and how understood we feel. If we feel unseen and unheard, and don’t see evidence that we matter, then the loneliness can be profound.

Loneliness is a natural human emotion, and we are hardwired to need social connection for our very survival. By talking about loneliness and raising awareness of it, we can support ourselves and those around us. 

What people have said about loneliness
“Loneliness is about still feeling alone with nowhere to turn, even when surrounded by lots of people.” 

“Not having people around who you feel understand you.”

“Lonely is not being alone, it's the feeling that no one cares."

What can we do about it
Take the time to notice and reach out to someone if they are quieter than usual or behaving differently.
Pay special attention to those who are new to a group, school, or workplace.
Be kind and show that you care.

If you feel lonely, isolated or sad, take the time to think about where the feeling might be coming from and talk to someone you trust. Be gentle, kind and compassionate with yourself. 
 

Kerry Hulbert  
Oratory School Counsellor