Overcoming loneliness

Loneliness has become one of the most pervasive and least acknowledged problems of modern life.

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Despite living in a world that is more connected than ever through technology, many people find themselves feeling painfully isolated. Psychologists describe loneliness not as a lack of company, but as a gap between the social connection we desire and what we actually experience. Overcoming it, therefore, requires more than simply being around people; it demands a change in mindset, habits, and the way one relates to oneself and others.

The first step toward overcoming loneliness is to recognise it for what it is—a human emotion, not a personal failure. Everyone feels lonely at some point, regardless of their age or social status. Acknowledging loneliness without judgment can itself be liberating, allowing one to view it as a signal that something needs attention rather than a condition to be ashamed of. According to Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, social connection is as vital to health as good diet and exercise. She points out that loneliness is linked to an increased risk of premature death, underscoring the importance of taking it seriously and addressing it with care.