News

Loneliness can affect anyone in a variety of ways, and for many speaking out about it remains a taboo subject. This week with the launch of Loneliness Awareness Week it is hoped more people will get talking about the subject.

This year, with the support of the Trust, the theme of Loneliness Awareness Week is connection. By connecting with people we feel happier and less lonely. It does not even have to be somebody we know. Whether it’s your regular coffee stop, the friendly dog on your walk, or the shopkeeper down the road, everyday moments of connection matter.

Dr Jeremy Sandbrook, Consultant Psychiatrist says, “Connecting with others is vital to us as humans, for our emotional wellbeing and therefore our mental health. Connecting with others is in fact the first of the NHS mental health 5 a day, or "5 steps to mental wellbeing". The others are "be physically active" "learn new skills" "give to others" and "pay attention to the present moment".

“Loneliness is a very big problem in our society. It is a particular problem in some parts of society. Such as rural communities and the elderly. We are living in a more connected world, but within this context communities have sometimes become less connected. We must do all we can to address this.

“There are many ways to link in with the people around you or reach out to those you are close to. There is a growing initiative in Cornwall called the Community Hub project led by Volunteer Cornwall and other community organisations. This aims to create places all over Cornwall where people can meet and link. Initiatives such as this are really valuable. Of course, online is a good place to stay connected and many of us do that. Digital poverty is an issue however, not everybody is connected or can afford to access the internet. There are initiatives ongoing to tackle this, which is vital to allow us all to make the most of the positive aspects that the Internet can bring.”

By getting more people talking about loneliness it is hoped that the stigma attached to the subject will be removed and we can start taking the correct measures towards addressing those negative, lonely thoughts and why they occur in the first place. There are different types of loneliness, from situational loneliness, where you might have moved to a new area and do not feel a connection in unfamiliar surroundings. To emotional loneliness, whether it be in a relationship or within your family. Loneliness can also be triggered by specific life events, such as bereavement or a relationship breakdown.

It is, however, worth remembering that loneliness is not an illness and it can be fixed. While it may feel overwhelming at the time loneliness will pass. Especially if you’re able to tell someone how you’re feeling. It’s about making that decision in the first place to start making connections, so that you can start living a happy life once again.

For some, loneliness can still have a bigger impact on their lives and while reaching out to friends and family can help, you may want to discuss the matter further with a health professional.