How to Understand and Cope With Loneliness

"Most of us experience moments of loneliness. For some, this is fleeting, while it may be a pervasive feeling for others. It may be mild or so severe as to trigger or exacerbate depression and anxiety. Feeling lonely may result from being alone, but this is not always the case. Being alone We could be alone physically, absent human or animal presence, while engaged in activities such as hobbies, reading, or playing video games."

"Feeling lonely By contrast, feeling lonely is a painful emotion that may arise when we experience a discrepancy between the social connections we desire and the ones we actually have. This discrepancy may concern the number as well as the quality of such connections. We may feel a lack of meaningful connection at work, in friendships, or even with loved ones. This can foster feelings of isolation and even emptiness."

Many people experience moments of loneliness that range from fleeting to pervasive and can be mild or severe enough to trigger or worsen depression and anxiety. Being physically alone can be neutral when engaged in activities and when a person is comfortable with solitude. Feeling lonely is a painful emotion caused by a discrepancy between the social connections a person desires and those actually available, concerning both number and quality. Loneliness can occur in childhood, marriage, and old age. Judgments about being alone or lonely strongly influence its frequency and intensity. Identifying contributing factors is essential to address this emotional state constructively.

Read at Psychology Today