Isolation and loneliness

Loneliness can range from missing your friends and family, to feeling like you’re completely alone. It’s completely normal to feel like this sometimes. But if you find that loneliness is making you very unhappy, or getting in the way of things you want to do, then you may need extra support. 

As teenagers get older, their friendship groups grow and change. This is normal, but it can lead to times when a person feels lonely. Taking steps to connect with others can help. This is one of the five ways to wellbeing, an evidence-based way to improve your happiness.

Coping with loneliness

Loneliness was a problem for lots of people during lockdown. From people working from home to those who have to self isolate, we have all had to learn how to cope better when we are alone.

Now we have the opportunity to see friends and family. This is exciting, but it is normal to feel worried as well. Taking time to take things slowly and talk through your worries can help. Supporting a friend with similar concerns can also help you.

• Talk about your worries with someone you trust or a helpline 
• Don't feel you have to do everything at once
• Take time out if you need it

Often parents feel they need to help teenagers around loneliness. But it is a normal part of growing up and forming your own social group. Bupa has information for parents about loneliness and isolation in teenagers.

If your friends are feeling lonely it can be really frustrating. The NHS have information and great video on how to support friends who are feeling lonely.

Coping with loneliness

Whatever your situation having strategies ready can help you feel less lonely. From keeping active to growing seeds, the are lots of ways to life your mood.

This short and practical video from NHS Surrey has lots of useful ideas.

Practical strategies to beat loneliness 

If you're feeling lonely, being able to find other people may not be the problem. You may be struggling to connect, communicate, or wondering what you can say or do.

The Mix have practical strategies, resources and suggestions to combat loneliness. You might also try:

• Volunteering - this can be a great way to meet people of all ages
• Joining a group or club, or starting to play a new game
• Applying for a part time job or course - alongside your school or college

You may feel that taking another thing on might be more pressure. But people usually find that as they do more things, feel better and become happier, their energy increases. As you feel better, you can do more.