Coping with grief: feelings of loneliness
Grief is a natural reaction to loss or other changes and it can affect us emotionally, cognitively, functionally and behaviourally. Grief is a very individual process and people experience it in various ways.
What is loneliness and how does it affect us?
- Loneliness is a complex set of feelings that occurs when people’s social needs are not satisfied
- It is a subjective experience influenced by one’s personality, life experience and other situational factors
- Loneliness is closely associated with the changing circumstances we encounter throughout our lifetimes (e.g., unemployment, relationship changes, or bereavement)
How to cope with feelings of loneliness
1. Altering our perception
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help us to re-evaluate our perceptions from unhelpful ones to helpful ones. It can also help us manage our emotions better to cope with painful feelings that may arise when experiencing loneliness. You can find a full digital CBT programme in the Thrive app.
2. Communication and emotional support
There are individual differences in how willing or easy it will be for someone to communicate their feelings. However, even for those who find it difficult, it’s important to find at least one person you can share your feelings with. If it is difficult for you to get your thoughts into words, it might help to write a journal. Journaling will help you gain a better understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, as well as the events that surround them.
3. Utilising available support
Join a class or group in your local area, such as an exercise class or book club. This is a great way to meet new people with common interests whilst doing something you enjoy. If you would like to seek further support, contact your local GP, who will be able to provide advice and signpost you to support options.
Credit: This article was written by Thrive Mental Wellbeing. They are a trusted mental health support service that offers accessible, evidence-based tools through their Thrive app and professional therapy services.
