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Article You’re Not Alone: Expert’s Guide To Tackling Loneliness

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With more than one-quarter of Australians experiencing loneliness at some point in their life, healthcare professionals in Australia are joining the World Health Organisation’s global effort to ensure access to healthcare for all.

Did you know that five million Australians report feelings of loneliness? A recent report also found that loneliness is akin to smoking 15 cigarettes a day or consuming six alcoholic drinks per day.

Whether you’re experiencing loneliness, or know of someone who is, Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist and Lifestyle Expert, Andria Aird, shares six tips to help you manage loneliness during challenging times.

“Loneliness can occur for people when they feel sad or disconnected because of a mismatch between the amount of social connection a person needs compared to the amount they are getting. Contrary to popular belief, it can also occur when you are surrounded by lots of people – you don’t need to be lonely to experience loneliness. In fact, plenty of individuals report feeling disconnected in social settings.”

“As such, it’s important to acknowledge any feelings of loneliness or isolation that are occurring, as the health impacts can be significant and may result in depression, anxiety, sleep problems, increased stress and even impaired immunity,” explains Ms Aird.

Whether you try for yourself or share them with a loved one experiencing loneliness, these tips may help support a feeling of connection.

  1. Connect with like-minded people 

This could be joining a club, organisation or sports group that is of interest to you or a hobby – it also brings you together with people who enjoy similar things and connects you with a new crowd that you may not have met otherwise. Consider making new friends virtually – you may be surprised to see how many other individuals are in the same boat as you. As we know, becoming a parent can be daunting and it’s often nice to connect with new parents that are going through a similar journey. This could be a time to try Peanut App or mum2mum.

  1. Stick to your own pace

If you’re not quite ready to join a community group, start small. It could be sharing tea and cake with your neighbour, striking up a conversation with your local barista or setting up a routine walk with a friend that lives nearby.

  1. Find fulfilment through volunteering 

Volunteering is a great way to find purpose, fulfilment and connect with others. This could be volunteering at your children’s school canteen, a women’s shelter, or with a healthcare organisation. Connect with your local community Pharmacist at Blooms The Chemist to find out if they are aware of any local initiatives where you can get involved in the community.

  1. Set a daily routine 

Plan your day out so you feel fulfilled and like you have accomplished something at the end of each day. Ensure that this routine includes meaningful, enjoyable activities that involve connecting with others like daily reminders on your phone or an activity planner – for example take a 30-minute walk before breakfast, schedule overdue health appointments or respond to emails and texts.

  1.  Get some sunshine and move your body 

Exercise releases endorphins which support mental health and wellbeing. Spending too much time inside can have a negative impact on your mental health as it can often lead to feelings of isolation. Instead of driving to pick up your morning coffee, take the extra time to walk. Studies have shown the benefit of Vitamin D to support mental wellbeing and mood, so it is important to spend at least 30 minutes outdoors daily to get a daily dose of sunshine, not only for physical wellbeing but for mental wellbeing too.

  1. Access support in moments that matter

It is important to never underestimate that there are times when the right care and expert advice is needed. As the most accessible healthcare professionals the relationship with your community pharmacy is more valuable than ever, providing a safe place to pop in, have a real conversation and connect with people who genuinely care. Your local community Pharmacist is equipped with the right training to provide expert advice, as well as the care that comes naturally in the best interest of their local community.

“At Blooms The Chemist, we have experienced more people coming into our pharmacies for expert lifestyle tips and advice on how to navigate these challenging times,” explains Ms Aird.

As the most accessible healthcare professionals, Blooms The Chemist has more than 115 pharmacies nationwide where your local community Pharmacist knows the importance of providing accessible healthcare in their communities.

“We recognise our Pharmacists who each day provide access to good health and wellbeing to everyone who walks through our doors. We believe in health for all in each community we’re in, where expert care just comes naturally. If you are feeling lonely or concerned about a friend or family member, we encourage you to pop into one of our pharmacies and speak to our team members,” Ms Aird says.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing emotional distress, help is available. Speak to your local Pharmacist or contact Lifeline Australia 13 11 14. 

This article is shared and powered by mom.Connect

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Comments

  • Lonnie’s is a big issue that not a lot of people talk about. I even find myself getting lonely at times being a single parent and crave it. I think it’s important to listen to yourself but also important to find ways to help eliminate it. I find going for a walk in the sunshine with my favourite music helps.

    Reply

  • Loneliness has been in the news a lot recently.

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  • Great tips

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  • I agree with a routine and sunshine and exercise. It releases all good endorphins.

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  • Great points, but when you are lonely it is very hard to do. When you have just lost your life partner it is very lonely in the house, and it is harder to make friends when you are no longer a couple. Many seem to feel threatened by your single status.

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  • I find it very difficult to mix with people even if I’ve known them for years. I now take me dog for a walk every morning and once a week I go to the local cafe for a coffee and a toastie. I sit alone but it suits me. They know me so well that when I walk in and they’re busy they just say “Usual” and then tell me to take a seat. Once it’s ready they bring it to me and I pay as I’m ready to leave. (You actually pay when you place your order) It may not seem like much but it really does brighten my day

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  • I’d be interested in reading the study that says it’s akin to smoking 15 cigarettes or drinking 6 alcoholic drinks a day – how have they compared that? Surely lonliness doesn’t cause cancer?

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  • Can really relate to this article

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  • This is me I dont hardly go out only to the Dr or specialists appointments or grocery shopping thats basically it. I do not like and dont feel comfortable going to groups I dont have any friends and dont have any parents as they have both passed away and my sister has nothing to do with me at all. So some days are like very lonely but I feel more safe staying home then going out.

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  • Loneliness is a serious issue in our society at the moment and social media has not helped despite making think we are connected. It can seem scary but being proactive in reaching out to others and initiating can really help rather than feeling like people don’t want to spend time with you.

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  • I find it really hard to make friends. Every time I try, it seems like I’m the more committed one and they ultimately ditch me.

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  • Great tips in this article but not always easy to do when you are in a rut and feel lonely. I do agree, some sunshine always helps me when I am feeling lonely

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  • Some really great points here You definitely can feel lonely even surrounded by people.

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  • I sure can relate. We’ve had lots of drama with my 13yr old (foster) daughter who’s behaviour has been escalating and deteriorating last couple of years. Her behaviour is often very dangerous, and the trajectory and gravity of her crimes are greatly concerning. It has become extremely hard to find the right help. Who in the world can relate to that; people get scared hearing from it. Often I don’t feel safe myself.
    It’s a lonely road to walk

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  • Great article here. Its something we all experience at some point in our lives. I think having a daily routine is a big help

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  • We all have to do our bit in helping and noticing people that are lonely. Maybe that person comes along to the craft group but may need an invite to coffee afterwards etc.

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  • I love my daily trip to the coffee shop, if its a non work day we walk down and get takeaway and go to the park. On a walk day I drive down get my coffee and continue to work. It just gets my day off on a happy note as everyone knows my regular order :)

    • I have a coffee routine which sets up my day too.

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  • Having a friend or someone you trust to talk to just makes the world of difference

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  • Good points all, but sometimes it’s just so hard to find someone you connect with as a friend.

    Reply

  • Church is always a great place to connect if you are lonely.

    Reply
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