In the modern, fast-paced culture in which we live, the question of how to combat loneliness is a pressing one for people of all ages. To say that the pandemic changed us is an understatement. The global confinement and aftermath of the 2020 crisis brought a sudden end to our life plans and social relationships, leaving many of us feeling isolated and alone.
Emerging from that post-pandemic context of seclusion was an unquestionable challenge. According to a global survey conducted by Statista in 2022, about 33% of adults worldwide experienced a feeling of alienation, and nearly 46% of respondents in some countries admitted to feeling lonely from time to time.
The psychological effects of social isolation can have dire long-term effects, with increased health problems, cognitive decline and premature mortality. Not to mention depression and anxiety when interaction with other people decreases.
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How to combat loneliness, according to experts #
Unlike other problems that can affect people’s mental health, social interaction and loneliness are difficult to measure. But if you’re going through a phase of isolation, being clear about your purpose can help you build a solid shield against loneliness.
According to a recent study, the feeling of loneliness is less frequent in people who claim to have a purpose in life, regardless of their age. For this research, conducted by scientists at Washington University in St.
Louis, more than 2,300 adults in Switzerland were surveyed and asked to rate their feelings of lack of companionship and understanding, of isolation from others, of feeling “left out or ignored” over a four-week period. Respondents were also asked to complete a test in which they were asked to rate statements such as “there is no purpose in my life” or “I value my activities too much”.
The conclusion reached by the researchers was that having a purpose in life, whether it is a goal with high expectations to set you apart from others or a simple goal of a more personal and humble kind, can offer you a powerful antidote to loneliness.
How to find your purpose #
Unlike other problems that can affect people’s mental health, social interaction and loneliness are difficult to measure. But if you’re going through a phase of isolation, being clear about your purpose can help you build a solid shield against loneliness.
Certain habits or hobbies like participating in a sports league, joining a book club or volunteering with an association or NGO – which involves interacting with other people – can fill that void of purpose in your life.
So the next time you feel that sense of existential loneliness, find something to look forward to, whether it’s planning a trip, working on a gardening project or even helping a friend fix up his or her house.
