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Clic li ni calilpsyc ho log isthl it ANGUS MUNRO explains li how to feel less lonely and isolatedolated day-to-day

We can all experience moments of loneliness throughout our lives, whether it be after a loved one has passed or if it’s a struggle to catch up with friends and family. But sometimes loneliness can stem from psychological conditions such as social anxiety and depression.

“Loneliness doesn’t only affect people who don’t have others in their life,” says psychologist Angus Munro. “You can be in a stable relationship and interact with lots of people you know well and still feel lonely.” Here are some ways y to combat the cloud.

GET COMFORTABLE WITH SOLITUDE

The most important tool is to feel more comfortable being alone. “Often when loneliness is acute, we’re craving validation from others because we can’t give it to ourselves,” says Angus. “Our own self-criticism may mean our only emotional security is from others. Be more self-compassionate. Treat yourself like someone you deeply care about.”

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY

If your loneliness is more focused around not having a social circle, have a look at social activities websites like meetup.com, or even Facebook groups. “Wherever you live you will find a group of people who share your interests,” Angus insists. “This can be a lowpressure way to explore connecting with others. Whether you like stamp collecting or naked yoga, you will find a group that fits you.”

USESE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA MORE EFFECTIVELY

Have ave a look at your social media edia contacts and ask yourself urself what percentage of those ose have you had a one-onone e conversation with, either in person or at least on the phone, hone, in the past 12 months. “You ou might find it a shockingly low w percentage,” says Angus. “Optimise ptimise this. Start small. Contact ontact people you like but haven’t ven’t had contact with for a while. Say you’re checking in and d ask them a question or two to keep the interaction going. If you get a positive response, reply ply saying it’d be great to catch tch up and ask how they’re placed aced in the near future.”

SHARPEN YOUR SOCIAL SKILLS

Feeling a bit rusty about connecting? “Assume the personp person you’re talking to likes you”you,” you,” says Angus. “You might be surprised how this simple idea can boost your confidence. Also, ask questions to reduce your nervousness. Look for little details in what they say to see what you’re interested in knowing.” Everyone knows something interesting you don’t, so draw it out of them – they’ll enjoy it, too!