During this lockdown period most people unless considered essential workers are following the government guidelines of social distancing and self-isolating. We all know that this is imperative to ‘Save Lives’ and to protect the frontline workers as much as possible. However many people are experiencing loneliness and although it may be true that older people are more vulnerable, it affects all ages and you can also feel lonely if you have a house full of people. You might be a single parent with older children or in an environment where relationships are strained. Whatever situation you are in, being comfortable on your own is tough and in the latest blog from Becoming Aware, with virtual clients throughout the UK, we look at ways to deal with loneliness and to make life a little easier whilst this period of lockdown continues.
What you can do to help cope with loneliness
· Stay in contact virtually
· Plan to do things at home
· Set yourself challenges
· Arrange social events online
· Look after yourself and include some physical exercise
· Structure your days
· Reach out for help
Connect virtually or just pick up the phone
As human beings, we do need connection and with modern day technology, there are lots of video communication tools to keep in touch with family, friends and business colleagues. If all of this is beyond your capabilities, make sure that you talk to a friend or family member every day on the telephone.
Virtual social events and meetings
The Internet will enable you to arrange events online as you could take part in an exercise class such as yoga or Pilates and you can also play games online with your friends including Xbox Live and Nintendo Online. Virtual social events such as having a meal with the family will help you to maintain a positive outlook and will certainly get you to take your mind off things. If you are forced to work from home, keep in touch with your colleagues with video conference calls.
Helplines and support groups
There are also helplines that you can ring including the Samaritans, Mind, AnxietyUK and the government has a page dedicated to wellbeing during the crisis. The NHS also has a link.
Contact a therapist for 1-to-1 help
If you need to contact a therapist, Becoming Aware is connecting with clients virtually through Zoom, Skype, FaceTime or WhatsApp. You will be able to verbally communicate and release your feelings of loneliness and isolation that you are currently dealing with.
Structure your days to keep busy
It’s important to get up and to get dressed and combine this with eating healthily at regular times. You may find that you have time to experiment with recipes and do home baking. The government allows you to exercise outdoors once a day and this could involve a walk, a run or a cycle ride. Take the opportunities to participate in online programmes and perhaps learn new skills, crafts and it’s a great time to read. Limit the time you spend watching the news and perhaps try to just catch up once a day.
My personal experience
I do know what it’s like to feel alone, isolated and lonely. Due to an accident, I was forced to work through long periods of being on my own. I remember it so well and completely understand what a very challenging place it is to be. There does come a point where you get to decide whether you go down with your negative feelings or you rise up, release those emotions and get to truly know yourself and enjoy your own company. After all, you are the one person and the only person that you cannot escape!
How Becoming Aware can help and encourage you during lockdown
Karen Hoad from Becoming Aware has set up the Facebook group, ‘You Are Never Alone’ with the aim of inspiring, encouraging and offering support to anyone who is feeling alone, lonely or isolated. It will get you to learn how to appreciate the value of your own company and to release those negative feelings. You will find it a friendly, warm and welcoming place to feel connected and included.
What to do next
Karen Hoad fromBecoming Aware, based in Eastbourne with clients in East Sussex and virtually throughout the UK is a qualified and experienced Emotional Healing & Wellbeing Practitioner. She has worked with many people who are feeling isolated and lonely and has found that her clients, just by talking things through and releasing their feelings have certainly felt a lot better and not so desperate. Call Karen on 07766 427966 for a without obligation chat or email.
“You cannot be lonely if you like the person you’re alone with.” Wayne Dyer
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