Winter Loneliness : What we can do about it.

Did you know that approximately 3 million people in the UK suffer from loneliness? The pandemic hasn’t helped and according to a recent survey 1 in 4 adults have experienced feelings of loneliness in the last two weeks. (1).

At Brown Paper Packages we want to challenge the stigma associated with loneliness, by shining a light on what it means to be lonely and what we can do to help ourselves or others.

Winter and Covid

Winter can also play a role in loneliness, shorter days and darker nights can make those already feeling isolated even more so. There are less opportunities to socialise in winter months, for example you’re less likely to have a chat with your neighbours if its freezing outside!

Not to mention Covid-19 is contributing to loneliness rates as well especially within the older population. Age UK state that elderly people have become even more isolated, due to being vulnerable to the virus (2). Covid-19 and the winter months arguably can be a recipe for loneliness!

The Psychology of Loneliness

According to the Campaign to End Loneliness, feelings of isolation can have a significant impact on our mental health.(3).

There’s stigma associated with loneliness. That’s why we’re writing this article because we want to banish that stigma. Loneliness can result in feelings of anxiety, fear and shame. These negative feelings can result in someone withdrawing from loved ones. Being lonely can also result in social anxiety and picking up on social rejection cues too readily.

Loneliness itself isn’t a mental health issue but loneliness can result in mental health issues such as anxiety and depression and vice versa.

How to combat loneliness in the winter months

If you don’t feel up to venturing outside, why not call a loved one. Having a chat with a friend over the phone will help you feel more connected and may even boost your mood.
If you don’t feel like talking one on one why not join an online class. This could be anything, a book club, yoga class or a virtual coffee morning.
If you do feel up to going outside, why not join a local walking group?
Mental Health Mates offer regular meet ups to help people to combat loneliness.
Maintain a healthy daily routine, try and get up at the same time each day as well as leaving the house every day if you can.

What help is out there?

The government recently released their 2021 report on loneliness,(4). Within this report they outlined their campaign “Let’s Talk Loneliness” which encourages people to seek support if they’re feeling isolated.
The Samaritans are available on freephone 116 123 or if you don’t feel like speaking on the phone you can email  jo@samaritans.org.
Age UK offer a befriender service, where isolated older people can take part in weekly calls with an AGE UK volunteer. Click here for more information.

Remember there’s no shame in feeling lonely, it can happen to anyone at any time. Remember to be kind to yourself and reach out for help if you need it.

By Christina @Brown Paper Packages