How to Kill the Power of Loneliness

Loneliness can cause an overwhelming feeling of isolation and emptiness. People experience loneliness for various reasons, such as the loss of a loved one or close companion. Shyness or social anxieties can also invoke loneliness, because people in this situation may have difficulties meeting new people and establishing lasting relationships.

Instructions

• 1

  Spend time with family. Call up family members such as a parent, sibling or cousin and make plans for an evening. Go to dinner, invite them to your home for game night or plan some other type of outing.

• 2

  Accept invitations. Battling shyness or a social anxiety may prompt you to reject social invites. Rather than decline invitations to gatherings or other events, accept these invitations, and then ask the host if you can bring a plus one or friend. Having someone tag along can put you at ease and help you meet new people.

• 3

  Volunteer or find employment. If loneliness results from lack of social interaction, explore ways to get out the house and meet new people. Volunteer your time at a local hospital, community center or library, or find a job outside the home.

• 4

  Join a local club. If you enjoy reading consider joining a book club. Join a local gym and frequent the workout classes; or take dance or art classes and enroll in a group course.

• 5

  Get a pet. If loneliness worsens in the evenings because you live alone, consider getting a roommate or a pet to keep you company and bring extra life to the home.

• 6

  Deal with social anxieties. If unable to manage social anxiety on your own, talk to your doctor about natural herbs or prescription medications to help relieve depression and anxiety. Overcoming social fears can give you the strength to meet new people and develop friendships.