A recent survey by the Mental Health Foundation (*) has shown that almost 25% of adults in the UK admitted to experiencing loneliness during lockdown.
The Mental Health Foundation is a leading mental health charity, whose mission is to “to help people to thrive through understanding, protecting, and sustaining their mental health”.
They conducted a survey of 2,221 UK adults to assess how the outbreak is affecting people’s wellbeing (*).
The survey found:
- 24% of adults living under the coronavirus lockdown in the UK said they felt lonely
- 44% of young people aged 18 to 24 said they were experiencing loneliness
- During the lockdown period, feelings of loneliness have more than doubled
In the past, feelings of loneliness have been surrounded by stigma. However, it is more common than you might think. Now more than ever, it is important to be aware of the detrimental effects loneliness can have on our mental health.
Ideas to help with loneliness
Here are some tips for dealing with loneliness, suggested by Mind (**).
- If your home is feeling too quiet, listen to a radio station or podcast
- Self-care – checking in with your general wellbeing can make a big impact on how you are feeling
- Reach out to people you would normally see day to day, through text, call or video chat
- Put up more pictures of people you care about
- Open up to people you are close to, a peer support service or a therapist
At The Eaves, most of our practitioners are offering remote therapy sessions by video call, telephone or email. Being able to talk openly about how you are feeling builds confidence and give you the tools you need to increase your social interactions and reduce loneliness. If you are looking for support during these uncertain times, please call a member of the referrals team on 01483 917000 who will be happy to find a suitable therapist for you.
References:
www.mentalhealth.org.uk/news/almost-quarter-adults-living-under-lockdown-uk-have-felt-loneliness
www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/loneliness/tips-to-manage-loneliness/