Do you have a loved one struggling with loneliness? Stick around to the end for advice on how to get a friend into counselling.
Loneliness is never easy and the problem is only getting worse. Over the last year, as the cost of living crisis has forced more people to work longer hours while having less money to spend, an increasing number of people are being pushed into a position where they feel isolated and alone. Add this to our ageing population and it’s no surprise that loneliness is one of the fastest growing mental health issues of our times.
That being said, if you or a loved one are experiencing loneliness then there are some simple and effective solutions you can try.
Finding Communities
When it comes to loneliness, the internet really is a double edged sword. On the one hand, the shift away from face to face interaction and, in many cases, the lack of physical spaces in which to meet and talk with new people, can feel extremely isolating. At the same time, the internet is very well equipped to help you find communities with similar interests if that’s what you’re looking for.
While it might seem daunting at first, joining social media communities on sites like Facebook and Reddit can be an excellent way to make some new friends. For those who experience social anxiety, Reddit in particular can be a great place to open up, as anonymous usernames are commonplace and there are a number of communities built specifically around finding new people. These include:
- Casual Conversation
- Meet People
- New Friends
- Friendship
Reaching Out To Old Friends
Alternatively, if you haven’t tried it already, it’s always worth reaching out to old friends. Most people are on social media these days and, even if you haven’t spoken in a while, there’s nothing odd about sending a message to an old friend to see what they’re up to. You never know, they might be in the same position as you!
Going To Counselling
If you suffer from severe social anxiety, or other problems that are preventing you from finding friends/forming friendships then you might want to consider going to counselling. Many people are reluctant to go to counselling due to the stigma attached, but the truth is that if you want to work through an issue there’s really no better way to do it.
Trying To Get A Friend Into Counselling?
If you know someone who’s struggling with loneliness then you may want to bring up the idea of counselling. It can be hard to get a friend into counselling, especially if they’re reluctant to the idea to begin with, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth trying. Oftentimes the best way to get a friend into counselling is to share your own counselling experience. This can show them a practical way in which counselling has helped someone near to them to grow and work through their own problems.
For advice and assistance on how to get a friend into counselling, contact EASE Wellbeing today at 020 3633 6653.
