This week is loneliness awareness week. As a previous Minister for Loneliness, I understand the issues associated with the effects of loneliness and how difficult it is identifying that someone is lonely. It is why I brought forward ‘Let’s Talk Loneliness’ in 2019 which brought together charities, organisations and businesses including The Marmalade Trust, the Co-op Foundation, the British Red Cross, the Campaign to End Loneliness, Mind, Public Health England and the Jo Cox Foundation to help people talk about their feelings.
Anyone can feel lonely, even in a crowd and surrounded by friends and family. Past polls have shown that not wanting to burden others is the main barrier to people talking about their feeling of loneliness.
There are many and various factors contributing the feeling of loneliness. Some might include:
- losing a loved one
- moving away from friends and family
- losing the social contact and enjoyment people used to get from work
- experiencing health problems that make it difficult for them to go out and do the things they enjoy.
- reduced mobility
Spotting the signs of loneliness can be difficult as it is not something that people often admit to:
- having a significant change in their routine (e.g. getting up a lot later)
- neglecting their appearance or personal hygiene
- not eating properly
- putting themselves down
- not being themselves.
Some people may be aware they're lonely, but just not know what they can about it. If you suspect someone you know may be lonely, you can help by:
· Being there. Simply being there for them can let them know that someone cares. Don't be afraid to ask them how they are feeling or if there's anything you can do to help. Having someone who is willing to listen could be a great comfort.
· Being patient. When someone's lonely, particularly if it's associated with poor mental health or physical health, they may get irritable or feel misunderstood by others. You may need to offer gentle assurance.
· Encouraging and supporting them. Reassure them that it's possible to feel better with the right help. They may need some support to make new social connections or access services designed to tackle loneliness.
If your friend or loved one is elderly, Age UK have produced a helpful guide which includes advice on: How to deal with loneliness
- The causes of loneliness
- Finding someone to speak to
- How older people can make new connections
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/loneliness/how-to-overcome-loneliness/
To go alongside this there is a useful article on caring for someone who is feeling lonely, why and the signs of loneliness. https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/loneliness/caring-for-someone-whos-lonely/
Age UK also provide local clubs and encourage people to join. Older people and their loved ones can also get advice on combatting loneliness by calling their advice line on 0800 678 1602.
It may be helpful if you point them in the direction of their befriending services, such as Age UK's Telephone Friendship Service and face-to-face befriending at local Age UKs.