Loneliness. It’s a part of life. Let’s talk about it.
We are all affected by loneliness at times in our lives. The Better Health- Every Mind Matters Loneliness campaign aims to normalise feelings of loneliness to reduce the stigma so people feel able to seek help and support.
We are all affected by loneliness at times in our lives. Everyone should know they are not alone and help is available.
Following the success of last year’s national campaign, which encouraged people to support others feeling lonely, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport today launched the next phase of their six-week loneliness campaign activity, as part of the Better Health – Every Mind Matters campaign.
Research shows that 16 to 24 year olds are the loneliest age group but also the least likely to take action to help themselves. In fact, figures show that nearly half of students admit they’ve hidden their feelings of loneliness for fear of being judged.
The campaign aims to normalise loneliness as a part of life and to reduce the stigma of loneliness that often prevents people from accessing support. The campaign encourages young people to talk about feelings of loneliness, reminding them of things they can do to help and pointing to the Every Mind Matters web page where users can find more support and advice.
Feeling lonely is completely normal. Many of us can feel lonely while checking our social media, on our own or with others. It is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of.
Sometimes admitting we feel lonely can be hard but it’s important to remember that many others experience similar feelings of loneliness too, and that this feeling can pass.
If you are feeling lonely, or know someone else who is, there are plenty of simple, affordable actions you can take, such as:
- going for walk with someone;
- inviting someone out for a coffee and a chat;
- finding out about affordable events nearby;
- going along to a gym class or playing in a sports team;
- joining a society or local community group to meet like-minded people; and
- reaching out to those around you so you can both feel the benefits of in-person social connection.