EXPERT TIPS FOR STAVING OFF SADNESS
As the statistics and personal stories show, the epidemic of loneliness is universal: it can reach people of any age, in any situation, and of any means. Fortunately, though, there are small steps any of us can take to avoid falling into the trap.
“It can sound obvious, but what you have to do is to create connections, because during Covid, people might feel like they are burdening others by getting in touch.
“Learning sites online are good for this, so is volunteering and mentoring, because everybody, young or old, has something to contribute,” says Sir Cary Cooper, professor of organisational psychology and health at Manchester Business School.
While Zoom and Skype can be a help, Prof Ken J Rotenberg of Keele University urges people to prioritise face-to-face meetings where possible, or at least choose spontaneous conversation over email and messages.
“You can walk with a friend at the moment, and as a social psychologist I know that [in-person contact] is the most viable way of decreasing loneliness,” he says. “The more you can have either a continuous dialogue, like a phone call, or direct contact, the better.”
Prof Cooper is quick to point out that chronic loneliness can easily develop into depression and anxiety, meaning the same things we know are good for general mental wellbeing are just as useful for battling loneliness.
“If you can, you need to get out of the house, because you need sunlight, especially at this time of year.
“You also need exercise, even just a walk. You might want to stay in the dark, but you just cannot.”