LIFE

Whether your bestie just moved across the country or the adjustment from middle to high school has been rougher than expected, we have news for you: Loneliness is something that everyone (yes, everyone) experiences. 

In Matt Haig's The Comfort Book, he writes: "The comfort, then, is the weird truth that in one sense we have most in common with others when we feel awkward and alone. Isolation is as universal as it gets." What Haig says in his book could not possibly be more true. Feeling isolated or lonely is something every person can relate to.

But as common as loneliness is, the truth is that things do get better, and there are always ways to shift your mindset. Keep reading for ways to cope with those feelings of loneliness...and maybe even rewrite the narrative for yourself and learn to love being alone!

Take a social media break

Step one of learning to cope with loneliness? Finding the roots of the problem. And although we adore certain aspects of social media (like scrolling through the GL Insta feed), the inevitable comparison that comes with scrolling through your socials can be isolating. Of course, you don't need to delete your socials altogether, but it might be good for your mental health to take a break from seeing pics of parties or hangouts every once in a while. Make it a point to take a social media-free day (or even just a few hours) a week to make more time for yourself instead.

Volunteer 

When you feel down or alone, one of the best ways to cope is to volunteer and help others. Volunteering can introduce you to a new community of kind people, increase your self-confidence and make you feel like you're making a change in the world (bc it's true: you will be making a difference!). Whether your local preschool could use an extra set of hands or a nearby soup kitchen is in need of servers, there are likely *tons* of volunteer opportunities in your area.

Try something new 

If your usual school, home, repeat sched is starting to feel boring, it's time to put yourself out there and try a new activity. Are there clubs at your school that interest you? Activities at a local rec center? Maybe you can take an after-school pottery class or join the school paper. It may seem scary at first, but leaving your comfort zone to meet new people will be sooo worth it.

Take *yourself* on a date

Who said you need an S.O. to go on exciting dates? PSA: It's time to normalize showing yourself some love. Once you take yourself out and have some fun, you'll learn to love your own company (at least a little more). And if you just can't decide how to spend your very first solo date, we've got you covered with a super fun quiz. 

Do what Y-O-U love

This is your sign to notice what Y-O-U love and incorporate more of it into your life. Whether you start a new knitting project or have always loved tending to plants, there's nothing like a passion project to getting your mind off things. Plus, you never know—doing what you enjoy can gravitate you toward new friends who simply get you.

Feeling more than just a little lonely?
If you or someone you know is struggling, there are resources available:

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988
Crisis text line: Text HOME to 741741 to reach a Crisis Counselor 

by Eva Mandelbaum | 5/5/2023