This article was published in June 2020 and may be outdated.
Many of us are lonely. We’re also anxious about the future.
We’re used to connecting to family, friends and others at school, work, church, hockey and football games and other social activities. Until now, we’ve seen connections – something as simple as a birthday party – as a normal part of our everyday life. We took them for granted.
For now, these interactions are no longer a part of our daily lives. But we still have an opportunity to be creative, to reach out, and to connect, if we take the time.
To reduce loneliness and isolation, consider:
- Make connecting part of your routine.
Set a time, or several times, over the course of the day, and call it “social connection time.” This will be a dedicated time when you put aside all distractions and check in or share with others – like on your morning walk. - Make a date.
Book a time for a conversation. Send an email, a message, or just call someone spontaneously, inviting them to a phone date or video chat. - Schedule it.
Just like you would a meeting (or a dentist appointment), write the time in your agenda or put an alert on your phone. “At such and such an hour, I’m going to reach out to a friend, colleague, or family member.” They want to hear from you. - Let yourself be vulnerable.
If you’re craving connection, let others know. Let them know you feel isolated. Deepening your conversations will deepen your relationships.
These tips are courtesy of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Visit their website for more tips and resources.