May 2025 ■
Words by Farai Garayi
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Loneliness can sneak up on anyone, whether you’re surrounded by people or spending time alone. The good news? You’re not alone in feeling this way; there are plenty of ways to shake off that lonely feeling. Now let’s talk about how to deal with loneliness in ways that feel genuine, uplifting, and maybe even a little fun.
Why do we feel lonely?
First off, loneliness doesn’t always mean being physically alone. You can feel lonely in a crowded room or while strolling through social media. It’s more about craving meaningful connections—something more profound than just small talk or double-tapped likes.
The key is recognising that loneliness is a signal (like your brain’s little “check engine” light) telling you it’s time to nurture your social and emotional needs. So, how do you deal with loneliness when it hits? Let’s explore some friendly strategies.
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It’s easy to assume no one wants to hear from you, but chances are, someone would love a random “Hey, how’s life?” text. Reconnect with an old friend, join an online community, or talk with a coworker. Small steps lead to big connections.
Pro tip: If face-to-face chats feel intimidating, start slow—send a meme, comment on a post, or join a low-pressure group (like a book club or hobby Discord).
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Loneliness can sometimes stem from boredom or lack of fulfilment. Instead of waiting for plans to appear magically, create your joy:
Try a new recipe (bonus points if it’s absurdly Pinterest-worthy).
Dive into a hobby—painting, gaming, gardening, whatever makes you lose track of time.
Explore your city like a tourist. You might discover a cool café or park.
When you enjoy your company, solitude feels less like loneliness and more like quality time.
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Helping someone else is a sneaky — and powerful — way to boost your mood. Shifting your focus from your worries to someone else's needs can create a surprising sense of purpose and connection. These small acts of kindness can significantly impact whether volunteering at a local animal shelter or running errands for a neighbour. They trigger the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which reduce stress and strengthen your sense of belonging. Knowing that your actions made someone else's day a little easier is a rewarding reminder that you matter and that you're not alone. Kindness is a two-way street.
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Scrolling through highlight reels makes feelings of loneliness and self-doubt worse. Social media platforms like Instagram often present a filtered reality — carefully curated snapshots of perfect holidays, parties, relationships, and achievements. It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, thinking, “Everyone’s living their best life but me.” But remember, you’re only seeing the best 1% of someone else’s story. Behind those posts are everyday struggles, insecurities, and quiet moments like yours. If you notice that scrolling leaves you feeling more isolated or inadequate, it might be time to take a break.
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Pets are expert snugglers and instant mood-lifters. If you can’t commit to a furry friend, offer to walk a neighbour’s dog or visit a cat café. Unconditional love (and purrs) do wonders.
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Instead of thinking, “I’m lonely,” try, “I’m feeling lonely right now, but it won’t last forever.” Loneliness is temporary, and acknowledging it helps you take steps to shift it.
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If you're feeling overwhelmed, persistently low, or struggling to cope, it's okay to seek professional support — in fact, it's one of the strongest things you can do for yourself. Talking to a mental health professional can help you understand what you're feeling, develop coping strategies, and feel less alone.
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The Guild
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The Guild
Loneliness is a universal human experience, and coping with loneliness starts with small, intentional actions. Every little effort counts, whether reaching out, trying something new, or being kinder to yourself.
So next time you wonder how to avoid feeling lonely, remember: connection is out there—sometimes you must take the first step.
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