25 Easy Ways to Overcome Feelings of Loneliness

Loneliness is a common and natural human emotion, but it’s essential to find ways to overcome it and foster meaningful connections. In a world that is more connected cell phones and social media, feelings of isolation can still arise.

While it’s normal to feel lonely or isolated from time to time, too much loneliness can be unhealthy or even dangerous. When we’re feeling lonely, we assume that everyone else has more exciting stuff going on in their lives than we do. Whether this is true or not, we convince ourselves that we shouldn’t bother them.

The problem with loneliness is that it can get worse over time. You stop relating to people and choose to spend more and more time alone. All that alone time means you begin to lose your social skills which makes it harder to make new friends. Loneliness drains your energy and can make problems or irritants seem even bigger to you.

Social isolation and loneliness can increase your chances for heart disease, stroke and early death. One study reported that being socially isolated was associated with a 60% to 70% greater chance of death over seven years. Some researchers have even suggested being isolated or lonely is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes per day.

Humans are social beings. We yearn to be accepted and loved by others. It’s normal to desire a partner who reciprocates your love. It’s not easy to learn how to deal with loneliness, but there are many things you can do to regain a sense of worth and belonging.

Fortunately, there are simple and effective strategies to combat loneliness and build a supportive social network. Here are 25 easy ways to overcome feelings of loneliness and cultivate meaningful connections.

1. Facetime (or Skype) – I love having conversations with my kids and seeing their faces.  My brother and sister and I have started to have group conversations on Sunday evenings.  We used to call mom on Sundays, but now that mom is gone, we are staying connected by chatting together.  We see each other and other members of the family as well.
2. Write a Letter – Especially if you know older people, they really appreciate letters. My 97 year old aunt used to send letters to me and about 40 other relatives each week.  She never used the computer and appreciates getting mail and photos now. Sending her a letter and printing photos from recent adventures is a great way to keep in touch and I can imagine her reading the letter too.
3. Call a Friend -Instead of texting, make a phone call. I love to catch up with friends.  Let someone know you are thinking of them and give them a call. It’s nice to hear a familiar voice from an old friendship and share stories and memories.
4. Explore online communities – Engage in discussions, join groups, and build virtual connections on social media. Bloggers love to have people read what they wrote.  Write a comment and engage in a conversation with real people. Maybe you will begin to make new friends virtually with social media.
5. Walk the Dog – Mine is currently sleeping on the couch, but getting outside in the fresh air will be good for me and him. Exercise releases endorphins which make you feel good. You just may engage in positive social interactions by simply saying hi to a neighbor.
6. Coloring Book – The pages in the books can be a type of meditation.  Listen to cheerful music or an intriguing podcast. Focusing on something like coloring will keep you in the present moment and away from the anxiety of the news.
7. Read a Book – Download a good read from the library onto the Libby app for free. Amazon’s assortment of books is extensive with book reviews. Self-help books to help you build confidence confidence in social situations can enhance your ability to connect with others. Check out my post on BEST books for grievers HERE.
8. Do a Puzzle – I haven’t done one since my dad used to set them up in the dining room on a card table when we were kids.  I wanted to do something with my hands in the evening so I started a 1000 piece puzzle.  It was actually really fun.  There is a great sense of accomplishment when you find that piece you have been looking for.
9. Play a Game – If you are alone, Words with Friends on my phone is my go to game.  It is like scrabble and you can play with a friend or the program will find someone for you to play with.
10. Create a routine- Establishing a daily routine can bring structure to your day and provide a sense of purpose. This can include doing things on a regular basis like exercise classes, work, hobbies, and social activities.
11. Netflix – Binge watching a series during those cold or rainy days while cuddled under blankets in your pjs with popcorn can keep your mind off feeling lonely. Some favorite series I’ve watched recently are in this post 25 Best TV Shows.
12. Clean the House – Just kidding!
13. Make a To Go box – My closet is still cluttered with winter clothes and shoes I wore for work in New York. With all my Amazon deliveries this month I have designated one box just for charitable donations. Finding at least one item each day to add to the box is my goal. Once the box is filled, off it goes. No second thoughts.
14. Toss Papers – I will put on a timer and go through the stack of papers.  Toss, shred, file or act on.  I do have an issue with too many papers. Giving myself small timed tasks keeps my mind occupied and thus off feelings of accomplishments, not loneliness.
15. Plan a Trip – For the summer of 2024.  Where would you like to visit? Check out the websites, read some blogs, pin the blogs onto a new Pinterest Board.  I’m researching cruises to Alaska for next summer. It’s fun to look forward to something exciting! Check out one of my favorite trips! Best 12 days in South Africa without renting a car
16. Cook – Look up recipes using ingredients you have in the refrigerator right now. If you simply go to google and type in a few ingredients, recipes show up. Be creative and enjoy.
17. Adopt a Pet- Nothing helps feeling lonely more than sharing space with a pet. Their unconditional love, unpredictable funny behaviors and cuddle factor are unbeatable. If you cannot adopt, maybe you can volunteer to walk dogs at a local shelter instead.
18. Talk to Strangers- Don’t be afraid to engage in conversations with other people, but first you have to go out where the people are. Tasting foods in Costco can be a fun way to start sharing ideas on new foods to try with strangers.
19. Look at Old Photos- You aren’t always lonely and looking at old photos can be a fun way to reminisce over fun memories with others.
20. Go Shopping- I always have fun shopping at Farmer’s markets or craft fairs. People are eager to chat at these places with booths and you will learn a lot by engaging in conversations about their business.
21. Reach out to a Lonely Person- Do you know someone who has lost a spouse or seems a little lonely? Reach out to maybe have lunch or take a walk in a park. Wouldn’t you like it if someone invited you out?
22. Visit a museum or zoo- You can do this alone and still have a fun time. As you enjoy the sights you can share your impressions with new people near by. It’s important to get out and interact with others. Visiting a new place you may meet other lonely people who share similar interests
23. Join clubs or groups– Find local or online clubs or groups that share common interests. Whether it’s a book club, sports group, or hobby enthusiasts, connecting with like-minded individuals can alleviate loneliness.
24. Take a warm bath- imagine the nice warm tub like a warm hug embracing your alone time. Engage in a little self-pampering because you deserve it.
25. Volunteer– Research community organizations looking for volunteers and sign up. Schools often have a volunteer program to read to children. Nursing homes have opportunities and so do food banks. Sometimes just buying a bag of food to bring to the food bank can help you put life into perspective.

After becoming a widow I experienced my share of loneliness.

One of the best ways to battle chronic loneliness as a widow was accepting any invites, even if I didn’t really feel like going out. I understood that my loneliness could easily turn into depression. Take those baby steps to get out and begin engaging with others, and it will get easier.

What are you going to do today to battle loneliness?