What exactly does it mean to feel lonely? Loneliness isn't just sitting on the couch with no friends or plans. According to Global Initiative on Loneliness and Connection, loneliness is a state of mind. It's when you don't feel connected with those around you, and you crave more satisfying social relationships.

In Australia, 1 in 3 people feel lonely at any given time, and 1 in 4 experience persistent loneliness.

But loneliness, isn't just a psychological issue; it can impact your physical health.

In support of Loneliness Awareness Week (5 to 11 August 2024), healthdirect is exploring the causes, health impacts and how to overcome loneliness.

What triggers loneliness?

The causes of loneliness vary. Loneliness may come after losing a loved one, retiring from work or going through a breakup. Other reasons for loneliness may include being bullied, being unsure about your sexuality or having a physical disability.

How can loneliness impact your psychological and physical health?

Loneliness is linked to poor physical and mental health, psychological distress, and generally feeling dissatisfied with life. When you're lonely, you're more likely to have a chronic disease, depression and social anxiety than people who aren't lonely.

Loneliness is also linked to premature death (dying earlier than the average age of death), with a study finding that prolonged loneliness is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day and worse than drinking 6 standard alcoholic drinks a day.

How can you prevent and overcome loneliness?

The impacts of loneliness reveal how important social connections are to leading a fulfilling and healthy life.

According to Lifeline, there are short- and long-term ways to prevent loneliness from becoming a problem, including:

• reaching out to new and old friends
• scheduling regular activities
• keeping yourself busy
• being thankful for what you do or who you have in your life
• considering the benefits and disadvantages of social media
• looking after yourself
• spending time outdoors
• creating a daily routine
• looking forward to some alone time

For more support

• If you, or someone you know, is having suicidal thoughts and is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000). For help and support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
• If you're an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person and feeling down or no good, call 13 92 76 to speak with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander support worker.
• If you need to talk to someone about your mental health, call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
• Contact QLife for counselling and referral service for LGBTIQ+ individuals on 1800 184 527 or chat online.
• Build and improve yoursocial connections with tips from Lifeline and Open Arms.
• Keep busy with volunteering opportunities at govolunteer.com.au.
• Learn how to start exercising.