As most commonly defined, loneliness is a persistent and chronic feeling of isolation caused either by distrust or the inability to accept intimacy or by a profound and unshakable feeling of being unworthy of social interaction. More specifically, loneliness is believed to be the persistent feeling of not belonging.
Researchers who conduct loneliness studies face a difficult challenge because much of the data on loneliness is anecdotal and the larger medical community hesitates to define loneliness as a mental disorder. Funding for research is therefore very limited.
Psychologists point out that the feeling of being unwanted and disconnected can be traced in part to genetics as well as to the environment in which a person was raised.
Psychologists have suggested that medication might be developed to target the area of the brain where the darker emotions develop. In the meantime, various outreach programs are offered through universities, workplaces, and religious organizations. Counseling services, support groups, and weekend workshops for the lonely are becoming more widespread.
Lifestyle and environmental changes have been found to be helpful in easing the emotional and physical strain of loneliness. Getting a pet, for instance, or joining a social club or a religious organization such as a church can often help fill a void in an individual’s life.
Mayo Clinic Overcoming Signs of Loneliness
Physical signs of loneliness may include cold or flu-like symptoms that linger longer than usual, headaches, body aches, and insomnia or hypersomnia. With loneliness and isolation, attention is more inwardly focused. You may be more aware of physical symptoms you would have otherwise ignored or brushed off.
If you're experiencing physical signs of loneliness for longer than a few weeks, consider scheduling an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms.
Overcoming signs of loneliness. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/overcoming-loneliness
