There is currently an epidemic of loneliness impacting people in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about half of all adults in the U.S. report measurable feelings of loneliness. Ironically, this comes at a time when people are more connected digitally than ever before. However, chatting with someone online clearly isn’t as fulfilling as interacting with them in person or even over the phone.
Sadly, seclusion increases the risk of mental and physical health problems, including depression, dementia, heart disease, and stroke. Given that half of the population experiences loneliness, you probably know at least one person who feels this way. It could be an elderly neighbor who’s stuck at home due to physical limitations or a family member wrestling with a chronic illness. No matter what the situation may be, you can make a difference in others’ lives by simply choosing to be kind. Here are some ways you can defeat the loneliness epidemic with kindness.
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Be There During Hard Times
Often, the most solitary times occur when you’re sick or injured and stuck at home or in a hospital bed. If you know someone who’s sick or recovering from surgery, make an extra effort to be there for them. It might be inconvenient for you to stop by their home or the hospital after work or a long day of tending kids. However, your small effort could have a huge impact on their life and sense of value.
While your friend will appreciate your company alone, you can sweeten the situation by bringing sympathy gifts along with you. A traditional bouquet of flowers with a card is always nice. Or you could go above and beyond and bring a basket full of comfort food items like soups, cookies, and rolls. In the end, it doesn’t really matter what you bring because the thought alone will warm your loved one’s heart and help melt away their loneliness.
Reach Out Regularly
It’s easy to get so caught up in your own life and responsibilities that you’re oblivious to the suffering of others. You can’t very well fight the loneliness epidemic if you don’t know what’s going on in the lives of other people. By simply reaching out and talking to others regularly, you can help them feel loved and seen.
For example, set a standing appointment in your calendar to call your parents at least once a week. Empty nesters often feel isolated without their children in the home. You can help make the adjustment much easier for them by staying in touch. Similarly, visiting an elderly neighbor each week or helping a single mother with household chores can help them feel less alone. As a pleasant bonus, you’ll benefit from their companionship, as well.
Invite Someone to Dinner
Fighting the loneliness epidemic doesn’t have to be a complicated endeavor. It can be as simple as inviting someone to have dinner with you and your family. There’s nothing quite as comforting as sitting around a dinner table with others and enjoying good food. So, if you’re wondering how to help an aunt who recently lost her husband or a neighbor who just got divorced, ask them to dinner.
Don’t worry if you’re not a gourmet cook. It doesn’t really matter what you offer for dinner. Whether it’s a roast or a pot of mac and cheese, your guest will probably feel grateful for the invite. You could even ask them to bring a side dish along with them. They’ll probably have no problem doing this and may even appreciate the opportunity to participate. Feeling needed can combat isolation and provide a greater sense of purpose and importance.
Bring Your Pets Over to Play
Pets can have a positive impact on mental health and brain function. According to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, evidence shows that pets can help people feel more socially connected. That’s why they’re often used to enhance various hospital and addiction recovery programs. Unfortunately, not everyone has the budget, physical ability, or desire to take on the monumental task of caring for a pet full-time. That’s where you can step in and make a difference.
If you have a dog, cat, or even a hamster, your animal may help someone else feel less isolated. Consider bringing your pet to a friend or neighbor’s house who’s feeling discouraged or alone. Of course, make sure the other person likes animals and isn’t allergic to them before you do this. After a while of playing with or cuddling your pet, you may see a noticeable difference in their mood. If all goes well, ask if they’d like you to visit with your pet regularly.
Many people who feel lonely choose to suffer in silence because they’re embarrassed to admit their struggles. Therefore, you may need to pay close attention and watch for symptoms like social disconnection, low self-esteem, and sadness. If you think someone you love is feeling alone, don’t be afraid to reach out. Your acts of kindness could make a huge difference in their life. Use the tips above to remind a lonely loved one how valued and cared for they are.
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