How to combat loneliness this Mental Health Week

Mental Health Awareness Week (Monday 9th – Sunday 15th May) seeks to inspire action to promote the message of good mental health for everyone, and this year the focus is loneliness.

You aren’t alone in feeling alone, most of us have experienced loneliness at some point in our lives. We know that loneliness is closely linked to poor mental health, so there has never been a better time to start building new relationships and spending quality time with loved ones.

In this blog we look at ways that can help you start those important conversations and encourage new relationships to blossom, all whilst combating loneliness and raising awareness.

Join a Group or Club

Your communities will usually offer a variety of different groups and clubs which can lead to meeting people with common interests to you.  Even if you don’t make friends right away it’s great to get out and about and is the first step to a new social circle.

Ask Open Questions

Have you noticed a colleague or neighbour that you see every day whilst walking the dog or pass in the corridor? Why not challenge yourself to spark a conversation? Using open questions like, “how are you feeling today?” or “What are you planning for the weekend?” can really help to find common ground and enables you to learn about the other person and a relationship can blossom.

Built in Best Friend

You’ll learn a lot about yourself when you take moments of the day and do what you love. Treat yourself well as you would a great friend. Doing this will make you feel more confident and self-assured, you may even find a new hobby or skill and occupy your mind with positive thoughts.