ONLY THE LONELY

Wordsworth may have wandered lonely as a cloud but according to research millions of us have joined him this year. More than seven million people told a survey that their wellbeing was affected through feeling lonely during lockdown.

While being alone and being lonely are very different, adults living on their own, especially in rented accommodation, fared worse than those living in a two adult household.

YOUNG PEOPLE CAN BE LONELY TOO

The impact of lockdown on schools, colleges, university and the job market have taken their toll on young people. Almost half of 18 to 24 year olds interviewed in a university linked study said they were lonely during lockdown.

Illustration by Ella Byworth

Its health impact shouldn’t be underestimated. Loneliness is as bad for you as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to Cambridge University researcher Dr Tine Van Bortel.

Age UK say significant life changes can trigger loneliness. Working from home or grief following the loss of a loved one, which

many of us have felt during the pandemic, can heighten our sense of loneliness.

If lockdown and local restrictions have left you feeling lonely, be kind to yourself:

• Go for a walk where there are people but where you are still able to social distance. A walk during daylight hours will help top up Vitamin D to keep you healthy

• Join an online group or class. It can be easier to make the first move virtually rather than in person. Check your local library or online guides

• Consider peer support, where people use their experiences to help each other. Mersey Care’s Life Rooms can help. Liferooms.org

• Share your knowledge and skills with others. If you are good at baking, DIY or playing chess, invite people to join a group or session.

NEED TO TALK?

MIND Infoline 0300 123 3393 (open from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday)

Age UK advice line 0800 678 1602 (Lines open 8am to 7pm, 365 days a year)

British Red Cross Coronavirus Support Line 0808 196 3651 (10am to 6pm)

Samaritans 116 123 samaritans.org

Sources quoted: Mental Health Foundation in partnership with the University of Cambridge, Swansea University, University of Strathclyde and Queen’s University Belfast. cam.ac.uk/research/news/almost-a-quarter-of-adults-living-under-lockdown-in-the-uk-have-experienced-loneliness

Surveys quoted: * Coronavirus and loneliness, Great Britain: 3 April to 3 May 2020, ONS

www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/ bulletins/coronavirusandlonelinessgreatbritain/3aprilto3may2020