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How to Cope With and Overcome Loneliness Ascertain whether you are hankering for company and address the problem MELANIE FOURIE
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ebruary heralds the month of love for those who are dating or committed. For many, this spells sweet Valentine’s Day surprises, heart-shaped candies, oodles of affection, and togetherness. However, the deluge of ecstatic couples is also a painful reminder of an unfulfilled love life for singles. A recent study revealed that 82% of Americans preferred to spend Valentine’s Day with someone. It is therefore no surprise that many singles feel a heightened sense of loneliness on that day. If this is you, it is best to ascertain whether you are indeed lonely, or just succumbing to
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the hype surrounding Valentine’s. If it turns out you feel unloved and isolated, don’t fret, as there are steps you can take to fill the void. Here’s how to do this.
SIGNS THAT YOU ARE CHRONICALLY LONELY
You may not always be aware that you’re lonely, as the signs may be subtle. However, according to Healthline, these are some of the symptoms of loneliness: • Listlessness or decreased energy levels • A lack of appetite • A compromised immune system, resulting in consistent illnesses
• Insomnia and sleeping disorders • A need to binge-watch movies • Substance abuse • An overwhelming need for ‘retail therapy.’ • An increased need for all things cozy, like warm beverages or blankets
THE DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS OF LONELINESS
According to The Hindu, Dr. Venkatesh Babu, a psychiatrist at Fortis Hospital in Bengaluru says loneliness can be a cause and consequence of mental health issues. He said that people “tend to engage in different kinds of behavior, due to
