Lift someone out of loneliness

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Feeling lonely is something that all of us can experience at any point in our lives, it can make us feel isolated and have a negative impact on our wellbeing.

The pandemic has been an unsettling time for everyone, and it’s important to remember that many people may still feel disconnected, and will feel comfortable with different things, even when out of restrictions.

Loneliness – the need for change

We need to change the idea that there is a stigma associated with loneliness, and encourage people to talk more openly with each other about feeling lonely and realise that there are easy steps we can all take to help each other during times of loneliness.

We can’t compare ourselves to how others may be feeling or acting, and we should all take time to go at our own pace.  Sometimes it can feel easier to help someone else who may be feeling lonely. There are lots of simple actions that you can do to help, including:

• Checking in with a family member, friend or neighbour by sending a text or giving them a call to see how they are doing.
• Reaching out to someone to suggest catching up over a tea or coffee
• Inviting someone to join you in getting some fresh air and going for a walk.

In taking one of these actions, you could lift someone out of loneliness, and it might help you feel less lonely too.

You can find more advice and support about loneliness by visiting the Every Mind Matters Loneliness page

Local organisations and activities

There are a number of local activities you can get involved in if you are feeling lonely yourself.

If you enjoy walking and would like to meet some new people you can try attending our community health walks.  The walks run at the same time every week and everyone is welcome.  You can find out more and register to attend one of our walks by visiting our Community Health Walks page

Local organisation Let’s Go Outside and Learn have a programme of upcoming activities to help people get out and about so they can explore local parks and meet new people in the boroughs of Hounslow & Richmond.

The Hounslow Wellbeing Network is a social network that has a programme of events across Hounslow that is updated from month to month throughout the year.  If you visit their website you will see that they have a wealth of different activities available from coffee and chat sessions and curry lunches to park walks.

For more information about ways to connect with others and information about more local organisations that can help visit our Connect More page.

Alternatively, if you would like to talk to one of our health advisors about connecting more with others call us on 020 8973 3530, e-mail us at oneyou.hounslow@nhs.net or register your interest to ‘Connect More’ on our Register Now page.