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It’s likely that everyone will experience loneliness at some point in their lives, although not everyone’s experiences will be the same.  Loneliness is not always the same as being alone. Some people may choose to spend time on their own with little contact with others and not feel lonely, whereas others may have a big network of people around them and still feel alone. This can be especially true if you do not feel cared for or understood by those around you.

There are many different things that may cause you to feel lonely, such as:

  • The loss of a loved one – please click here to see our bereavement page.
  • A relationship break down
  • Moving to a new place where you do not know anyone
  • A change in your circumstances which means you’re more isolated from others
  • Starting university and moving away from home
  • Experiencing physical or mental illness

Each person’s experiences will differ and for some people there may not be an obvious cause of their feelings of loneliness.

Loneliness itself is not a mental health problem but having mental health difficulties can make you more likely to feel lonely. Research also suggests that experiencing loneliness can be associated with an increased risk of experiencing some mental health problems, such as, depression, anxiety, increased stress, difficulties with sleep and low self-esteem. Please click here to visit our Common Issues page for help with these areas

Ways to help overcome loneliness

Find some helpful advice on dealing with loneliness as well as some helpful contacts if you feel you need some extra support below.

NHS Every Mind Matters

Loneliness is an issue that can affect us all, young or old, at any point in our lives. We might live in a busy city or a rural location, on our own or with others and still feel isolated. If you cannot reach out to friends or family, if you want to talk to someone in confidence, or if you know someone who may need some support, these organisations are here to help.

Mind

Explains loneliness, including the causes of loneliness and how it relates to mental health problems. Gives practical tips to help manage feelings of loneliness, and other places you can go for support.

Action for Elders

Balanced Lives Programme deals with physical, mental and social well-being, giving people the tools to take control of their health during later years. Runs in few location across Swansea. Call 0303 303 01 32

SmallWoods

One important purpose of a woodland can be the health and wellbeing benefit it gives to the local community. Firstly, an improvement in positive relationships via social contact, thus decreasing isolation. Secondly, an improvement in perceived physical and mental wellbeing from time spent in nature doing physical activities

SilverLine

 The Silver Line Helpline run by Age UK is a free, confidential telephone service for older people. We provide friendship, conversation and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call free on 0800 4 70 80 90.

Men's Sheds Cymru

Men’s Sheds Cymru introduced and now drives forward the Men’s Sheds movement in Wales. Men’s Sheds is an internationally recognised and successful concept for establishing community groups specifically around the needs of men.

Women's Institute

The WI is a unique organisation shaped by its members. In 1915, we set out to give women a voice and to be a force for good in the community.  Since then, our members and our ambitions alike have grown tremendously

u3a - learn, laugh, live

u3a is a UK-wide collection of 1000+ charities that provide the opportunity for those no longer in work to come together and learn for fun.  There are lots of opportunities to get involved with learning remotely or in your area.

YoungMinds

All of us will feel lonely at some point in our lives, and it can be difficult to cope with. But there are things you can do to feel better and people who can help. Information about coping with loneliness.

Do Summit Good

The Men’s Shed opens up their space every Thursday from 10am-12pm for local guys to come hang out and help us with some of the tasks on the farm. This is about creating more positive and community driven spaces for local men to connect. Call on 075 479 97 111 or email hello@gosummitgood.co.uk for more information.