The Differences Between Loneliness And Solitude

Loneliness is a condition that affects millions of people all over the world

. It doesn't seem to matter what they do, where they go, or who they talk to, they just can't shake that unmistakable feeling that no one understands the things they experience or go through. Loneliness is an emotional state that can create turmoil in the life of an otherwise healthy person. It can even destroy relationships because the victim of loneliness does not have to actually be alone to experience it. One can feel just as lonely in a crowded room as they do on a secluded beach by himself. Often times, loneliness gets mixed up with another condition called solitude, but there are actually some distinct differences, such as the following:

1. Solitude is a choice.

Solitude is when one desires and creates alone time for themselves. It has often been misappropriated as a negative thing with statements such as "solitary confinement," but if you break down even that concept, the meaning is not altogether negative. In the prison system, solitary confinement is, in theory, done for the good of the inmate. It separates them from the general population to bring about a better understanding of unacceptable behaviors. Carry that over to ordinary life and when one goes into solitude, he is doing so more as an examination of self to achieve a better understanding of the world around him.

2. Loneliness is unavoidable.

While solitude is a choice that people make, it can be avoided. Should one not want to be physically alone, and there is no one to be around to stave off this desire, he can simply go to a crowded restaurant and be close to the presence of people. With loneliness, it is not so easy to get away from. In fact, many would call it unavoidable. There are some things you may be able to do to fight it once it arrives, but when that feeling creeps upon you, it's there, and you can't pretend that it's not. It doesn't matter where you go or what you do or how many people are around, it follows you.

3. Loneliness and depression are linked.

You generally cannot find a lonely person, who is not also a depressed person. While many people enjoy spending time in solitude, that doesn't necessarily mean they will end up depressed. After all, as aforementioned, solitude is a choice, and loneliness is not.

When a person can control the human experience, they are able to engage in solitude for personal growth. It's when a person feels out of control and helpless to avoid their feelings of being alone that loneliness sets in. If you feel it's happening to you, see a doctor today.

by: Gen Wright

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