subject: Definition- Loneliness [print this page] Of all the many different emotions that people feel, loneliness is quite possibly one of the hardest to explain. It is easy enough to give loneliness meaning of course, and lines and lines of text have been written on the definition of loneliness, to varying degrees of accuracy.
The problem isn't so much in the inaccuracy of the definition of loneliness, but rather its limited nature. By way of a definition, loneliness is often described as a negative emotional condition resulting from abandonment or isolation. This definition of loneliness is accurate to some degree, but it doesn't consider the loneliness that can arise from situations wherein such an emotional reaction would not normally be expected.
Most people have only a superficial knowledge of loneliness, meaning that these emotions are often the result of a temporary or passing state. It is entirely possible to feel lonely while on a business trip or if you had to stay home alone for an entire weekend. However, these situations are generally temporary, and the loneliness can quickly be dispelled when the person is reunited with his or her family members. Although fitting in with the common loneliness definition, such cases are far removed from the deeper and more ingrained feelings of loneliness that some people feel when depressed or in an emotionally troubled state.
Most cases of loneliness can be rectified simply by engaging in a favorite activity or meeting up with people whose company you enjoy. However, there are instances when seemingly nothing can lift a person up from the morass of loneliness, even without any apparent cause. Some people live constantly with an unbearable sense of detachment with their surroundings or the people around them. It may be due to the lack of like minded people around him, a deep resentment for the environment and its people, or simply boredom. Regardless of the definition, loneliness often plagues such people even when they are constantly in the presence of friends and family.
Although people who are lonely often feel as if the solution lies in other people, it may actually be beneficial to seek the answers in one's self. Rather than seeking out the company of other people, it may be beneficial to invest more time in one's self. Just as you shouldn't use a relationship as a way to offset any perceived lack or flaw on your part, so too shouldn't you use loneliness as an excuse to get other people to solve your problems for you.
All this doesn't mean to imply that loneliness should be treated as insignificant, as there are instances wherein such emotions may be a sign of a deeper emotional or mental issue. This is particularly true of people who feel lonely for no apparent reason, or suffer from loneliness to such a considerable degree that day-to-day activities are impaired, and many aspects of life are affected negatively. While loneliness is normal to some degree, an individual who suffers from it excessively or for too long should seek the assistance of a professional therapist.
