subject: The Key Characteristics Of Solitude And Loneliness [print this page] When the subject of loneliness comes up, solitude is often associated with it. After all, people are often loneliest when they are by themselves, which makes it seem almost as if solitude and loneliness refer to the exact same things. Although it is true that being alone is often the trigger-or at least a common cause-of loneliness, there are actually a number of significant differences between the two emotional states. Solitude and loneliness can also be mutually exclusive, and in fact, are often totally unrelated emotional states.
Loneliness is something that many people feel at one time or another. Loneliness often brings with it a feeling of isolation and even abandonment, and the person suffering from it tends to feel all alone in the vast, uncaring world. The condition can range from a slight, temporary state to a chronic condition from which there appears to be no end in sight.
For a temporary state of loneliness, the solution could be as simple as going out to meet with friends or chatting on the telephone or over the Internet. In such situations, loneliness can be easily dispelled by seeking out the company of others. However, there are deeper seated and longer lasting cases of loneliness, and these can either be symptoms of or lead to depression. Constant feelings of loneliness that don't go away even if you are surrounded by friends and family may indicate a more serious emotional issue that will need to be addressed.
Solitude is something else entirely, and refers more to a self initiated state of being alone. When discussing solitude vs loneliness, it would be helpful to think of it this way: we can choose solitude, but we often have no choice in the matter when we are feeling lonely. Solitude can usually end any time we want, but this is hardly ever the case with loneliness.
Solitude vs loneliness could also be described as a conscious choice and an uncontrollable emotion. You can't simply will yourself to be lonely-although you might be able to come close!-just as you can't simply lift yourself out of it by a conscious decision (although again you may be able to come close). As for solitude, you can choose when to go into solitude and when to come out of it.
Another key difference between the two is that there aren't many positive things one could say about loneliness. Even the most optimistic quotes on loneliness tend to help you view your current state in a more positive light rather than help you find a way out of it. Solitude on the other hand can actually be a good thing...and often is. When faced with all the challenges and obstacles that come your way day after day, solitude may be just what you need to clear your mind. While loneliness is often seen as a state or emotional condition that needs "resolving", solitude could actually be an essential aid in mental, spiritual, and even physical well being.
