subject: Facing Loneliness [print this page] Almost by definition, loneliness is something one must often face alone. But like many obstacles one must conquer alone, one can successfully face the challenge of loneliness and come through triumphant. It is important to understand that being alone doesn't have to lead to loneliness. Many people can experience a feeling of loneliness when surrounded by a crowd. The feeling of loneliness can come about at any time and is by far more of a mental state than a physical state. This feeling comes about when one feels a lack of companionship or connection with other people.
Types of Loneliness
The Professor of Sociology and well-known loneliness expert, Dr. William Sadler described in the July 1975 issue of Science Digest five types of loneliness.
1. Interpersonal Loneliness: This is the feeling you get when you miss someone close. This can be for a far-off relative or friend, or a byproduct of grief felt by the death of a loved one. It feels as if no one could possibly take the place of this missed person, so a feeling of desperation and despair can ascend.
2. Social Loneliness: When one does not feel any identification with any group or cause, anxiety over not belonging can bring on the sadness of loneliness. This can become even more difficult if one feels ostracized or rejected by a group (either real or perceived) that is important in one's life. One may feel that the group essentially defines one's being and therefore the pain can be acute.
3. Culture Shock: This can happen when faced with dealing with or living in a completely new culture or society. This can arise when there is a feeling of rejection by the new culture or the sense that one will never fit in or wants to fit in.
4. Cosmic Loneliness: This is also called existential loneliness. It is the feeling that can overcome us when we ponder, "What does it all mean?" We question our very existence and worth in the universe and often can occur in a time of world or personal crisis.
5. Psychological Loneliness: This is self-generated loneliness, coming from personal feelings about past experiences or even chemical imbalances in the body. One may recall past difficulties and struggles where support from friends or family was lacking. It is often associated with the thinking, "I have no one to turn to..."
Loneliness or Depression?
Many people suffering from loneliness may feel they are in a bout of depression; however they are categorically not the same thing. Lonely people may feel sad about their situation, and potentially fear it will continue, but generally spurs action. Depression is the final depth of despair where someone is numbed and simply do not care enough to take action. Lonely people still function, whereas the depressed have more often just given up.
The showdown with loneliness
Facing loneliness is difficult no doubt, but it can be overcome. Most important to keep in mind is that one must take action to combat loneliness and have the mindset that by action, one can overcome this feeling. There is ample support available for either professional help or self-help. Information is the ally for combating loneliness.
