Many of us experience loneliness at some point in our lives, making it quite a common feeling, but what happens when loneliness becomes a constant state of being? Can it be classified as a mental illness? Well, the answer to that question is quite complex. While chronic loneliness isn’t a diagnosis or a mental illness in itself, it can be a symptom of an underlying mental health issue. Let’s explore this topic in depth further in the article.
Understanding Chronic Loneliness
The desire to belong to a group and connect with others is one of the core human needs, When this need is not met, we tend to experience loneliness. Chronic loneliness is when one experiences persistent feelings of isolation even when they are in the company of others.
While anyone can experience short periods of loneliness, especially if they are staying away from home, chronic loneliness lasts for an extended period. Some common signs of chronic loneliness are
- Lack of affection or warmth
- Low mood or energy
- Unable to feel connected with others around
- Spending excessive time on TV or social media
- Excessive use of substances such as alcohol and nicotine
Prolonged loneliness can affect both mind and body, leading to various physical and mental health issues that can worsen over time, creating a vicious cycle where one feels increasingly lonely as their physical and mental well-being worsens.
Chronic Loneliness And Mental Health
Loneliness, especially when it becomes chronic, can lead to a range of mental health issues, impacting the person’s overall well-being. Research suggests that chronic loneliness is associated with mental health issues such as:
-
Depression and Anxiety
Chronic loneliness is closely linked to depression. The feelings of isolation, coupled with a lack of social support, can lead to a sense of hopelessness. Over time, the isolation from loneliness can worsen symptoms of depression, making it even more difficult for the person to socialize.
Social anxiety often goes hand-in-hand with chronic loneliness. Those who feel consistently lonely may become anxious about social interactions, fearing rejection or judgment. This anxiety can make it even more difficult for them to form meaningful connections with others.
-
Substance Abuse
People who suffer from extended periods of loneliness are at risk of developing an addiction to substances such as nicotine or alcohol. A meta-analysis that consisted of 41 studies found that chronic loneliness is associated with poor physical and mental health along with substance use problems and poor relationships.
-
Self-Harm
In extreme cases, people with chronic loneliness may resort to self-harm. A study published in 2021 found that social isolation, lack of face-to-face interactions and loneliness due to COVID-19 restrictions were a few of the significant factors influencing self-harm in young adults.
-
Cognitive Decline
Multiple research studies suggest that loneliness and social isolation can lead to cognitive decline, especially in older adults.
Thus, there is enough evidence to suggest that chronic loneliness is associated with various mental health issues.
Overcoming Chronic Loneliness
While loneliness is a serious issue, there are various ways to overcome such as:
- Take time to mindfully connect with your loved ones, even if it feels difficult at the start. Reaching out to loved ones regularly will reduce loneliness over time
- Developing hobbies that bring joy and fulfilment can provide a sense of purpose and opportunities to socialize with like-minded people
- Adopting a pet can bring a sense of belongingness and companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness.
- Engaging in volunteer work can bring a sense of purpose and opportunities to connect with others, creating a sense of community and belonging, reducing loneliness
- If loneliness feels overwhelming, it can be crucial to seek professional help. A therapist can provide people with tools and support to overcome feelings of loneliness.
Conclusion:
Loneliness is a common feeling experienced by all at some point or another; however, chronic loneliness can be harmful. While chronic loneliness isn’t a mental condition or diagnosis by itself, it can be a crucial indicator of symptoms of or lead to various mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, substance use, etc. Chronic loneliness can be managed by seeking timely support from loved ones or mental health professionals.
If you are someone experiencing chronic loneliness, click here to book a session with our trained therapists right away.
References:
- Chronic Loneliness: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and More. (2019, June 25). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/chronic-loneliness
- Ingram, I., Kelly, P. J., Deane, F. P., Baker, A. L., Goh, M. C. W., Raftery, D. K., & Dingle, G. A. (2020). Loneliness among people with substance use problems: A narrative systematic review. Drug and Alcohol Review, 39(5), 447–483. https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13064
- John, A., Lee, S. C., Solomon, S., Crepaz-Keay, D., McDaid, S., Morton, A., Davidson, G., Bortel, T. V., & Kousoulis, A. A. (2021). Loneliness, coping, suicidal thoughts and self-harm during the COVID-19 pandemic: A repeat cross-sectional UK population survey. BMJ Open, 11(12), e048123. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-048123
- Owczarek, M., Nolan, E., Shevlin, M., Butter, S., Karatzias, T., McBride, O., Murphy, J., Vallieres, F., Bentall, R., Martinez, A., & Hyland, P. (2022). How is loneliness related to anxiety and depression: A population-based network analysis in the early lockdown period. International Journal of Psychology, 57(5), 585–596. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijop.12851
- Richardson, T., Elliott, P., & Roberts, R. (2017). Relationship between loneliness and mental health in students. Journal of Public Mental Health, 16(2), 48–54. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPMH-03-2016-0013
- Why Am I So Lonely All The Time? What You Don’t Know About Chronic Loneliness. (n.d.). Verywell Mind. Retrieved October 21, 2024, from https://www.verywellmind.com/understanding-chronic-loneliness-8705582
