12 Nov Feel alone? Don’t suffer in silence, reach out

Many people think they know what it is like to be lonely. Thankfully, few understand what it is like to be lonely and isolated.

Those who have had the misfortune to be lonely and isolated know only too well how debilitating it can be, triggering depression, illness and even suicidal thoughts, and it can affect people of any age.

Loneliness can come in many forms, and for most people, it is a transient emotion. It is often confused with solitude, but one can still feel lonely in a room full of people. Its causes are complex and potentially very damaging.

Our Community Builders work with lonely and isolated people of all ages, helping to ease them gently back into their communities, often changing their lives beyond all recognition.

Christmas and the festive season shine a spotlight on loneliness and isolation, but it is present at any time of year and comes in many forms with many causes ranging from mild to severe, with some common triggers.

Life transitions are often at the root, including retirement, divorce, the loss of loved ones, or moving to a new environment. For children and teenagers, issues like bullying or social exclusion can foster loneliness. In older adults, health problems, mobility issues, or the death of partners and peers often result in social withdrawal. Economic hardship and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety further increase vulnerability to loneliness and isolation.

Time and again, we found during the seven-year-long lottery-funded Ageing Well project a common scenario that involved a combination of moving to the Bay from another part of the country, thereby leaving behind an established support network of friends and family, followed by the death of one partner.

The lack of public transport up and down the hills of the Bay was another key factor, particularly after surrendering a driving licence because of age or disability. For many, taxis were not affordable on a regular basis.

The effects of loneliness and isolation are far-reaching. Psychologically, prolonged loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, and a decline in self-esteem. It can diminish a person’s sense of purpose and hope, sometimes resulting in feelings of worthlessness or despair. Mentally, loneliness has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of conditions like dementia.

Physically, chronic loneliness and social isolation are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and weakened immune functioning. Studies indicate that the health consequences of loneliness can be comparable to smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity. The stress associated with social disconnection elevates cortisol levels, which can harm various bodily systems.

Through Ageing Well, we also discovered that tackling loneliness and isolation could significantly reduce the number of doctor and hospital visits, with the added bonus of saving a substantial amount of money.

We all have a role to play. Addressing loneliness requires a multifaceted approach that involves individuals, communities, and policies. At the personal level, fostering meaningful relationships through active engagement, shared hobbies, and volunteer work can provide emotional fulfilment. Developing social skills and seeking support when feeling lonely are also vital.

Communities can promote inclusion by creating accessible social spaces, organising group activities, and supporting vulnerable people. Schools and workplaces can also incorporate programs that promote social interaction and emotional well-being, particularly as more people work from home.

Communities are stronger together, and the more that is going on on our doorsteps, the more we can help each other remain active and socially included. Coffee mornings are about much more than a hot drink and a biscuit.

Volunteering is as much about the volunteer as it is about the person or organisation being helped. It is an excellent way to get to know others in a low-pressure, informal environment. There are numerous opportunities available by searching for ‘Torbay Together’ on your favourite search engine, visiting Devon Connect, and clicking on the Volunteering button. Alternatively, you can drop us a message via VolunteerTorbay.com

If you’re experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation, please remember that you do not have to suffer in silence. Our Community Builders cover the whole of the Bay and are just a phone call or an email away. A full list can be found on the Torbay Communities website. Or contact the Torbay Community Helpline by calling 01803 446022 or using the online form.