Loneliness hurts. One in four people experience it and it’s one of the leading reasons people seek therapy. We come into the world alone, and we leave alone – but we are biologically programmed to seek connection with others during that time in between. Without this human connection we can develop a sense of hopelessness as we start to believe things will never change and there is little point in trying to improve our circumstances.
THINGS DON'T HAVE TO STAY THIS WAY
The absence of connection or kindness from others can affect how we feel about ourselves. Loneliness can be experienced as a deep sense of isolation and separation from the world. It’s hard to accept that you have no one in life to share your joys and hardships. There’s no one to remind you that everything is going to be ok. You can feel imprisoned by this loneliness as it becomes a long-term withdrawal from the world, with no motivation to change your circumstances. Research shows there are both mental and physical consequences associated with this loneliness.
Fortunately, working with a therapist can help you to see new dimensions to your situation. This can involve looking back at your relationships, understanding how you got to where you are, what’s keeping you there, and developing the confidence and determination to build connection in your life.
"I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up all alone. It's not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people that make you feel all alone."
- Robin Williams
Hopelessness is a powerful force that can rob a person of their motivation, their optimism, and their will to live. Many life experiences and situations can produce this despair. Hope is a basic and essential aspect of human life. Without the hope of happiness, fulfilment, love and connection, people have little motivation to deal with all the challenges life brings.
Fortunately, overcoming hopelessness is possible. Looking at the path that brought you to this point can be illuminating. We can then create a workable roadmap to get you back on track. By taking simple steps to modify your thoughts and adjust your behaviours, learning how to respond to triggers and building coping mechanisms, you can successfully build the hope required for a fulfilling life. Together we can rewrite your story.
"A season of loneliness and isolation is when the caterpillar gets its wings. Remember that next time you feel alone."
- Mandy Hale
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Beverley Stewart - Counselling / Psychotherapy / Groups acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.