Many of us may have been dealing with loneliness even before the time of COVID. Most people in the US score high on a scale of loneliness and young adults score highest of all (Cigna, 2018). Put a pandemic and social distancing on top of that, and you have a great recipe for extreme loneliness. So, what can be done?

Below are five ways to beat loneliness.

1) Connect! Schedule a Zoom or Discord gathering with friends. If you’re trying to meet new people, consider reaching out to those in your virtual classes to start up a virtual meet-up.

2) Focus on you! Believe it or not, focusing on your own health and wellness could decrease that sense of loneliness. Research in the field of emotion shows that much of our emotional processes are reciprocal. In other words, I smile when I’m happy and I’m happy when I smile. So, work out, eat well, and maintain positivity and the emotions will follow. Check this blog for more tips on self-care and wellness.

3) Meditate! Loving-kindness meditation could be a great way to mentally and emotionally connect with loved ones from a distance. Positive psychology research has shown that spending time thinking positive and loving thoughts toward others is an effective way to raise overall happiness. Click here for a great Loving-Kindness Meditation led by Tara Brach.

4) Oxytocin! Oxytocin is the hormone released by the brain during loving physical contact. Raise your oxytocin levels by holding hands with someone close to you, sending positive thoughts, petting fur babies, or doing yoga. Call someone you care about and tell them how much they mean to you. More oxytocin means less loneliness!

5) Join one of our online support groups offered by the Peterson Counseling Center. Support groups are a great way to connect with students while learning helpful mental health information. Check out our group offerings on CORQ or click here for some group brochures.

How are you combating loneliness in the time of COVID?

If you have a question about mental health, use PCC's Ask-it Basket here.