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Overcoming loneliness at Christmas
The festive season, often viewed as a joyous time of celebration with family and friends, can be a significant reminder of loneliness for many regional Queenslanders.
Recent reports show around one in three people, totalling six million Australians, currently deal with feelings of isolation. Loneliness is more than a fleeting emotional state; it can have profound implications for both mental and physical health.
selectability’s Chief Operating Officer, Aaron Farrell said loneliness extended beyond mental health concerns and impacted various aspects of a person’s life.
“An inquiry into social isolation and loneliness in Queensland has likened loneliness to the health risks associated with smoking 15 cigarettes a day or being obese,” said Aaron.
“Research indicates that lonely Australians are less engaged in physical activity, more prone to social media addiction, and may experience reduced productivity at work.
“In addition, loneliness has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, anxiety, dementia, addiction, suicidality, and self-harm.
“Recognising and addressing loneliness is a crucial step toward improving mental wellbeing.
“At selectability our programs and services support regional Queenslanders to make meaningful connections to help them overcome loneliness and social isolation.”
If you find yourself experiencing feelings of loneliness, there are steps you can take to improve your emotional wellbeing:
- Be kind to yourself: acknowledge and challenge negative thoughts that contribute to feelings of loneliness
- Be kind to others: making a positive impact on others can enhance your mood and foster a sense of connection
- Limit social media time: quality, not quantity, defines meaningful connections. Be mindful of the impact of social media on your perceptions of connection, as it can often present an idealised version of reality
- Reconnect with others: create a small circle of positive friends, as these connections can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness
- Connect with your community: seek out like-minded people with shared interests to build positive connections within your community
“By nurturing positive connections with others and actively engaging with your community, you can create a foundation for a happier and healthier life,” said Aaron.
Developing and maintaining strong social connections can have a transformative impact on mental health, offering benefits such as:
- reducing stress and anxiety
- enhancing self-esteem and confidence
- promoting a sense of belonging
- encouraging positive behaviors
- improving coping skills.
Learn more about selectability’s services HERE
Remember, help is available. If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please reach out to the following services:
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
- Standby - Support After Suicide 0438 648
USEFUL LINKS
selectability acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we provide services and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge those with lived experience and those who support and partner with us to improve mental wellbeing and prevent suicide across regional Queensland.
