Let’s talk about something that affects all of us at some point: feeling lonely.
Whether you’re going through a tough time, adjusting to changes in your life, or just feeling disconnected, know that your feelings are valid and there are ways to help yourself feel better.
Keep reading to learn 7 practical tips to help you cope with loneliness and take care of your mental health.
As of early 2024, approximately 30% of U.S. adults reported feeling lonely at least once a week, with 10% experiencing loneliness daily.
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Loneliness Statistics 2025
What is Loneliness?
Loneliness is that deep sense of emptiness or disconnection we feel when we crave meaningful connection but can’t seem to find it. It’s more than just being alone — it’s the ache that comes when you feel unseen or unheard, even in a crowd. Everyone experiences loneliness at some point, and it’s a reminder of how much we need relationships and belonging in our lives.
Here are 7 tips designed to help you take care of your mental health when loneliness creeps in.
1. Get Real With Your Feelings
It’s okay to acknowledge those feelings of loneliness – really! Trying to push these feelings away often only makes them stronger. Think of it like a wave: instead of trying to squish it down and pack it into an itty-bitty box for another day, try riding it out.
Dump all of those feelings onto the page of your journal, getting them off your chest. This can help you work through and understand what you’re feeling. Sometimes, just putting your emotions into words can mold them into something that feels more manageable.¹
2. Find Your People (Even Online!)
In today’s world, connection doesn’t necessarily mean being face-to-face. Video call your best friend. Join an online group that chats about your go-to hobby. Chat with your family members over the phone.
It doesn’t have to be face-to-face—even these virtual interactions can help shatter those lonely feelings. Remember, a meaningful and genuine conversation can happen anywhere—even through a screen!
3. Create Your Daily Groove
Having a routine might sound downright uninteresting, but it’s actually super helpful when you’re feeling down. Think of it as building your own personal framework for the day.
Start small—maybe begin your morning with a favorite breakfast, take a walk at lunch, or set aside an hour or two for a hobby you enjoy. These little habits can give your days more structure and purpose.²
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4. Get Moving Your Way
Exercise is more than shedding fat and building muscle—it’s a mood booster too! The cool thing is you get to choose what “exercise” means for you. Love dancing? Crank up your favorite music and shimmy and shake around your room.
Prefer quiet activities? Try some simple yoga flows or stretches to start. Even a brief walk around your neighborhood can help boost your spirits and clear your mind.³
5. Practice Being Present and Grateful
This one might sound a bit fancy, but it’s actually pretty simple.
Being “present” just means paying attention to what’s happening in the here and now rather than stressing about the past or future.
Try this: take a few big, deep breaths and find:
- Five things you can see,
- Four things you can touch,
- Three things you can hear,
- Two things you can smell, and
- One thing you can taste.
While you’re at it, think about the good things in your life (they don’t have to be huge!).
This, combined with your mindfulness measures, can help you refocus on the things you love in your life and away from the not-so-nice loneliness.
6. Ask for Help When You Need It
Sometimes, feelings of loneliness can feel really heavy, and that’s when it’s extra important to take advantage of the professional resources out there.
Chatting with a counselor or therapist isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s actually incredibly brave! These professionals are like personal trainers for your mental health. They can help you find and implement strategies that work specifically for you.
7. Share Your Time and Skills With Others
Helping others can actually help you feel better, too! Whether it’s lending a helping hand to a neighbor who is gardening, volunteering at a local food bank, or just being there for a friend who’s having a rough day, giving your time to others can make you feel more grounded and connected to your community.
Quick Tip: Be Kind to Yourself
When you’re feeling lonely, self-compassion is key. Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d show a friend. Whether it’s taking a break, doing something you enjoy, or simply giving yourself permission to rest, small acts of self-care can make a big difference.
Processing Emotions Is Strength, Not Weakness
Feeling lonely doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you—it means you’re human. Think of these tips as tools in your mental health toolbox. You don’t have to use them all at once, and you might find that some work better for you than others. That’s totally fine!
Through the ups and downs, it’s important to remember to be gentle with yourself. These feelings can be quite overwhelming, especially if you try to tackle them all at once. Just like any other skill, managing loneliness takes practice, and you’re already taking a great first step by learning about ways to help yourself feel better.
Take it one day at a time, celebrate the little wins, and remember that it’s okay to have both good days and tough days. You’ve got this, and there are always people and support available to bolster you on your journey to feeling mentally strong and easing those feelings of loneliness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does loneliness affect mental health?
Loneliness can leave you feeling anxious, sad, or even depressed. Over time, it may make everyday stress harder to manage and impact your overall well-being. The sooner you acknowledge its effects, the sooner you can take steps to feel better.
What’s the best way to start building connections?
Start by reaching out to someone you trust, like a close friend or family member. Even a small conversation can help. You can also join local groups or online communities that share your interests to meet new people.
Can professional help really make a difference?
Absolutely! A therapist or counselor can help you understand your feelings and give you tools to deal with them. Programs like those at Cornerstone Healing Center offer personalized support to help you move forward.
Key Takeaways
- Key Takeaways
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to admit you’re lonely—start there.
- Connect With Others: Reach out to friends or join a group, even online.
- Establish a Routine: Having structure can make your days feel less empty.
- Stay Active: Exercise boosts your mood and energy.
- Practice Mindfulness: Focus on what’s good in your life, even the small stuff.
- Reach Out for Help: Talking to a therapist can make a huge difference.
- Help Others: Doing something kind for someone else can make you feel less alone.
You’re Not Alone, Take the Next Step Today
Loneliness is hard, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. By trying these 7 tips, you can start feeling more connected and improve your mental health little by little. You don’t have to make big changes. Even the itsy-bitsy, tiniest baby steps matter because, ultimately, you’re moving forward.
At Cornerstone Healing Center, we’re here to walk this path with you. Whether you’re ready for the deeper support of our residential treatment program or prefer the flexibility of our online mental health services, we have options to fit your needs.
Don’t wait—reach out today because healing starts with one small step. You’ve got this!
