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Loneliness is a universal emotion that most of us experience at least once during our lifetime, although certain events, such as an illness or a pandemic, can make it feel more pervasive. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines loneliness as the "affective and cognitive discomfort or uneasiness from being or perceiving oneself to be alone or otherwise solitary." In other words, loneliness is the mental or emotional discomfort you may experience from either being alone or feeling as though you are alone. This feeling stems from your social needs not being met and/or an inability to get the social connection you desire. Although loneliness and being alone are confused, being alone doesn't necessarily mean someone is lonely. "Loneliness is a feeling, while being alone is a situation or state of being, which is not inherently negative," says Nina Vasan, a psychiatrist and professor at Stanford University. "You can feel lonely even when you're surrounded by other people such as a partner, family, co-workers or friends," continues Dr. Vasan. There are various demographic factors that may contribute to loneliness. Although Dr, Vasan notes that anyone can feel lonely at any time in their life, a few groups that stand out as having an increased risk of loneliness include “young adults, mothers with young children and the elderly.”

Immigrants are also at higher risk for loneliness, continues Dr. Vasan. The discrepancy between what causes loneliness in older adults versus those who are middle-aged could be due to the fact that older adults have retired and no longer have the community and daily interactions of work life, explains Nikki Press. Older individuals are more likely to have lost friends and family members,' and they are more likely to experience medical or physical limitations that restrict their opportunities for activities and socialising, continues Dr. Press. Other causes of loneliness include: the death of a close friend or family member, physical isolation, like living alone or moving away from family and friends, illness or disability, retirement or working alone, etc. which are common. Just as the cause of loneliness can vary from person to person, coping and prevention strategies can also differ. In general, the goal is to make strong, healthy connections that fulfill your need for social interaction. While there is no substitute for help from a mental health professional, the following tips may help you build emotional connections like finding hobbies you enjoy; volunteering for an organisation you support which will not only give you a sense of accomplishment and pride, but it's an opportunity to meet others who support that same organisation; joining support groups which are an excellent way to connect with others who you have something in common with, such as a mental or physical condition; routinely contacting family and friends for attempting to stay connected; maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise regime. Regardless of your interests, it's important to listen to and fulfill your desire for social connection. It diminishes feelings of loneliness and improves the quality of your life. (Abridged).

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