Coping with Loneliness
Get Supportcoping with LONELINESS
Get SupportLoneliness is a common, if isolating experience.
Loneliness is a unique experience for everyone. It can stem from various circumstances such as the loss of a loved one, a difficult breakup, moving to a new city, or personal insecurities that leave you feeling isolated. During a time when we’re technologically more connected than ever, loneliness seems to be increasing. It’s important to recognize that there isn’t a “one size fits all” solution for overcoming loneliness.
At Good Samaritan, we strive to create a safe and supportive community, where we pledge our love to all people, especially those who have felt hurt or abandoned by the institutional church. As our name suggests, we seek to be good neighbors, which includes making space where everyone can grow to feel the love of God in fellowship with each other.
If you find yourself unsure of how to find support during this season, our Good Samaritan UMC team has outlined a few simple ways to reduce feelings of loneliness. Feel free to give them a try and see which tips resonate with you.
Spend Time Alone With God
You may find it encouraging to consider the ways that Jesus encountered loneliness in His earthly journey, and that He knows what it feels like to be lonely (John 16:32). He was betrayed by his closest friends (Matthew 26:21, John 18:27) and even felt forsaken by His own Parent as his life on earth was coming to a painful end (Matthew 27:46).
Because Jesus is the most familiar with our emotional suffering, He is the ultimate source of comfort. Before turning to anyone or anything to ease the pain of loneliness, it’s important to spend time with our Comforter and Friend. (John 15:15). He will never leave you or forsake you, so you are truly never alone.
Jesus not only sympathizes with our loneliness, but He promises to transform our lives into something new (Revelation 21:4). When we put our faith in Jesus, we become part of His family and can look forward to an eternity with our Him, free from pain and suffering.
Although it may seem counterintuitive to spend time alone with God when battling loneliness, time with our Creator is far from alone. Psalm 121 says:
I raise my eyes toward the mountains.
Where will my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the maker of heaven and earth.
God won’t let your foot slip.
Your protector won’t fall asleep on the job.
No! Israel’s protector
never sleeps or rests!
The Lord is your protector;
the Lord is your shade right beside you.
The sun won’t strike you during the day;
neither will the moon at night.
The Lord will protect you from all evil;
God will protect your very life.
The Lord will protect you on your journeys—
whether going or coming—
from now until forever from now (CEB).
By praying, journaling, and reminding your heart of God’s Promises, you can strengthen your connection with God, enabling you to better cope with loneliness. Your relationship with the Creator of all things can be a wellspring of hope and comfort.
Watch Encouraging Messages Online
At Good Samaritan UMC, we have encouraging sermons on all kinds of topics. Watch a message online at any time or join us this weekend in Edina.
Reach Out to Someone About Your Struggle
In addition to God’s presence, we are gifted with other people to help bear our burdens. Sharing your struggle with a trusted friend, family member, or pastor can alleviate some of the weight you’re carrying. If you’re unsure how to initiate the conversation, try sending a simple text such as “I’m going through a tough time and was hoping to talk about it.” Speaking about your challenges aloud to a supportive listener can bring a sense of relief and comfort. You might be surprised to learn how many others have also experienced loneliness.
If you’re feeling up to it, joining a local group or community that engages in activities you enjoy can be a wonderful way to combat loneliness. This could look like conducting a quick Google search to find a local book club, Bible Study, or even an online support group that catches your eye.
The local church itself is designed to provide support and friendship for people during hard times. Remember, all it takes is a simple visit; no commitment is necessary. Who knows, you might find some new social connections.
If there’s room in your budget, we also recommend seeking professional counselors who align with your faith and values. They can be an amazing resource for discussing and working through your feelings of loneliness. Counselors and therapists have the expertise to help uncover the underlying causes of your loneliness and provide guidance along the way. Remember, you don’t have to deal with loneliness alone.
Need Help? Know Someone Who Does?
Contact one of the following if you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support:
- Call or text 988
- Chat at 988lifeline.org
- Text the Minnesota Crisis Text line (Text MN to 741741)
- Call or Chat with The Trevor Project Suicide Prevention line for LGBQ Youth (24 hour, toll free hotline: 1-866-488-7386)
Connect with a trained crisis counselor. These resources are confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.
Find New Pathways to Support
In the process of overcoming loneliness, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Research shows that physical health, such as exercise, diet, and sleep, is closely linked to mental health. By supporting your body and mind, you can reduce feelings of loneliness and increase your ability to engage with others.
Consider introducing new and simple habits into your routine, like taking a walk outside or opening a window to let in some fresh air. Trying out a new form of movement or even a new exercise class can also be a great way to rejuvenate both your body and mind. Fuel your body with a nutritious meal or treat yourself to a well-deserved nap. And if you find that social media adds to your stress, taking an extended break from your phone can provide some much-needed relief. By incorporating these small yet meaningful habits, you’ll pave the way for overcoming loneliness.
Take One Small Step
These practices may feel overwhelming at first. Fortunately, there’s no need to take any drastic measures to start feeling yourself again. Start with small social interactions like saying hello to the cashier, reading a book in a coffee shop, waving to your neighbor, visiting your local library, or chatting with someone online. These small daily wins will gradually nudge you toward connectedness.
We hope you resonate with at least one of these strategies to overcoming loneliness. Whether you reach out to a trusted friend, join a local group, consider professional counseling, or visit a local church for support, remember you are not alone. God is faithful and wants to walk with you through your loneliness. Our Good Samaritan UMC community is also here to support you along the way.