Humans want to belong. Most people are not loners, unless they have been terribly hurt. Loneliness aches in your chest and may be a symptom of clinical depression with increasing isolation.
Perhaps you have separated from your partner, maybe someone died, or you had a fight with a best friend. Now everyone else seems to be having a wonderful "beer commercial" kind of life. Not really. Probably everyone feels the pang of loneliness sometimes.
Certain trials of life are really difficult especially when you are young. These times hurt so much that you may wonder how you can go on. However, if you have just once survived a broken heart, a death of a loved one or found a new best friend, then somewhere deep inside, you know you can survive this bad time too. Force yourself to seek out people in a coffee shop, on the basketball court, a book club or wherever. The activity is not important. It is the safety felt in the presence of others that will heal the ache.
DR. MOLLY
Dr. Molly Barrow earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is a licensed mental health counselor and educator in private practice. She is the author of the Malia & Teacup children's books, Matchlines for Singles; and Step Parenting Essentials. Dr. Barrow is a relationship expert helping individuals, couples, families, and co-workers improve their relationships and communication skills. Her commentary and advice column, quotes, radio show, interviews, and articles are enjoyed worldwide in O Magazine, Psychology Today, MSM.com, Parenting, Morning Blend, Match.com, Progressive Radio Network and Women’s Health.