If you’ve ever suffered from loneliness, well … you’re not alone! Loneliness can happen to anyone at anytime. Sometimes it feels the worst when it occurs while around lots of other people. It can be a symptom of depression but not always. It’s not a given that loneliness occurs when you’re alone. Consider solitude; this is a relished time of being alone to have ‘down time,’ to relax, to reflect, listen to music or read.

Loneliness usually occurs due to actual life circumstances, such as moving away from friends, loss of a partner, a prolonged illness, or any other factor which causes a separation from others. But, it can also happen when irrational beliefs build up. This can happen on a conscious level; sometimes, however, it happens without our awareness. We start telling ourselves things such as “you don’t deserve to have friends;” “who would want you?” “they would rather get together without you.” “You’re no fun to be around.” Left unchecked, such beliefs can trigger a depression.

Everyone experiences loneliness now and again. For most people, it either passes on its own, or they take steps to stop it such as call a friend or do something else with others. If you’re having a hard time getting a handle on your loneliness and it’s happening too much, see a qualified mental health professional. In the Chicago area, see one of the dedicated and talented professional staff of Heritage Professional Associates.