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We can all get lonely; it’s important to talk about this. Loneliness has no common cause. Sometimes it can be triggered by a life event or change in situation, or it may not be triggered by anything at all. We all experience feeling lonely in different ways. All of us can experience loneliness at any stage in our lives and it can have a huge impact on our wellbeing.

It’s important to remember that these feelings can pass and that there are lots of simple actions we can take to help lift ourselves or others out of loneliness. Sometimes it can feel easier to reach out to someone else who may be feeling lonely. Everyday moments of connection matter - they allow us to make connections, feel happier and less lonely. Here are some ideas:

  • Keep in touch with those around you.
  • Join a group.
  • Volunteer locally.
  • Do things you enjoy.
  • Share your feelings (– but don’t compare).
  • Help someone else feel connected.
  • Invite someone along to activities near you.

The Marmalade Trust is a charity working to change the way we think about loneliness. They say we should feel able to talk about loneliness, not admit to it - because the more we talk about it, the more can help ourselves and others.

Given this stigma attached to loneliness, in Devon we are moving towards considering the more general concept of ‘social health’. Research suggests that a strong social network is good for wellbeing and health. Our officers work with many third sector groups and other agencies to support such initiatives.

We offer various volunteering opportunities, including volunteering with our parks and gardens, at our gallery, or you could join Wild East Devon’s volunteers at nature reserves across East Devon.

Devon-based Interwoven Productions CIC works towards a world where people are better connected to each other and to their place, helping them to identify their own strength and power.

London-based Neighbourly Lab aims to understand how people and communities can be supported to better connect. Their focus is on modifying environments and providing tools to enable more social connectedness to occur.

Further advice and suggested support routes are available on the NHS Every Mind Matters loneliness webpage.

Disclaimer: If you are worried about specific health issues, please seek professional medical advice.