Breaking the Loneliness & Depression Cycle

Maslov’s hierarchy of needs proposes that our greatest needs are food, water, and shelter. However, beyond our physiological needs, human connection is essential to our well-being. Loneliness and isolation can be detrimental to our mental health.

Loneliness and depression often go hand in hand. Loneliness, withdrawal, and isolation can significantly impact your mental health and even put you at a greater risk of developing depression. Depression can also cause someone to withdraw, isolate, or keep to themselves.

The bidirectional flow of loneliness and depression can feel like an unending loop, making it difficult to break the cycle. However, it is not impossible. With the right tools and support, you can break free.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

One of the first steps to break the isolation cycle is acknowledging and accepting the emotions you’re experiencing. You have to recognize the problem before you’re able to address it. Accepting that you’re feeling lonely or depressed can be difficult to come to terms with. These feelings can cause you to experience shame and guilt for feeling this way in the first place, which can lead you to hide or dismiss these thoughts and emotions. This acknowledgment and awareness can help you work to seek help and make the necessary changes.

Get Social

When you’re feeling lonely or experiencing symptoms of depression, you may find it easier to keep to yourself instead of feeling like you’re a burden to others. Remember that the only person who thinks you’re a burden to others is yourself. You can be your own worst critic. Instead of listening to your negative and intrusive thoughts, seek human connection, even on a small scale.

If you keep to yourself, it can lead to worsening symptoms and other mental health challenges. Make sure you’re finding ways to connect with others face-to-face or virtually. This could include hanging out with loved ones, joining a club or organization of one of your interests, volunteering, taking a new class, chatting on the phone, or engaging on social media.

If this feels overwhelming, start with a trusted friend or family member. Be vocal with your feelings and the support you need. It can be something as small as sending texts of your favorite songs from the week. Feeling seen and known can slowly help you open yourself up to other social activities.

Take Care of Yourself

Depression and loneliness can prevent a person from taking care of themselves. Taking care of yourself is always important, especially in times of high stress. This could include eating a healthy and well-balanced diet, aiming for at least eight hours of sleep each night, and finding ways to move your body each day. These activities can help boost your overall mood and increase your energy levels. This shift can help you feel better from the inside out so you can start putting yourself out there again.

Do The Things You Love

Depression can feel like a black hole, consuming all the things you once loved and enjoyed. You can step out of the loneliness cycle by re-engaging yourself in activities, hobbies, or interests you once had. Don’t seek perfection; seek connection. Let those activities reconnect you to yourself. It’s even better if you can share them with friends or family. Each minute you spend caring for yourself and enjoying the things that once brought you joy is a tiny rebellion against depression’s grip.

Seek Additional Support

Therapy can be extremely beneficial to help break the cycle of isolation and depression. With the right support and effort, you can work to find that joy in your life again. Even though it feels hard right now, you are stronger than you may think. Reach out today to get started with an initial consultation.