A lot of people confuse loneliness with being alone. They often use the two terms interchangeably, which is why sometimes people who choose solitude are often viewed in a negative or a 'sorry' light.
But loneliness is much more than just being alone. It's a feeling of disconnection and a lack of meaningful social connections. In fact, those who are lonely need not even be alone, meaning they can be surrounded by several people and still feel abandoned. Does it make sense? Well, if you're still seeking an answer, read on to find out what an expert has to say.
Also Read: Heart Health: Here's How Loneliness Can Affect Your Heart
Loneliness Vs. Being Alone
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Dhanya Chandran, Consultant - Clinical Psychology, Amrita Hospital, Kochi, says, "Loneliness is understood as a painful experience characterised by sadness and a lack of support. One can feel lonely even amidst a large group of friends, and it can be a very draining experience."
This suggests that even people with friends and family can feel lonely if they don't feel understood or supported.
In contrast, being alone, also called solitude, is a pleasant experience associated with peace and a sense of well-being, explains Dr Chandran.
More people are exploiting solitary pursuits and the feeling of solitude by choice these days, she says, adding that solitude leads to a sense of oneness with experiences and does not depend on external factors.
When it comes to loneliness, it can be caused by many things, like life changes, grief, or mental health issues. It's important to recognise the signs of loneliness, such as feeling sad, withdrawn, or lacking energy.
You can also reach out to trusted friends and family for support and seek professional help.
The Long Term Risks Of Loneliness
According to Dr Chandran, a sense of loneliness can increase one's distress.
She says, “In some cases, it can lead to increased negative thoughts, critical judgements about oneself, and a sense of worthlessness. In addition, a lack of support during such phases can make people feel distant from others, and they tend to suffer alone since others may not be aware of their emotional states. Overall, this can increase proneness to other mental illnesses like depression, substance abuse, and more.”
Unfortunately, loneliness and social isolation are also risk factors for many other health conditions in people aged 50 and above, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Social isolation, in particular, is said to not only increase a person’s risk of premature death from all causes but is also associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia. Additionally, the CDC reports that loneliness among heart failure patients was associated with a nearly four-fold increased risk of death, a 68% increased risk of hospitalisation, and a 57% increased risk of emergency department visits.
Also Read: Mental Health Matters: Expert Explains How Loneliness Affects Your Well-Being
Can Being Alone By Choice Be Beneficial?
Solitude by choice is different from being lonely and can be more beneficial for mental health, says Dr Chandran, adding that it encourages more reflective thinking, peace, and time with oneself.
This can include activities such as reading, nature walks, meditation, or creative hobbies.
In a world where people constantly derive joy from being with others, it becomes essential for each person to know themselves in greater depth.
The expert shares that solitude helps people spend time with themselves intentionally and, therefore, know their sense of self better.
She says, “The present generation is in constant communication, with the advent of the internet, social media, and a more outgoing lifestyle. The earliest generations focus on more togetherness, communal activity, and cooperation building.”
“Therefore, both generations may benefit from exploring the value of solitude in their own ways,” she concludes.