Supporting Those Affected By Loss and Isolation
As the days get shorter and the nights grow longer, many people feel a change in their mood. For some, the dark months bring cozy feelings, but for others, this time of year can be hard—especially if they’ve lost someone they love or feel alone. If you are coping with feelings of loneliness, remember that you are not alone.
The third Saturday in November is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. It’s a day to honor people who have lost someone to suicide. It’s also a time to talk about the pain of loss and how loneliness can affect us.
What Is Loneliness?
Loneliness isn’t just being by yourself. It’s feeling like no one truly understands or connects with you. You can feel lonely even when you’re around other people.
For people who have lost someone, loneliness can feel even heavier. It’s not just missing the person, but also the sadness, questions, and even feelings of guilt. Research shows that loneliness can affect both mental and physical health, increase the risk of depression, anxiety and chronic illness. Learn more about the impact of loneliness from the National Institute on Aging.
Coping Strategies for Feelings of Loneliness
- Be Honest About Your Feelings
It’s okay to feel sad, lonely, or even angry. The feelings of loneliness and grief come and go. Give yourself space to experience these emotions without judgment. Try writing about your feelings, expressing your emotions through art or another creative activity, and simply talking about your experience with someone you trust. Communicating your thoughts and feelings can help them feel less overwhelming and decrease the intensity of them (UNICEF).
- Connect with Community
Being with people who understand what you’re going through can help you feel less alone. There are groups for people who have lost someone to suicide, both online and in person. Sharing your story with others who understand can bring a sense of belonging. Alaska’s Careline, 877-266-HELP (4357) or text 4help to 839863, helps people in crisis, who are grieving or concerned for someone, or just need to talk, Available 24 hours a day/7 days a week.
- Be Kind to Yourself
Grief can make survivors feel guilty or carry self-blame. Remind yourself that healing takes time. Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d give to a close friend during challenging times. Taking care of yourself can be challenging and it is essential to help you heal from the loss (Healgrief.org)
- Remember Your Loved One in Special Ways
Doing something to honor the person you’ve lost can help you feel close to them. Light a candle, write them a letter, and share stories about them with others. These rituals can help you feel connected to them in a meaningful way.
- Get Outside During the Day
Spending time in natural light, even for a short walk, can lift your mood and improve your energy levels. Moving your body can also help you feel a little better. Research from Harvard Health highlights the mood-boosting effects of sunlight exposure and physical activity.
- Talk to a Therapist
If your feelings are too big to handle alone, working with a therapist can help. A therapist can provide a safe space, guide you through your grief process, and teach you healthy ways to cope with loss. Therapy is about learning to live with your grief, not make it go away.
How to Help Someone Who Feels Lonely
If you know someone who feels alone or has lost someone, here are simple ways to support them:
• Check In Often: A quick call or text to say “I’m thinking of you” can mean a lot to someone who feels alone.
• Listen with Care: Being a good listener can really help someone who is grieving. Let them share how they feel without minimizing their pain or trying to “fix” things.
• Offer Help: Whether it’s running errands or sitting with them in silence, ask if they need anything. Small acts of care can make a big difference.
• Encourage Support: Reassure a grieving or lonely person that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage. Gently suggest therapy or a support group if they seem interested.
A Message of Hope
If you’re feeling lonely, know that you are not alone. Grief and sadness can feel heavy, but these feelings don’t last forever. Connecting with others in your community—friends, support groups, or a therapist—can make things a little lighter over time.
This International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, let’s take care of ourselves and each other. Together, we can find comfort and connection during the hard times to bring hope for brighter days ahead.
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