Did you know that in the official UK government statistics for 2021/22 approximately 6% or 3 million people (of the respondents) describe themselves as lonely often or all the time? Or that the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2023 promoted research on community engagement and wellbeing? And even created YouTube content on how people with strong social connections and positive interactions also live longer and recover faster from disease? Or have you watched the Netflix series Blue Zone and seen how connections with others is a common characteristic of those across the world who are living healthy lives past their hundred birthdays?
The reality is that human beings don’t thrive on their own. Do we need solitude? Time spent in reflection and mindfulness? Time away from tech and constant distraction when we can hear ourselves think and perhaps even more importantly, feel what we feel? Absolutely. But it is reality that we humans thrive, heal and grow, in relationship to others.
Bath is a beautiful city, stunning architecture, breathtaking green spaces, live music, more galleries than you can shake a stick at – so much to offer. But here too, like everywhere all across the UK, and the world, we are surrounded by the lonely. We are lonely. Loneliness doesn’t simply look like the elderly person alone in their flat without anyone to talk to – although this is a part of the picture. Loneliness may also be the empty nester staring at an empty room, or the widower with three school age children rushing around without a moment to think. Loneliness looks like the 24 year old singleton not finding love on the apps. Loneliness is the workaholic without a social life.
We live in a fast paced, “living your best life” obsessed society. It’s easier than ever to feel as though you are failing and you have no one to relate to. Hold on – I’m going to say it… Join a book club, or start one. Go to church, synagogue, temple, mosque, whatever. Go to that NCT group you’ve been dreading. Talk. Reach out. At the checkout, at the pub. It can be to a professional but regardless of whether you go to therapy or not, we need to connect with each other. More than ever.
Contact Audrey Stephenson for a free consultation.
audreystephenson.co.uk