Summertime Blues

Dear Lonely, 

What a timely email! Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, recently wrote, “There’s an ailment linked to increased heart attacks, depression, diabetes, crime and premature death in the U.S. and it’s affecting people no matter where they live or who they are: Loneliness.” I don’t want to frighten you, just assure you that you’re definitely not alone in your feelings of loneliness. Good for you for wanting to do something about it!

With the Snow Birds gone and activities minimized for the summer, I can understand why your feelings of isolation are more intense right now. Since you’ve confided that you find yourself somewhere on the loneliness scale, here are a few suggestions:

* Connect with a person at least once a day. Not just on social media or through other electronic means, but face-to-face or, at least, voice-to-voice. Not crazy about talking on the phone? Consider scheduling an “8-Minute Phone Call” (go to coastalbreeze.com to read my April 6th column on this topic). 

* Minimize distractions. Ask those close to you to stop checking their phone when you’re speaking to them. The same is true for you, of course. Give the IN PERSON person your full attention. Sometimes people feel lonely even when they’re not alone.

* Serve others. Studies show that volunteering and serving others eases the feelings of loneliness and helps us broaden our relationships. Our Daily Bread Food Pantry is always looking for volunteers or consider volunteering at your local church/Jewish Congregation. Check further in this newspaper for other opportunities.

* Consider starting a new hobby or reviving an old one. I find that listening to a book while crocheting is a soothing way to spend a quiet afternoon. It doesn’t solve the problem of connecting with another person but it is a nice way to connect with myself.

* Get help. Tell a friend, relative, healthcare provider, or counselor if your lonely feelings are diminishing your quality of life. Persistent hopelessness and sadness are red flags telling us to seek professional attention. If you’re having thoughts of suicide, call the 988 crisis line.

What’s one thing you’ll do to BE WITH other people this week?