Research shows that TEEN LONELINESS increases the likelihood of numerous negative outcomes, such as low grades, poor health, excessive cell phone use, and unhealthy choices like smoking.[1]
So, we’ve rounded up five things teens can do to combat loneliness.
Teen Loneliness – What Teens Can Do About It
#1 Reach out to others. We know it’s hard to make the first step, especially if you’re shy but try to do it anyway. It doesn’t have to be a big move. A smile, a nod, or a wave can already do wonders to start a conversation with someone.
Take this time to connect with others you have not been in touch with for a while. For example, look up an old friend online or call your grandparents.
Another idea is to join clubs and organizations that align with your interests. This way, you meet like-minded teens, making it easier to form new friendships.
#2 Volunteer. Participate in volunteer activities that align with your passions. This allows you to connect with others while positively impacting your community.
Here are some examples:
- babysit someone in the neighborhood
- volunteer your time in a soup kitchen or gather food items in your neighborhood to donate to a food shelter
- tutor or mentor younger students
- offer companionship and support by volunteering at hospitals or senior centers. You can assist with activities, provide social interaction, or help with administrative tasks.
#3 Appreciate the silence. Sometimes, when you’re feeling lonely, it’s easy to feel uncomfortable with silence. But silence can be a friend too.
It’s like a calm and peaceful space where you can reflect, recharge, and connect with your thoughts and feelings. Just like nature needs quiet moments to grow, you also need moments of silence to understand yourself better, find inner peace, and discover new things about yourself. Embracing the silence can help you feel more comfortable and content with your company.
You can also use this time to learn more about yourself. For example, ask yourself questions such as:
What am I grateful for today?
What do I want to achieve at school?
Is there any new activity I want to learn?
Am I eating healthy?
How can I be happier?
#4 Develop a skill. Teen life is busy, sotake moments ofloneliness as a chance to dedicate time to your interests. For example, perhaps you’ve always been interested in mindfulness but have never found time to try it. Well, now’s the time to do so!
Quick read 👁: How to Start a Mindfulness Routine
#5 Practice self-care. Do stuff that brings you joy and promotes positive feelings and experiences. This can include hobbies, exercise, meditation, or pursuing creative outlets. Self-care is important because it helps boost self-esteem and overall well-being, so you become better by taking care of yourself!
Here are some ideas for you:
- Go out and take a walk in nature.
- Listen to “feel good” music.
- Make yourself laugh by looking up funny videos on YouTube.
- Meditate for at least 5 minutes.
- Take a nap to recharge.
- Take a shower to recharge.
- Start a journal.
- Get active and exercise for at least 30 minutes (e.g., jog, run, swim, dance, etc.)
- Read a book.
Remember, overcoming teen loneliness takes time and effort. So, be patient with yourself, reach out for support when needed, and actively seek opportunities to connect with others.
[1] Matthews, T., Qualter, P., Bryan, B. T., Caspi, A., Danese, A., Moffitt, T. E., Odgers, C. L., Strange, L., & Arseneault, L. (2022). The developmental course of loneliness in adolescence: Implications for mental health, educational attainment, and psychosocial functioning. Development and Psychopathology, 35(2), 537–546. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0954579421001632
