You’re not alone…

by Former Member

Friday 20th November 2015

In such a big world it can become quite easy to feel lonely – even when surrounded by people every day you can still feel as though no one understands you.

I felt constantly lonely for a period of about four years. I really wanted to reach out to organisations like Get Connected, but I didn’t want to feel like I was a burden to others. These thoughts completely drained me.

It’s important to remember that being lonely doesn’t always mean being ‘alone’. I used to feel this way despite having friends and a loving family around me. I was convinced that nobody liked me and no one could possibly understand – or would want to – how awful I felt inside.

When I didn’t feel lonely, it actually fed my anxiety. I was constantly waiting for the moment when I would snap and I’d start to feel lonely again… I ended up completely isolating myself from everyone and everything, which destroyed my friendships and the relationship I had with my mother.

A year later, everything is still a work in progress to get anywhere near where I used to be. I still live with my parents although my dad may be leaving soon, but I talk to my friends every day and I also have a job I enjoy.

I do still have huge anxiety, which gives me a ‘tic’ in my brain – I sometimes believe that my colleagues aren’t being genuine with me, so I haven’t really made friends with them, but overall I think I am managing better.

Loneliness is far more common that you might think. In 2010 Mental Health Foundation reported that 36% of 18-34 year olds admitted to feeling lonely at some point in their life.

If you would like to talk through your feelings with someone, you can contact Get Connected for free and in confidence. Their new telephone counselling service could be just what you’re looking for.

This post was originally part of the Get Connected website. YouthNet and Get Connected merged to form The Mix in 2016.