Use positive self-talk. For example, tell yourself that being alone can be a good thing. Tell yourself, “It’s okay to be alone. I like my own company. " This can help you build up your tolerance to being alone. When you find yourself thinking negatively about being alone such as, “I hate being alone. I’m so lonely. This is terrible,” think of some alternative thoughts that might be more realistic and helpful. For example, you could think or tell yourself, “I can deal with being alone. I feel lonely but I know I can cope with it. It’s not so bad. Alone time can be a positive thing. "
If you are thinking you are inferior, this may lead to worrying about social interactions. Remind yourself that we are each different but equal. You are worthy. Expect positive outcomes instead of negative ones when interacting with others. [2] X Research source Think of alternative ways that the situation might pan out. For example, perhaps the person will like you! It may not always turn out as badly as you think it will.
Get a dog, cat, or any other pet (fish, hamster, etc). However, don’t overload yourself with too many pets that are difficult to manage. Make sure you identify first what you are prepared to take care of (a fish vs. a dog can be a big difference). If you’ve never owned a pet before, start small. If you cannot get a pet, go to the pet store and spend some time with the animals. You could also visit a zoo, or offer to watch a friend’s pet for the weekend.
Pick a novel that you can read for pleasure. Choose a genre that you enjoy such as adventure, fantasy, or sci-fi. You can even read a magazine. Many books are available online as well.
Going to therapy and going to family therapy are good ways to work on your relationships. Focus on engaging in social activities that can lead to friendships. Keep away from cynical and negative people if they bring you down. Ask for help when you need it.
Social networking allows you to connect without having to worry too much about rejection. Try leaving a comment on someone’s post, or sending someone a short message. When you’re socializing in person, whether with someone you know or a stranger, try making small talk. You can start with the friendly question, “How is your day going?”. Asking someone how their day is going may not seem like the start of a profound conversation, but it allows you to make a small connection with anyone you meet. If it leads to a deeper conversation, that’s fine; if not, you’ve still shared a moment with another person.
If you are interested in and connect with someone, a great way to follow up is by adding him or her on a social networking site (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter). Remember that the relationships you form may not grow deeper right away, and that’s OK. For now, focus on how it feels to connect with people in the moment.
Feeling positive about your social achievements will help you continue making an effort to connect with people. As your social needs are increasingly met, you’ll begin to feel less lonely. [9] X Research source
Go for a light walk in the park or some calming place. Watch a funny movie. Laughter really can be the best medicine; laughter has been shown to increase overall health and happiness. [12] X Research source Social support is a crucial component of preventing depression. [13] X Research source If you can, try to spend time with or talk to others in order to prevent depression. Call up a friend, coworker, or family member.
Try a mindfulness walk. Simply take a walk down the street and focus solely on your walk. Notice the sounds you hear, the things you see, the smells, and how you feel. Is it hot or cold out? Is there a breeze or is the air still? Do you see any birds in the sky? Is it cloudy or sunny out? Another mindfulness exercise is mindfulness-based meditation and guided imagery. Close your eyes and imagine you are in a safe place. This can be a beach, your bedroom, or sitting under your favorite tree at a local park. Imagine that you are there. Experience your safe place in its entirety including what it feels like (i. e. the sand beneath your toes), smells like (salty air, fish), looks like (notice the whole environment), tastes like (if you eat something or drink something), as well as what you hear (the waves crashing). When you have spent sufficient time in your safe space and feel relaxed you can open your eyes. You can practice mindfulness easily at home, by paying close attention to whatever you are currently doing. [17] X Research source For example, if you are washing the dishes - focus your attention solely on this experience. Notice how it feels on your hands, the temperature of the water, as well as what you see. Often our minds will wander when we do these types of mundane activities. Observe any thoughts that come into your mind, and without judgment, let them pass. Accept your thoughts and then re-direct your attention back to what you are doing. You can research and find many more mindfulness exercises by conducting a quick google search or using some of the resources provided here. [18] X Research source [19] X Research source [20] X Research source
Improving your nutrition by eating healthier can help prevent and decrease mental health problems. [23] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Your body needs proper nutrients to function optimally. Ditch the junk food and focus on eating plenty of proteins, complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables. Make sure you get adequate rest. This means at least 8 hours of sleep per night. Maintain a sleep schedule by going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning (even on weekends). Exercise regularly. Aerobic exercise has been linked to reductions in depression. [24] X Research source Walk, run, hike, do anything that gets you moving. If you have any current medical conditions (especially those that affect depression) make sure you have regular visits to your doctor.
Contact your medical insurance provider to inquire about obtaining therapeutic services such as therapy or psychotropic medication (antidepressants, etc). If you lack medical insurance, you can conduct a local search of low-cost mental health services. Many government agencies also provide low-cost health insurance. Psychiatrists can prescribe you medication if you are open to that. Ask your primary care doctor or therapist for a referral.
