When we are dealing with mental health challenges, it can get isolating. It feels like a heavy weight nobody can see. Even when we’re surrounded by people, the loneliness of dealing with these struggles feels overwhelming. If this resonates with you, let me first say: you’re not alone, even if it feels that way. So many people experience the same thing, and it is okay to feel what you’re feeling.

There is a silver lining though. There are ways to cope with this loneliness and create moments of connection and self-compassion, even in the toughest times. Let’s talk about a few ideas to help.

Acknowledge What You’re Feeling

First things first: let yourself feel your emotions without judgment. It’s okay to admit you’re feeling lonely. Sometimes, the hardest part of loneliness is trying to ignore or fight it. But pushing it away doesn’t make it disappear—it just makes it louder.

Take a moment to sit with yourself and name what you’re feeling. Are you sad? Overwhelmed? Disconnected? Naming your emotions can make them feel less overwhelming and remind you that feelings, while powerful, are not permanent.

One of the toughest parts of loneliness is believing you’re the only one experiencing it. But the truth is, so many people—more than you might realize—feel the same way. Your feelings don’t make you strange or unworthy; they make you human.

Reach Out, Even If It’s Hard

When we’re struggling, reaching out to others can feel like climbing a mountain without any equipment. We worry about being a burden or not knowing what to say. We worry about being “too much” and not enough for the other person. But the people who care about you want to know how you’re doing—they just might not know how to ask.

Start small:

• Send a text to a close friend or family member.
• Call someone you trust and simply say, “I’ve been feeling a little lonely lately. Can we talk?”
• If words are hard, consider sharing something you’ve read or a meme that made you smile as a way to open the door to connection.

You don’t need to explain everything all at once. Just letting someone know you’re there can start to ease the loneliness.

Join a Supportive Community

Finding people who understand what you’re going through can make a world of difference. Whether it’s an in-person group or an online community, connecting with others who share similar experiences can help you feel seen and understood.

A community can be explored through:

• Support groups: Many mental health organizations offer free support groups for people coping with similar struggles.
• Online forums: Platforms like Reddit or mental health apps have spaces where you can share and connect anonymously.
• Hobby groups: Joining a group focused on a shared interest, like a book club or art class, can provide a sense of connection without the pressure to talk about mental health.

Practice Self-Compassion

Loneliness often comes with harsh self-talk. You might blame yourself for feeling this way or think you’re not “good enough” to connect with others. But here’s the truth: struggling doesn’t make you weak, broken, or unworthy.

When those critical thoughts creep in, try to respond with kindness. Imagine how you’d comfort a friend feeling the same way. Maybe you’d say, “It’s okay to feel like this. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough.” Practice giving yourself that same understanding.

Create Little Moments of Joy

When loneliness feels like a heavy blanket, it can help to weave small glimmers into your day. They don’t need to be big or perfect—just tiny things that make you feel a little lighter.

Try:
• Watching a favourite show or listening to comforting music.
• Spending time with a pet or visiting a park to see animals.
• Writing down three things you’re grateful for, no matter how small.
• Doing something creative, like drawing, journaling, or cooking.

These moments might not erase the loneliness, but they can remind you that joy still exists, even in small doses.

Talk to a Therapist

Sometimes, loneliness tied to mental health struggles can feel too big to tackle alone. That’s where therapy can help. A mental health professional can provide tools, strategies, and a safe space to explore your feelings. There are many therapists listed on our website as well.

If starting therapy feels intimidating, remember: it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Research therapists in your area or look into online options, which can be more accessible. Reaching out for help is a brave and important step.


Lean on Routine

When loneliness feels like it’s swallowing you whole, structure can offer comfort. Having a simple routine—waking up at the same time, eating regular meals, or stepping outside for fresh air—can provide small anchors in your day.

Routines don’t need to be rigid or perfect. Think of them as gentle reminders that life keeps moving forward, even when it feels still.


A Final Thought
Coping with the loneliness of mental health struggles isn’t about snapping out of it or finding quick fixes. It’s about creating small moments of connection, compassion, and care for yourself. It’s about remembering that even in your loneliest moments, you’re worthy of love, support, and belonging.
So, take it one step at a time. Reach out, lean on kindness—toward yourself and others—and know that this season of loneliness doesn’t define you. You’re not alone, and brighter days are ahead.