Definition of Loneliness: Loneliness Essay Example

Nowadays, loneliness is considered to be one of the most serious public-health problems. That is why it has recently become an important study topic for many students and scientists. This loneliness essay example offers readers an insight into understanding what loneliness is and how exactly our society can overcome it.

An Epidemic of Loneliness

Loneliness is an individual`s subjective sense of lacking desired affection, closeness, and social interaction with others. Loneliness causes people to feel alone, empty, and unwanted. The most interesting thing is that some people are socially isolated and they are not lonely. By contrast, some people are lonely even if they have a lot of social contacts. Jenova Chen, a Chinese video game designer, once said that ‘the loneliness is definitely part of the journey of life’.

Loneliness can be very dangerous. It can increase the risk of death by at least 30%. It leaves us more vulnerable to cancer, ravages our immune system, lowers our pain threshold, and affects our heart health. There is often an emphasis on isolation in older people, but surveys suggest that this issue is even more prevalent among young people. Children and young adults can find it more difficult to understand their feelings and access appropriate support thus increase the chances of them becoming isolated.

We are living through an epidemic of loneliness. What is more, there is evidence to suggest a significant correlation between low socioeconomic status and social isolation. It is probable that loneliness will be an increasing problem for individuals of any age group because of the philosophy that underlies today`s materialistic society. We should clearly understand that anybody can endure episodes of loneliness during their life. However, it can be unhealthy and detrimental to the person involved.

Loneliness is the fear of being alone, more than the act of being alone. It is the feeling that there is something missing. It is the chasm between our expectations of life and  reality. You could be lonely because you are catching up with people who do not lift you up and make your life lighter. It is also an interesting fact that lonely people tend to rate their own social interactions more negatively and form worse impressions of people they meet.

Loneliness can definitely be overcome. Making contact with people can be a useful first step in helping you feel less alone. It is very important to make links with people with shared experiences, values or interests. You can also take advantage of a peer support group where you can share your feelings and experiences with people who have gone through similar things. You should always do something about your emotional state in case you:

• Think your problems are so unique that other people do not understand;
• Feel extremely self-conscious in everything you do;
• Experience low self-esteem;
• Refuse to accept change and do not want to try anything new.

It is essential to learn to spend time alone. You shouldn`t view it as a fate worse than death. It is always a good idea to be alone from time to time to remove yourself from the distractions and energy of other people. Time alone in beautiful but so is time spent with others. The most important thing to remember is that you needn`t tackle loneliness on your own.