Loneliness
Loneliness is affecting more and more of us in the UK and we know this can have a huge impact on our physical and mental health.
In 2022 the Campaign to End Loneliness reported that almost 50% of adults in the UK felt lonely occasionally, sometimes, often or always; and 7.1% of people (3.83 million) experienced chronic loneliness, meaning they feel lonely ‘often or always’. This has risen from 6% in 2020, indicating that there has not been a return to pre-pandemic levels.
(Source: BBC, 2018)
Our connection to other people and our community is fundamental to protecting our mental health and Racing Welfare is here to help you tackle feelings of loneliness or social isolation.
Tips for tackling loneliness
Keep busy with things that make you feel good:
Keeping busy with things you enjoy can be energising and positive, but things such as working too hard or watching too much TV only serve as a temporary distraction and can actually make loneliness worse. Find a hobby or activity you enjoy and make time for yourself.
Don’t overlook the little connections:
Connecting with others can be hard when you’re feeling lonely. However, even connecting at a low level, for example talking to the check-out operator at a shop, can make a difference. Make the time to speak to the people around you, even starting up a conversation with a colleague over a cup of tea can help to improve your mood. If you are in need of someone to talk to, find out about Racing Welfare’s Check-In and Chat service.
Talking therapies can help:
Talking through your feelings with a counsellor or therapist can help you cope with your feelings of loneliness. Anyone working in racing can speak to a BACP- qualified counsellor 24 hours a day, free of charge, through Racing’s Support Line.
In 2022, 49.63% of adults (25.99 million people) in the UK reported feeling lonely occasionally, sometimes, often or always
Campaign to End Loneliness with Dr Heather McClelland
Loneliness is not necessarily linked to being a particular age, to living alone, or living in a particular area – it can affect anybody. The stigma of loneliness can make it hard for people to talk about – if you are struggling with feelings of loneliness or social isolation contact Racing’s Support Line on 0800 6300 443. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering fully confidential support.
Get Support Now
Racing Welfare’s 24 hour support line enables people to access support and
guidance through digital and telephone options.
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