How to Address Loneliness and Depression
One of the ways people differ is in how they handle being with people. Some people thrive in the presence of others, and they relish company. You could say that they are energized by talking with others and feel the loss of company keenly. Other people enjoy people in small doses. They sometimes need to build up energy to be with people and can find interpersonal interactions enjoyable, but a little draining. Wherever you find yourself on the spectrum of whether you enjoy and thrive in the company of others, it’s safe to say that all people require human interaction for their well-being. People enjoy solitude in varying degrees, but they struggle with loneliness and isolation. Solitude is purposeful and deliberate withdrawal from others, while loneliness is when a person doesn’t get the social contact they desire or need. Often, depression and loneliness go hand in hand. The connection between depression and loneliness. When you’re going through something, having people around you who will support you makes a world of difference. Depression is a mood disorder that affects a person’s being. It affects their emotional, mental, and physical well-being and functioning. Being depressed is not a choice, and it certainly isn’t something that a person can simply get over with enough gumption or pep. Depression requires treatment, whether that’s talk therapy by itself, or in combination with medication and other interventions. Some of the signs of depression include the following: Anger and irritability. Escapist and risky behavior, such as substance abuse or an excessive focus on one’s work. Not finding pleasure in activities or hobbies that used to bring joy. Fatigue and a lack of energy. Changes in one’s eating patterns, such as eating too much or eating too little. This often leads to significant changes in one’s weight [...]