Psychology says these are the lesser-known signs of loneliness

What is the first image that pops into your head when you hear the word ‘lonely’? Someone sitting alone in an isolated, dark room? Well, in movies that would do. But in reality, loneliness is more complex.

It doesn’t always look dramatic. Many times, it can be subtle. For instance, that feeling of being completely alone, even when you are sitting in a crowded room. That’s loneliness.

Loneliness is a growing concern

Loneliness is more dangerous than you think. In fact, a recent survey published by the American Psychological Association notes that loneliness has become a defining feature of life in America. More than six in 10 US adults reported feeling lonely. Half or more of adults said they felt isolated (54%), left out (50%), or lacking companionship (50%) often or some of the time. Loneliness can also have a significant impact on life. A recent study from the University of California found that loneliness drives cognitive impairment and can lead to shorter life expectancy in older adults.

What exactly is loneliness?

Loneliness is the state of distress or discomfort caused by a mismatch between the social connection a person wants and what they actually experience. According to the NHS, loneliness is very ‘subjective and personal’. The loneliness you experience can be of any type, such as emotional, social, or existential.Emotional loneliness is a state in which there is a lack of emotional attachment to someone, such as a close friend or partner.

Social loneliness, on the other hand, is a lack of friends to go out with or to share hobbies or interests with. Existential loneliness goes beyond these two. It is a sense of being in a room full of people you know and still feeling alone.While some people experience loneliness occasionally (on Sundays or at Christmas), others feel it all the time. The latter is called chronic loneliness, and it should not be brushed under the rug.

Signs of loneliness

Loneliness doesn’t always announce itself. Some signs are so subtle you’d never realise that something is off. Most of us assume loneliness means feeling isolated or not connected, but it can also have physical symptoms—symptoms that can affect your behaviour.These symptoms include:

According to the NHS, if loneliness is very severe and lasts for a long time, it might increase the risk of some physical conditions, such as dementia, and mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety, low mood, or depression.Loneliness is a shape-shifter. It doesn’t always look like what we expect. If you’re noticing these patterns in yourself or someone you care about, it’s worth taking them seriously. These signs are your psyche’s way of waving a flag, signalling that something fundamental is missing. And that’s exactly why you should speak to a medical professional to address it.Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing persistent feelings of loneliness or distress, please consult a qualified healthcare professional or mental health specialist.