“Feeling disconnected from the people we rely on for help and support puts us on high alert, triggering the body’s stress response. Studies show that lonely people, like most people under stress, have less restful sleep, higher blood pressure, and increased levels of the hormones cortisol and epinephrine; these, in turn, contribute to inflammation and weakened immunity.”
But, this doesn’t have to be your destiny. There ARE things you can do to protect against loneliness so you are connected to others- you are not meant to do life alone.
Reach out to someone (they are likely seeking connection too!), make small talk, make PLANS (friendships don’t happen without work), and don’t mistake your online connection for a real one.
You can read more on loneliness HERE.
If you are lacking the confidence to reach out to others (or don’t know where to start), it may be helpful to talk to someone about it– this could be a friend, partner, or a therapist.