Short messages on Mental health, stress and anxiety issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
We are just people, and no matter how hard we may try to mitigate negative emotions, they persist. You can use practical tools for gaining perspective amid the tough times.
The only thing that we really have control of is our emotions when dealing with situations. Gaining perspective is a wonderful tool for sustaining a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Loneliness can make you feel: unloved and unwanted, socially inadequate, convinced that there is something wrong with you, self-conscious and ill-at-ease with others, and angry and critical of others. Remember you can take action against loneliness, and help others who are feeling the same.
You can feel lonely when: you are alone and have no choice about the matter; you do not feel part of a group or event; there is no-one you feel you can share your feelings and experiences with; you feel disconnected and alienated from your surroundings.
Members of a family generally look out for each other and have each other’s best interests in mind. You may sometimes feel like your family might ask you questions about your problem that you don’t want to answer, but remember that they are doing it because they care.
Sometimes when you go through a tough time, you may need someone to talk to. Talking to someone who is willing to listen really makes a difference and sometimes the best people to talk to may be your own family.
Moving out and leaving home means a lot of changes: in lifestyle, work patterns and degree of independence. Having a support network of friends, family, colleagues (at work) or Student Services (at University) can help you deal with the changes without becoming overwhelmed or feeling isolated.
Some people are more at ease in groups, and others in one-to-one situations. Think about what you prefer. Find others with similar outlooks and interests. Remember that, despite what it might seem, not everyone is interested in sport or going to pubs.
Long-lasting and fulfilling friendships take time to grow. Try not to be too critical of yourself and your efforts, and be patient. Build that friendship which you want for yourself by being a good friend to others.
Don’t deprive yourself of doing something you want to do just because you have no-one to go with you, like going to a movie or a concert. All the people including you are there to enjoy themselves having a shared experience, so make the best of it.