Loneliness: The Epidemic No One Talks About
Part 2: How to Heal Loneliness
Feeling lonely doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken—it means you’re human. Feelings come and go. You won’t always feel lonely; there is hope.
Loneliness can sneak in even when you’re with people. It shows up when you feel invisible. When no one asks how you are, or when they do, but you don’t feel safe enough to answer honestly.
We all want and need to be seen and heard.
Awareness is the first brave step in overcoming loneliness.
It might feel uncomfortable to admit you’re lonely. But naming it helps break its power. You don’t have to explain it or solve it all today. Just start by acknowledging: I miss people. I need more connection. I need more than the superficial relationships that surround me.
You don’t have to overhaul your life to reconnect.
The other day, I was speaking with a friend, and she began to cry. She had been going through a tough time, and I asked how she was. I waited for a response. She expressed what she had been going through. I listened and took the time she needed to express her feelings. She wasn’t feeling alone or lonely at that time. She knew she was heard and someone cared.
Try this:
Text one person and ask how they’re doing. Let them know you really want to know how they’re doing. Take the time to listen.
Attend a local group or church event—even if you don’t talk much.
Invite someone for coffee or a walk.
Put your phone away when you're in public spaces. Make eye contact with people and smile.
Connection starts with showing up, even if it’s awkward, even if it takes time.
Technology is tempting because it’s fast, filtered, and safe. However, a genuine connection requires presence and patience.
Set small goals:
One screen-free evening a week
Practicing eye contact and listening more than you talk
Reaching out when you need support instead of numbing out
Some games help us get to know each other better. It is also fun. One game we use is called the “Ungame”.
Counseling isn’t a substitute for relationships. In counseling, you learn to:
Say hard things out loud
Understand your patterns and fears
Build confidence in setting boundaries and trusting others again
If loneliness has taken root in your life, counseling can provide a safe space to begin building connections.
At Light the Way, we believe every person deserves to feel known, connected, and cared for.
If you're ready to take that first step toward connection, we’re here.
📞 Call 201-444-8103 ext. #1 to connect with a counselor who understands loneliness and how to walk with you through it.
You don’t have to stay isolated. Let’s walk forward together.
Cindy Picht, MA, LPC, ACS
Chief Executive Officer. Helping individuals heal from trauma and abuse and be free from anxiety. Cindy has limited availability in Midland Park.