At times you’re in your room, taking a walk, sitting in class. Or maybe you’re in a group of friends. But you sense something is wrong. There’s some sort of sadness going on, something you just can’t put your finger on. Then, you realize…you’re lonely.
Alone and Lonely are two different things. You can be alone, and not lonely. And you can be in a group and feel lonely. Loneliness is caused by many things. Losing someone or something you love, moving to another city or school, starting a new job. If people around you don’t understand you, or they just don’t “click” with you, make you feel comfortable, that can lead to a lonely feeling too. If you don’t have someone to confide in, no close friends or family, or you feel left out, that can lead to feelings of loneliness.
Ky Central Park by Powell Burns
Gangs are filled with teens that have felt lonely because of a bad family situation, lack of friends, feeling unloved. All of a sudden, they have friends, they have a new family, they’re accepted. But, unfortunately that acceptance depends on committing crimes. You have to do what everyone else in the gang does in order to have a place with the others. That’s why it’s so important for families to show love and belonging to their sons, daughters, brothers and sisters.
Loneliness and Depression go hand in hand. You need to reach out before it gets out of control, before you do something to hurt others or yourself. Emotional pain leaves deep scars.
Self-medicating, drugs and alcohol, are harmful to both your body and mind. They can affect your brain, especially as a teen, and can lead to physical harm to yourself and others.
Unfortunately, loneliness is a factor in some suicides. If you’ve ever been lonely, you understand how horrible it can be, that feeling of hopelessness. And if you’ve never felt lonely, it’s important to understand how others feel. The main thing to remember is your feelings and other’s feelings are valid. They are important.
What can you do? Your parents love you and want you to be happy Talk with them about your feelings. If you’re not comfortable speaking to your parents, talk to another family member or friend you can confide in. School counselors are helpful, so are teachers that you feel comfortable with. Pets are a big comfort at this time. They seem to sense your feelings.
Seek friends that have things in common with you, whether or not they’re “popular.” It’s especially hard at school because everyone judges you so harshly. But find those that like the same things you do and that will show you the love and respect you deserve.
Daydreaming by Jaka Ostrovrsnik
Think about ways you can help someone else that’s lonely That’s a sure way to make a new friend. Even adults, especially the elderly, make good friends that can keep you from that feeling of loneliness. The elderly often feel “forgotten,” and will cherish your friendship.
So, make a change today. Search for new friends. They’re all around you, you just have to look to see.
IMG_2848.JPG by Palliativo
Take a look at this new FREE online magazine. It’s FYI Teen News! It’s got a lot of great stories, poems, fun, and more. Check it out HERE. Go to ABOUT US, then click on ARCHIVES to see current and prior issues.
Until next time, Rhea
Featured Photo: Honeycomb by Sodanie Chea
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