I like being on my own but I don’t like being alone

Remember that feeling of sore ribs at the end of an evening with friends, caused by laughing so much it actually hurt?  Well, apparently this is becoming a less common experience for many with lower numbers of trusted friends per capita and the internet allowing easy communication with those at a distance, resulting in less face to face interaction and, interestingly, higher rates in feelings of loneliness amongst adults.

We know that positive social interaction boosts the immune system, reduces stress and results in a host of positive side effects.  Knowing that we have a couple of people whose ears we can always bend when our life doesn’t go to plan makes a huge difference to our levels of health and wellbeing.  So, if you feel the addition of a few new faces could enhance your life, speak to that neighbour who’s just moved in, volunteer for a local charity or try that new evening class you’ve been tempted by for months.

This is a two way tip and even if you aren’t lonely, you probably know someone who is.  Get in touch with that person and for a small investment of time you will be making someone happy, which in turn will make you happy, and improve everyone’s quality of life.