In recent years, citizens throughout the United States have begun to experience the effects of a loneliness epidemic. Many have begun to isolate and emotionally disconnect from others for various reasons.
How Common Is Loneliness?
According to the World Health Organization, the loneliness epidemic has begun to impact over half of the world’s adult population. Young adults, specifically between the ages of 18 and 24, are steadily becoming the most concerning. Factors such as digital media, social anxiety, and the COVID-19 pandemic all contribute to the loneliness epidemic. Individuals also struggle to find acquaintances due to scheduling and location conflicts, as well as differing interests.
Loneliness can cause an individual to experience both mental and physical health risks, such as depression, heart disease, and dementia. Self-isolation often leads to elevated stress, cognitive decline, and increased suicidal ideation.
You’re Not Alone in Your Loneliness
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in three adults in the United States has reported feeling lonely, and one in four adults reported that they do not have adequate social and emotional support. Although it’s sad to admit, loneliness is more common than one might expect. With that being said, there’s no shame in feeling alone!
Loneliness is a common feeling that many people experience, and the best way to fight it is to surround yourself with people you enjoy being around. I understand that it can be intimidating and overwhelming to make or rekindle connections, but there are now simple, creative ways to find friends.
Rekindling Old Friendships
Before spending money on paid app subscriptions and events, consider reaching out to past friends. With the intense costs of housing, groceries, and other necessities, it can be difficult to splurge on additional things such as subscriptions. For some, it may be simpler to rekindle old friendships rather than discover new ones.
Reaching out to an old friend may seem daunting, but a simple “thinking of you” message may help start up the conversation! Approach the space with an open mind by normalizing the busyness of life. Consider bringing up memories to rekindle the friendship and bridging the gap that was created. Remember that the most difficult part of rekindling an old friendship will be making the first move, but in the end it will be worth it!
Apps to Check Out if You’re Searching for New Friends
Bumble BFF
Similar to the popular Bumble dating app, Bumble BFF integrates a familiar swiping technique for users to match with individuals they would potentially get along with. The app provides a photo and lifestyle description for each person, along with chat options for users to utilize with one another. You’re able to add to your profile to include your hobbies, interests, and favorites, making it fun and easy to match with similar people. The app is free to use but includes various premium subscriptions to increase your chances of finding your future friends!
Timeleft
Calling all foodies! Timeleft is a unique platform that matches groups of six strangers for weekly dinners. The app provides a personality test that users take directly after downloading. Once you’ve completed the test, the algorithm matches you with similar people. Instead of chatting online, Timeleft encourages users to meet in person, providing conversation starters and dinner topics. The app operates on a monthly subscription, costing eight to ten dollars to cover the costs of organizing and booking each meal.
Meetup
Instead of connecting you directly to potential friends, Meetup provides users with local groups and events in which you’re able to discover new friends. Members are able to RSVP to events directly through the app, and can search for specific events by using keywords such as “swimming” or “gaming.” Users are also able to create their own Meetup group in order to gather people with similar interests. Meetup provides standard, free memberships and premium memberships that often start at $29.99 per month.
Although it may seem hopeless, loneliness is a battle that can easily be won! These apps provide simple and fun ways to connect with other individuals who may be struggling with loneliness, too.
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