Loneliness and Self-Care

Written by Acacia Soares - Content Writer at Strength to Strength Mental & Physical Healthcare

* SELF-CARE TIPS PROVIDED BELOW

The majority of Australians experience feelings of loss and sadness when they are alone on Valentine's Day, an event traditionally known for love, says a non-profit organisation.

Relationships Australia NSW is a non-profit organisation specialising in mental health support to inform, educate and empower people to build and maintain safe and respectful relationships.

The organisation’s online survey reported that in 2019, more than 18 per cent of women and 13 per cent of men said the worst thing about Valentine's Day is that ‘it makes people who are not in a relationship feel bad’.

According to the Finder survey, almost three-quarters (68 per cent) of Australians did not celebrate Valentine's Day in 2023.

One of Strength to Strength’s personal trainers, Isabel Ballard said Valentine's Day is hard for everybody who doesn't have someone to share it with.

“I said to one of my clients I've been married forever and have three kids,” she said.

“My husband and I don't celebrate it at all, but I give my kids a heart chocolate on Valentine's Day.

“It doesn't have to be, you know, a love interest.

“It can be your family, it could be your friend, it's really just about showing someone that you love them, just sort of reinforcing that there are people around you who love you and care for you.

“Doesn't have to be a boyfriend or partner.”

Last year, Australia’s national organisation, Ending Loneliness Together (ELT), launched a State of the Nation Report including 4,026 Australians aged 18 years to 92 years old.

This study found that over 6 million Australians feel lonely, and 1 in 2 people are too embarrassed to talk about it due to misconceptions and stigma around loneliness. The report also said only 22 per cent of people who are lonely met the guidelines for physical activity.

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, loneliness is associated with poor physical and mental health outcomes, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.

Ballard said physical fitness and mental fitness come hand in hand.

“My clients enjoy exercising because it's with someone,” she said.

“It's not necessarily Valentine's Day as such, it's pretty much every sort of holiday.

“I just reinforce my clients to be around people who they love and I incorporate exercise in that.

“So I'm saying, ‘if you are lonely, ring up your brother or go for a walk with your brother’.

“Christmas for her, you know, she was going to be alone.

“And I said, ‘Well, why don't you ring your brother? Why don't you ask them if you could sleep there and stay for a couple of days?’ and things like that and she did actually.

“She had a great Christmas.”

Self-Care Guide For This Valentine’s Day!

1. Prioritise yourself!

Take time to relax and do activities you enjoy. You can try reading a book, taking a long bath or watching your favourite movie.

2. Spend time with friends and family:

It is a good reminder there are people who love you, and you are never truly alone. Remember to have some fun and make new memories.

3. Physical activity:

Go for a peaceful walk or a morning run, you can go swimming or do a workout. Sometimes getting out of the house is a great way to clear your mind.

4. Practice gratitude and self-love:

Write down a few things about yourself that you are grateful for. Journaling can be helpful in setting your intentions and goals for the day.

5. Rest and recharge:

Enjoy a sleep in or an early night, try meditating or listening to music. Being alone does not mean you have to feel lonely, learn to enjoy your own company.

6. Take a break from technology:

Valentine’s Day is largely commercialised through social media, but it doesn’t have to disturb your peace. Try to take a break from the media and practice one of these self-care tips instead.

7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help:

If you are struggling with feelings of loneliness, isolation or the loss of a significant other, you may want to talk to someone outside your family, like your general practitioner (GP) or a counsellor.

Here are some other support services to help you battle feelings of loneliness, social isolation or loss:

Beyond Blue (open 24/7) - 1300 22 4636
Listening Ear - 02 9477 6777
Wellways Australia - 1300 111 500