7 Empowering Strategies to Conquer Anxiety While Living Solo
While you might occasionally crave solitude, returning to an empty apartment can sometimes feel overwhelming. Many individuals grapple with solitude, and research indicates that those living alone are 80% more likely to experience depression. However, living alone doesn’t necessarily lead to loneliness. It can be a sign of personal growth and can both cause and stem from anxiety.
Reconnect with Old Friends
Scroll through your phone’s contact list. When was the last time you spoke with that old classmate or a fantastic colleague from your first job? Send a simple message to someone you enjoyed being around and would like to reconnect with. Reviving old friendships, especially those tied to pleasant memories, can significantly boost your confidence.
Engage in Your Community
Participating in local initiatives is a fantastic way to fill your evenings. Is there a volunteer group in your area working on community projects? Physically contributing to others’ happiness can have a positive boomerang effect, filling you with satisfaction and positive emotions.
Maintain Strong Family Ties
Keeping close contact with relatives is crucial for combating anxiety when living alone. Healthy family relationships provide a sense of security. During tough times, loved ones can remind you of your past successes and that you are loved and not alone, even if physically apart.
Embrace Technology
Technology and social media have transformed our world, ensuring you’re never truly alone. Use live streams or video calls via FaceTime or Skype to feel closer to friends with just a few taps. Online communication can help maintain healthy relationships, but ensure it doesn’t replace real-life interactions.
Consider Adopting a Pet
One of the best ways to make your home cozier is to get a pet. Cats and dogs offer significant therapeutic benefits, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and social isolation. If you spend most of your time at work or live in a small space, consider a pet that doesn’t require extensive care.
Keep Your Mind Engaged
Never underestimate the power of an idle mind. Always have something to engage with when you get home, like a book to finish or a new episode to watch. Additionally, consider special exercises and brain training, such as solving puzzles, to keep your mind occupied and avoid new doubts.
Seek Professional Help
If none of the above strategies work, consider seeking help from a professional. Sometimes, feelings of loneliness can push you toward full independence. There’s no shame in this. Remember, behind every dark cloud, there’s a blue sky. For more information on managing anxiety, you can visit the National Institute of Mental Health.
