It is normal to feel a wide range of emotions on a daily basis. Happiness, joy, anger, frustration and sadness are all common emotions—and all can be felt in a single day! That’s just part of the human experience.

Did you know that many adults actually experience intense feelings of loneliness on a daily basis? Loneliness is not only a painful emotion to deal with mentally, but it can actually manifest itself into physical conditions over time.

Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team wants you to avoid chronic feelings of loneliness, so check out our blog below to learn more.

What Causes Loneliness?

When we feel disconnected from the world around us, it can be hard to making lasting and meaningful relationships. This can happen due to the death of a spouse or family member, separation from loved ones or loss of mobility due to age or an illness. If you lose connection with the people you care about, it can feel really isolating.

Not all feelings of loneliness will cause you to become sick, however. If you feel the occasional pang of loneliness, try remedying it with a trip home or a meet-up with a close friend. Letting these instances pile up and get worse over time is what leads to physical symptoms and illnesses.

Health Conditions That Loneliness Can Cause or Worsen

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Depression

Why Is Friendship Important?

It is the natural human instinct to connect with others and the world around us. We crave community and connection on a daily basis in order to feel fulfilled and loved. When you don’t have this sense of belonging, it can cause depression or other mental health concerns to arise. If your mental health isn’t taken care of, it can be hard to take care of your physical body as well.

Even just one quality friendship can help you ward off chronic loneliness. Companionship can come in many different forms, and each relationship that you make with another person helps you solidify your sense of purpose. Get yourself out there and meet someone new or call up an old friend today.

Tips for Coping With Loneliness

• Volunteer with an organization.
• Find a walking buddy.
• Attend a local club or community event.
• Adopt a pet.
• Utilize therapy.

Remember that you are never alone. We are always here for you at AFC Urgent Care Louisville.