Though everyone may feel lonely once in a while, chronic loneliness is used to refer to this feeling that may persist over a long period of time. Though this is not a specific mental health condition, this feeling can affect your emotional and physical health.

Symptoms

Chronic Loneliness may manifest in any of the following symptoms:

1. Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
2. Reduced energy
3. Difficulty focusing
4. Trouble sleeping 
5. Decreased appetite
6. Body aches
7. Increase in behaviors such as shopping or binge watching shows or movies
8. Substance misuse
9. Desiring physical warmth
   

Causes of Chronic Loneliness

Some events that may be a precursor to chronic loneliness:

1. Working from home
2. Moving to a new city
3. Change in schools or job
4. End of a relationship
5. Living alone for the first time

Treatment

Although chronic loneliness is not a diagnosable condition, a mental health professional may be able to help! Talking to a therapist can help identify if there is an underlying mental health disorder and can you help you identify ways to cope with the effects of chronic loneliness. 

In addition, some lifestyle changes may help to mitigate symptoms as well:

• Volunteer in the Community
• Learn a new hobby
• Stay in touch with friends and family
• Get out of the house
• Adopt a pet