Accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

Lonely

I have met plenty of patients who are dealing with their burdens of the world alone. This can be very overwhelming to a person who does not have a support system. The former surgeon general , Dr. Vivek Murthy has brought the topic of loneliness to the public consciousness due to its effect on people’s overall health.

You may have a co-worker, neighbor, classmate, teammate,or even a family member  who is privately suffering in silence.  Many people are struggling with:

Despite, how connected our world is through social media, there are people who still feel alone and its having serious effects on their mental health. Not feeling like you have someone to talk  to or vibe with can make a person feel as if they are on an island on to themselves. You may be asking, why don’t they talk to their co-workers, classmates, or community members.  It is not that easy.  People have different barriers that prevent them from opening up and feeling safe to confide in others.

Lonely people may feel:

Loneliness knows no boundaries.  This feeling can effect the most wealthy and famous to the poor and unknown.  It comes as a surprise to the public when they hear about their favorite celebrity struggling with a personal problem, which may be based from loneliness, and not being able to reach out to anyone.

Loneliness is not limited to mental health disorders such as PTSD, Social Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Alcohol Use Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.  Patients fighting cancer or living with diseases such as HIV may feel alone when they have no outlets or do not see progress.

We have to look out for our fellow community members and help those struggling with loneliness. Simple things you can do are:

If you are a person suffering from loneliness, you can consider:

If your loneliness has impacted different areas of your life, it may be best to seek a consultation with a mental health professional for further assistance and guidance.

We at Genesis Psychiatric Solutions are hear to assist you, if you like to know more please call (703)955-0916 or email info@gpsmindset.com

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @GPSMINDSET

Like us on Facebook: @GPSMINDSET

 

Author
Dr. Ifeanyi Olele Ifeanyi Olele, DO, MBA, MS, is a board-certified psychiatrist who sees adolescent and adult patients in the greater Washington DC metropolitan area at Genesis Psychiatric Solutions. Dr. Olele is a dedicated psychiatrist in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma-related stress disorders, and attention deficit disorders. Dr. Ifeanyi Olele is one of the few psychiatrists who utilizes psychotherapy (talk therapy) as part of his treatment plan.

You Might Also Enjoy...

What Is the Purpose of Gene Testing?

Many psychiatric conditions seem to have a familial link. While gene testing may not be a completely accurate predictor of mental illness, it may be useful in medication decision-making.

Can Medication Help Manage My OCD?

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can be a debilitating condition that leaves you feeling exhausted just from completing simple tasks. Certain types of medication may be able to help.

5 Benefits of Telepsychiatry

When the world went remote, so did many aspects of health care, including psychiatry. Telepsychiatry has many benefits for patients, especially those who find in-person visits difficult.

How Psychotherapy Can Help With Your Anxiety

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can be an excellent tool for helping you manage the symptoms of anxiety and develop coping skills that will stand you in good stead going forward.

Help! I Think My Teen Is Depressed

Feeling depressed can be terrible, but watching your teen battle depression can be even worse. Recognizing signs of depression and getting your child help is key to fighting by their side.