Feeling lonely? 7 things that help

By Saadat Rafiq · 2 min read · 8 steps · Updated 4 October 2026

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October 2026

Sources

1, linked below

These are the seven things to try, and the things to avoid, from the loneliness page of the UK's National Health Service (NHS).

This is general information, not medical advice. If you feel low or anxious for more than two weeks, or cannot cope, speak to a doctor.

Step by step

1. Talk about your feelings

   Try talking about your feelings to a friend, family member, health professional or counsellor.

   Done

2. Join a group or class

   Join a group or class that focuses on something you enjoy.

   Done

3. Go where other people are

   Visit places where you can just be around other people.

   Done

4. Ask about social prescribing

   In the UK, speak to your GP about social prescribing.

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5. Consider peer support

   In peer support, people use their own experiences to help each other.

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6. Volunteer

   Volunteer with a charity or organisation in your local area.

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7. Do things you enjoy

   Do things you enjoy, such as walking, exercising or listening to a podcast.

   Done

8. What not to do

   Do not try to do everything at once; set small targets. Do not focus on the things you cannot change. Try not to compare yourself to others: on social media you usually only see what people want to share. Try not to tell yourself that you are alone, and try not to use alcohol, cigarettes, gambling or drugs to relieve loneliness.

   Done

Good to know

In the UK the NHS names Age UK, The Silver Line and Re-engage, and you can refer yourself to NHS talking therapies.

Related: 5 steps to better mental wellbeing.

The pictures on this page are our own drawings, not photos. Every instruction comes from the NHS page linked below.

If you are in immediate danger or thinking of harming yourself, call the emergency number now (112 in the EU). In Germany the Telefonseelsorge is free and open around the clock on 0800 111 0 111.

In short: Talk, join, go where people are, ask about social prescribing and peer support, volunteer, do what you enjoy, and take small steps.