How to beat loneliness

This Loneliness Awareness Week (15-21 June) take the time to connect with others who understand what you’re going through, and find out what support we offer

Loneliness Awareness Week, hosted by loneliness charity Marmalade Trust, aims to reduce the stigma around this natural human emotion, and last year their campaign reached 231 million people globally.

Loneliness Awareness Week highlights one of the biggest hidden impacts of Complex Regional Syndrome (CRPS). For many living with the condition, the physical symptoms and pain are visible, but the impact on your mental health and social life isn’t so obvious. Loneliness amongst CRPS patients is common, as chronic pain can often make it very difficult to keep up with social commitments – even something simple like meeting a friend for coffee or attending a family lunch can feel unmanageable. Plans are often cancelled at the last minute due to flare-ups, fatigue or mobility issues. Over time, this can leader to a smaller social circle and you might start to feel disconnected from the world around you.

Feeling lonely can even increase your sensitivity to pain – one study found that lonely individuals had 2.1 times higher odds of experiencing physical pain, largely accounted for by psychological distress. Loneliness and isolation can also impact sleep, mental health and contribute to cardiovascular issues.

There is no shame in feeling lonely – most of us will experience loneliness at some point in our lives, no matter your age, circumstances or background. The more we talk about loneliness, the more we normalise it.

As CRPS is a fairly misheard of and misunderstood condition, it can be especially lonely, as you may struggle to find people who understand what you’re going through. Talking to people who also have CRPS and have experienced similar symptoms can be hugely beneficial.

There is no shame in feeling lonely – most of us will experience loneliness at some point in our lives

At Burning Nights CRPS Support we have a range of free support on offer to help you connect with others, or if you just want to talk:

• Monthly online support groups on Zoom
• Virtual befriending service – someone will call you weekly for up to 12 weeks
• Call our helpline on 01663 795055, Monday-Friday 10am-4pm
• Live chat support  – run by our volunteers who have been diagnosed with CRPS or care for someone with the condition
• Online community forum – open 24/7
• Support on social media and by email

As part of the Loneliness Awareness Week campaign, on their website you can find events in your area, with chances to make new friends over a cup of tea at a Warm Welcome Space near you, meet-ups at community cafes, walks and laughter yoga, among others. You’ll also find ideas for connecting with nature. Getting outside in a green space and being in nature is a brilliant non-medical way to improve mental health and combat loneliness. You could also look for a local walking group, and many run walk and talks – these groups are non-judgemental, supportive and often free. 

If your loneliness persists and you are struggling, it’s worth talking to your GP as they will be able to recommend further support.

Remember loneliness is temporary, and it won’t last forever – we hope you’ll find the support in this article useful, we are here for you all year round, whenever you need to talk.