QUESTION
Hi Kiara,
I’m having a hard time dealing with my loneliness after my gay boyfriend split up with me this month. Do you have any tips on how I can overcome these feelings?
Love,
Alex!
ANSWER
Hi Alex,
When you break up with someone, it’s normal to feel depressed and lonely. It’s okay, I’m here. To cope with loneliness, try these tips:
- Embrace your loneliness and admit it to yourself and others: Speaking openly and honestly about your emotions can help you release some of their weight, and reaching out to others can help you form stronger bonds. It can make all the difference to know and see that people care about you!
- Become a volunteer, join a club or sporting group: Regularly seeing people makes it easier to make friends than meeting them once or twice at a club. It has been found that people become happier over time when they start volunteering.
- Get closer to your acquaintances: Many people don’t make contact with friends they already know. Because you have a pre-existing relationship, it takes little effort to deepen your connection.
- Don’t be a drug addict: You might feel more confident temporarily, but you’ll feel isolated and lonely in the long run. Most major cities have LGBTQ meetings of AA or NA if you’re abusing alcohol or drugs.
- Consult a gay-affirmative therapist: While there might be some stigma attached to seeing a therapist, they are there to help you find creative solutions. Your self-esteem and confidence will increase as you learn to deal with your existing feelings of loneliness. Another good option is group therapy, where you can get to know other gay individuals and learn more about yourself.
Yeah, these are some tips that you can try to help you overcome this problem. In case you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Love,
Kiara!
