Plus, actionable ways to combat loneliness (and enjoy more restful sleep).
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Think about the last time you had anightmareso terrifying it woke you up.
What did you see, feel, and think?
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Did you recover quickly?
Or did you mull over it for the rest of the day?
What Is Loneliness, Really?
Theres more to loneliness than what meets the eye, according to clinical psychologist Dr. Vanessa Kennedy.
Loneliness is a distressing feeling of isolation or lack of connected, trusting relationships, she explains.
One sign to look out for is impaired sleep, especially if it ends in nightmares.
Where Do Nightmares Come From?
Statistics showthat women are especially susceptible to nightmares triggered by stress and anxiety, explains Dr. Kennedy.
What’s the Connection Between Loneliness and Nightmares?
Loneliness can also be categorized in two ways: social loneliness and emotional loneliness.
Emotional loneliness is the feeling that one does not feel emotionally close to or well-understood by others.
Once we decide that we cant be understood, we may isolate ourselves as a form of protection.
Daily Outdoor Tasks
Dr. Marcum recommends committing to daily tasks that require you to go outside.
You dont need to make conversationby simply going outside and being around other people, youll feel more connected.
Keep an eye out for community events in your area and be intentional about going.
Support Groups
Sometimes the easiest way to relieve yourself of loneliness is by remembering thatyoure not alone.
Support groups can be an affordable way to do this, according to Dr. Kennedy.
Phone Calls
This one can be hardbut the benefits are overwhelmingly positive.
