This episode focuses on understanding loneliness in the teenage years. The talking points include:
- Loneliness is common - especially in your teens.
- Young people suffer from loneliness more than any other age group.
- Loneliness can occur even when we’re surrounded by people. It’s a feeling of being disconnected - not seen, not heard, not understood.
- Understanding negative impacts of loneliness.
- Depression
- Higher risks for substance abuse or risky behavior
- Physical problems can even happen because of loneliness.
- Understanding the benefits of loneliness.
- Creates empathy
- A chance to get to know yourself and connect with YOU
- An opportunity to try new groups and people and adventures
- Things to do when you feel lonely.
- Name it to tame it
- Focus on connection rather than numbers of people
- Get creative
- Take care of yourself (sleep and exercise)
- And more...
RESOURCES:
- Kids Helpline: Coping with Loneliness https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/issues/coping-with-loneliness
- Baya Voce: The Simple Cure For Loneliness (Ted Talk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSXh1YfNyVA
- Brene Brown, Daring Greatly https://www.amazon.com/Daring-Greatly-Courage-Vulnerable-Transforms/dp/B07DX6TNR1/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=daring+greatly&qid=1588458274&sr=8-1
- Brene Brown, Rising Strong https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Strong-Reckoning-Rumble-Revolution/dp/0812995821/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1588458348&sr=1-1
- Why Are Teens So Lonely And What Can They Do To Combat Loneliness https://www.mghclaycenter.org/parenting-concerns/teenagers/why-are-teens-so-lonely-and-what-can-they-do-to-combat-loneliness/
- Newport Academy: How to Recognize Loneliness in Teenagers https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/mental-health/loneliness-in-teenagers/
