Mental Health Awareness Week 2022
We often think that people without romantic relationships feel lonely – the divorced, single, bereaved, separated. But even people IN a relationship can feel lonely too. To the outside world, we might appear to have it all – a lovely home, good job, car, family… or have some of these things…. it might seem like we have everything, even a lovely partner. But sometimes, even with our partner, we can feel lonely.
When things are not going well between us, it can feel the loneliest place. It’s almost a bit of a taboo to say you feel lonely in a relationship. If I say that, will people think I’m ungrateful? We might keep quiet – put on a brave face and soldier on. But this isn’t healthy for us in the long run. It can affect our mood, our self-esteem, our confidence, our performance at work… It’s always best to talk about our feelings – to feel our feelings, and to tackle the negative ones.
Anyone can talk to Relate in confidence if feeling lonely – it doesn’t matter whether you’re in a relationship or not. We’re here to listen, without judgement, and help you work through these feelings.
Kaye
Trainee Clinical Supervisor
