Combatting the Grief of Loneliness after a Loss

For those who have made a choice about living alone and loving it, it can be a liberating way of life.  But the grief of loneliness after a loss, whether from the death of a loved one, or after divorce can be tough.  

Loneliness goes hand in hand with grief after bereavement or separation and it can be difficult to work out how to live alone again. 

Woman Alone Staring at the Sunrise - Coping with the Grief of Loneliness after a Loss

What Does Loneliness Mean? 

After all, we are surrounded by millions of people on this planet, and unless you live up a mountain or in the outback, there are people about.  Often those who do live in isolation wouldn’t call themselves lonely, as they are content with their own company.  

So perhaps the definition of loneliness is unwanted isolation.  Or missing those we have lost to the degree that we can’t make new friends or lovers. 

Grief of Loneliness in Old Age

In old age, loneliness is often caused by ill health and disability which means that it is more difficult to get out and see people.  In this case, it is important to seek help and find out what services can be provided for home visits and transport to day centres and activities.  

Get some interesting suggestions for activities to combat the grief of loneliness.  

Loneliness after Divorce

After divorce or separation, loneliness is often compounded by a lack of confidence brought on by feelings of rejection.   Many people don’t realise that divorce can cause as much grief as if the person had died so you don’t get as much support.  

So how do we progress from loneliness to living alone and loving it?  How do we learn how to overcome loneliness? 

Becoming content with who you are and enjoying your own company is easier said than done if you’re not in the habit.  

The trick is to get in touch with who you are again, and what you want out of life.  For those who have spent many years caring for partners or children, it can involve a lot of soul searching to find out what you want out of life and who you are.  

One way is to think back to who you were at school, when you were young and before you took on so many responsibilities.  

Think about those things that you’ve always wished you could do but hadn’t had the chance.  

Another way is to find like-minded people and get out and about with them.  Whatever experiences you have had, there will be others who have similar ones, or who have interests or hobbies in common with you.  

Do some internet searches in your local area for things that interest you.  It takes confidence to join new groups, but take small steps and realise that others are in the same boat and are feeling like you too.  Take an interest in others and you will soon make new friends and join the ranks of those who are living alone and loving it.  

Let’s Just Look at a Few of the Advantages of Living Alone.  

  • You can get up when you like and go to sleep when you like
  • You can eat what and when you like
  • You can leave the place a mess
  • You can tidy up and it will stay tidy
  • You can spread your hobbies or crafts all over the house 
  • You don’t have to dress up for anyone
  • You can watch exactly what you want on TV without interruption
  • You can make a noise, or have peace and quiet
  • You can enjoy your own taste in décor without worrying about someone else’s opinion
  • You can come and go as you please without having to let anyone know 

Recommended Read: 

Related Pages: 

The Effects of Divorce and How to Cope

Books on Coping with Grief

A Story of Coping with Loneliness at Various Stages of Life

An Interesting Article with Discussion Comments about Living Alone and Loving It




Where to get help: 


Have You Considered One-on-One Online Grief Counseling? 

Get Expert and Effective Help in the Comfort of Your Own Home

The following information about online counseling is sponsored by 'Betterhelp' but all the opinions are our own. To be upfront, we do receive a commission when you sign up with 'Betterhelp', but we have total faith in their expertise and would never recommend something we didn't completely approve.  

Do you feel alone and sad with no support and no idea how to move forward?  It can be tough when you are stuck in grief to find the motivation to get the most out of your precious life. 

Online counseling can help by giving you that support so you don't feel so alone. You can have someone to talk to anytime you like, a kind and understanding person who will help you to find meaning in life again, to treasure the memories of your loved one without being overwhelmed and to enjoy your activities, family and friends again.

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  • Or read more about how online counseling works here.  
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Hypnosis for Grief - 10 Ways It Can Help You

Try a gentle hypnotherapy track to relax the mind. Learn how self-hypnosis can help you cope with grief at any time of the day or night.  

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