12 Things You Can Do to Feel a Little Less Lonely (That Don't Involve Social Media)

Whether you’re going through a break-up, you just moved to a new city, or you’re just simply in a funk, it’s normal to feel lonely every once in a while. And while social media may seem like it can boost your spirits, the negativity that sometimes accompanies apps like Twitter and Instagram can force you into comparing yourself to others. That's never a healthy practice, especially when you're feeling down. 

We’ve outlined a few suggestions for the times when you feel like life just isn’t going your way, so you don't feel the need to hop on Facebook. 

1. Surround yourself with familiar things

Blankets from home, old movies that remind you of your friends from high school, photographs from college, a candle that smells like your parents’ home. Use familiar objects to remind yourself of all the wonderful people in your life who care about you.

2. Take an exercise class

Exercise classes help you get out of your comfort zone and meet new people. Introduce yourself (if you’re feeling up for it), and if not, you’re still surrounded by new faces and getting some kind of social interaction. Plus you’re getting those endorphins flowing, which is always a positive thing.

3. Join a club

If you’re sporty, join a summer softball league. If that suggestion is anything but desirable, try a book club, a gardening club, a Star Wars club (no judgment). Make one of your interests into a social hobby!

4. Seek out popular podcasts, newsletters, or books to take your mind off things

Listen to motivational podcasts, sign up for wellness newsletters, or read books that you can completely engulf yourself in.

5. Leave the apartment

Get out of your place and do something you would normally stay-in and do. Go to the movie theater instead of watching Netflix in your bed. Read your book on a bench at a dog park. Power-walk around the block instead of inside your apartment’s gym. Find some way to leave.

6. Update your routine

Go to a different coffee shop. Explore a new park. Get dinner from a restaurant you’ve never been to before. Expose yourself to new environments, see new things, and meet new people.

7. Take a class

Channel your inner Chrissy Teigen and sign up for a cooking class. If you’re more of a bookworm, take a literature course. And if you’re more on the adventurous side, take a foreign language class.

8. Plan a fun trip or adventure with old friends

Give yourself something to look forward to with familiar faces. Exposing yourself to new people and new environments can be scary and intimidating; Make time for old friends to relieve this somewhat overwhelming feeling.

9. Practice journaling

Writing out your feelings can release the tension and stress you’re experiencing. It can also help you better understand and come to terms with your emotions. 

10. Treat yourself

This is exactly how it sounds. That facial you’ve been wanting? Get it. That massage your lower back has been begging for? Make the appointment. That overdue haircut you’re reminded of daily by your split ends? Schedule it.

11. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness practices like guided meditation or yoga can be beneficial to both your body and your mind. Attend a local class or practice in your own home with a YouTube tutorial!

12. Tell someone how you are feeling

Make sure it’s someone you trust. Whether that’s your mom, your best friend from college, or your therapist, talk out your emotions. Reach out to your best confidante and tell them you’re going through a bit of a rough patch. Don’t be afraid to let yourself be vulnerable – just saying how you feel out loud sometimes can help.