Have you discovered a great way to connect with people? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Loneliness got you down? You’re not alone, and it’s probably not your imagination. Nearly a third of respondents polled by the American Psychiatric Association in January 2024 reported feeling lonely weekly, and 10% were lonely daily. Even worse for us, a 2021 report commissioned by Cigna revealed that 68% of Black adults and 75% of Hispanic adults felt lonely.
Being a strong black woman is empowering. We have a history of creating space for ourselves in the world, advocating for others, and fighting injustice. But it’s also exhausting. We need to hide our weaknesses, try to be everything to everyone (but often forget ourselves,) and fight to maintain our social, economic, and professional status.
“Carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders makes it almost impossible to practice self-care and address the things leading to your feelings of loneliness and despair,” said Vanessa Russell in an article for The Roots of Loneliness Project.
Feeling lonely now and again is a normal part of life. Still, if you have constant and unrelenting feelings of being alone, an inability to connect on a deeper level, along with deeply rooted self-doubt, low self-esteem, or social anxiety, it may be chronic loneliness. Talk to your doctor, therapist, or healthcare professional. Then, act today to avoid the risks to your health and well-being. Here’s how to bounce back and be even better starting today.
Join a running or walking group
Doing physical activities with other people might help if you’re battling loneliness. Loneliness is an emotional state related to your need for connection and belonging. Once you meet those needs, you’ll probably feel less lonely. APA pollsters selected three areas where they felt the highest sense of community: family (65%), friends (53%), and their neighborhoods (20%).
Being intentional about spending quality time with others can help you develop relationships that help you feel more supported, uplifted, and loved. Years ago, a friend and I started a Black Girls Run group in our town, and a few of them became, and still are, one of my closest friend groups. More than 12 years later, our group chat is still where we connect to plan gatherings, share funny thoughts, and chat throughout the day. A healthier lifestyle was a bonus.
It doesn’t matter what physical activity you choose. Just do it. Reserve a bowling lane, lace up your skates, or visit a national park. Or, check out Brown People Camping, Black People Hike, or Black Ski, Inc.