Loneliness is more common than many people realise, and Ireland has particularly high rates. Therapy can help you understand what’s driving your sense of disconnection and find ways to build more meaningful connections with others.
Understanding Loneliness
Most people experience loneliness at some point, often triggered by life changes such as bereavement, moving to a new area, ending a relationship, or starting a new job. You might feel empty, isolated, or as though nobody truly understands you. For some, loneliness becomes persistent rather than passing, making it difficult to form close relationships even when opportunities arise.
But loneliness isn’t simply about being physically alone. You can feel profoundly lonely in a crowded room or even within a relationship.
Loneliness and Solitude
There’s an important distinction between loneliness and choosing to spend time alone. Solitude can be restorative and enriching. Being comfortable in your own company is often a sign of emotional maturity and a healthy relationship with yourself.
Loneliness feels different. It comes with a sense of being cut off from others, even when people are around you. The issue isn’t the amount of contact you have, but whether that contact feels meaningful and whether you feel genuinely seen and understood.
What Causes Chronic Loneliness?
The roots often lie in earlier experiences. Childhood bullying, exclusion, or feeling like an outsider can leave lasting marks, creating a belief that something is fundamentally wrong with you or that you don’t belong. Growing up without consistent emotional support can lead to an expectation that others won’t understand or care about your needs.
The TILDA study on ageing in Ireland found that over a third of people aged 50 and above feel lonely often or some of the time. This can happen at any life stage, though, and affects people across all backgrounds.
The Cycle of Loneliness
Loneliness tends to reinforce itself. When you feel disconnected, it’s natural to withdraw further, assuming others won’t want to hear from you or that reaching out will only lead to rejection. This withdrawal increases isolation, which can deepen loneliness. Without intervention, this cycle can continue for years and contribute to depression.
How Therapy Helps
Therapy offers a space to explore what’s keeping you stuck in patterns of isolation. A therapist can help you examine beliefs about yourself and others that might be blocking connection, build confidence in social situations, and develop skills for forming and maintaining relationships. The therapeutic relationship itself can be a starting point for experiencing genuine connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is loneliness a mental health condition?
Loneliness itself isn’t a diagnosis, but it can contribute to depression, anxiety and other difficulties. It’s also a valid reason to seek therapy in its own right.
Can therapy help if I find social situations difficult?
Yes. Many people seek therapy specifically because connecting with others feels hard. A therapist can help you understand why and work on building confidence gradually.
How long does therapy for loneliness take?
This varies. Some people benefit from shorter-term work focused on specific skills, while others find longer-term therapy helpful for addressing deeper patterns.
What if I feel lonely even though I have people around me?
This is very common. Loneliness is about the quality of connection, not the quantity. Therapy can help you identify what’s missing and how to build more meaningful relationships.
How to Arrange an Appointment
You can browse therapist profiles on our website and contact someone directly, or get in touch at enquiries@mindandbodyworks.com or 01 677 1021 for a recommendation based on your needs.
