Join us as we explore the epidemic of loneliness, why we feel shame to admit that we are lonely, the importance of connection, and how we can seek out connection in adulthood despite a fear of rejection.
Humans have a fundamental need to form and maintain supportive interpersonal relationships. When this need goes unmet, people may experience a variety of negative consequences, including loneliness.
People who feel lonely often are ashamed to admit it. They think it’s equivalent to admitting that they are not likeable or that they’re socially insufficient in some way.
As expats, our sense of loneliness can be exacerbated by our lack of familial support and friendships. Often, the advice given is to put yourself 'out there', and while that is important, it is also important to acknowledge that for some people, this isn't easy. So if we are experiencing a fear of rejection or social anxiety, how can we connect with others in a meaningful way?