Loneliness: Coping and Flourishing
摘要
Loneliness has been here since the beginning of time, as it is evolutionarily instilled in us to protect us, and ensure that we remain connected to the community, without which survival is not assured, neither in the animal nor the human kingdom. Loneliness is a painful experience, especially when it is experienced over a long period of time. Humans avoid pain, and since it is impossible to avoid loneliness, it can—atleast—be managed, coped with, and possibly even lead to personal growth. This chapter outlines the various approaches to coping with loneliness and addressing the pain it causes: from internal work via cognitive restructuring and finding meaning in life, through attending psychotherapy, joining a community, and being assisted by technology in getting relief from the suffering loneliness causes. A model is presented, based on decades of research of a holistic approach to coping with loneliness, and not only assuaging its pain but also experiencing self-growth as well.