By Jennifer McDougall
Loneliness is often times what causes people to run to drugs and alcohol for relief away from their misery. They might not admit it right away, but eventually they truth seeps out. They are hurt for one reason or another and have chosen to distance themselves from society as best they can. This can be quite dangerous because extreme loneliness can also lead to major depression, overdose, and even suicide. It might not happen overnight, but as the days and weeks go by bad habits grow and have potential to become a full-blown addiction. This is why it’s important to evaluate your behavior pattern and keep your thoughts in check. It’s okay to feel lonely from time to time; in fact, it means you’re longing for something greater– something beyond just the company of yourself.
“Let me tell you this: if you meet a loner, no matter what they tell you, it’s not because they enjoy solitude. It’s because they have tried to blend into the world before, and people continue to disappoint them.”
― Jodi Picoult, My Sister’s Keeper
Instead of seeking out the human connection when a person is feeling lonely, often times they choose to isolate themselves because they would rather be alone where no one can hurt them than to be around people and feel vulnerable. This type of behavior attracts others who are experiencing similar situations, which can lead to destructive bonds and toxic relationships. When someone is lonely or feeling depressed instead of linking up with another who’s feeling the same, it would be best to seek out a friend or companion who can offer you strength and guidance rather than drag you down a road of darkness and destruction. It takes a great deal of awareness to notice the difference between helping you out with true integrity and a walk down the wrong path. It might even feel hopeless at times that there’s no one to relate to, but that feeling will soon pass.
Someone who is lonely and sinking into deep depression will begin to do just about anything to numb the pain racing through their bodies. It’s important to understand the simple act of kindness can do wonders for someone who’s feeling so awful. A simple phone call, text, funny Facebook post, or tagging them in a cute or inspirational meme can help more than you know.
To help prevent addiction from happening to someone you love, pay attention to the jokes (there’s a little truth behind every joke), listen when they speak (people suffering from loneliness and depression have to muster up more energy than you think just to speak), hug them as often as possible (human touch is very powerful), and don’t be afraid to check in on them once, twice, maybe three times a day. Even though someone says they want to be left alone, that’s not always true. What they truly want is just someone to sit quietly with them and be there.
If you are someone who has found yourself in the rabbit hole, drowning is poor choices, and a dependency on drugs and alcohol, make Passages Addiction Treatment Centers your next phone call. We offer the best drug and alcohol treatment in the world and rated “The Number 1 Rehab in The World” by Healthcare Global. Our team of licensed nurses are on site 24/7 and our holistic approach to healing is covered by most insurance policies. To learn more and get out of this hole you’ve crawled into call (888) 397-0112 today. Your future is waiting!
Image via We Heart It
