6) Ensuring Best Writing Practices

Acceptance and Coming to terms with loneliness during COVID-19

Acceptance

Acceptance - When we hear this word, we might be imagining a kind-hearted person opening their arms and telling us that they welcome and accept us. While this might be the definition of the word in the dictionary, this is not what we'll be trying to understand today. So to understand acceptance in terms of psychology a hot better, let's use an example:

Think of an unhappy situation like the common invasive species of garden weed. Imagine it growing in your garden. We hate the sight of it and purposefully avoid looking in its direction. Before we know it, we also stop admiring the beautiful flowers growing in our garden. And soon the flowers that used to give us so much joy start to wither away. Does this sound familiar? For many of us, we tend to avoid unhappy situations or feelings. While this may work sometimes, there’re just some things that we cannot avoid or change. Trying to avoid these things makes it worse. So let's go back to the garden situation. What do we think would've happened if we had just accepted this garden weed instead? Well, the garden pest would still be there but our relationship with it has changed. Fundamentally, this is what acceptance is. Acceptance isn't about changing the external environment because let's face it, life is unpredictable. Avoiding every uncomfortable garden pest is not possible. There will always be unavoidable things to deal with. Therefore, acceptance is a way to change the way we think and form a relationship with negative things in our life.

Loneliness

We all are social creatures. We can’t live our life without other people. We all have some situations of being alone in our lifetime. So at this time, we may feel depressed and hopeless. Also, angry. Most of the time, we may be feeling laziness and loneliness. Also, it may affect our productivity and energy.

During the phase of loneliness, studies have found people developing a feeling called "Sehnsucht" a German noun translated as "longing", "desire", "yearning", or "craving". Sehnsucht is the expression of a very strong and deep feeling of yearning or longing often accompanied by the dream of what could/would be or the wish to escape a situation or even nostalgia. Trying to translate the word literally and with its original meaning it would be close to yearning-ailment or the suffering of yearning/longing: it describes the feeling of yearning or missing someone or something to the point that it makes you unwell or sad. The meaning of ‘Sehnsucht’ is subjective to every person and depends on their circumstances and their values.

"Human beings are made for connection, Loneliness isn’t something to be ashamed of or brushed aside because it seems silly. It increases the risk of premature mortality among all ages, and one recent study even indicated that social isolation and loneliness kill more people than obesity," ~ Dr Caroline Leaf, a cognitive neuroscientist, mental health expert, and author of the upcoming book Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess.

So in this time, we may find ourselves making distractions like:

- Playing games

- Timelessly scrolling down on social media accounts

- Sleeping in the daytime

- Watching TV or films over and over again

Like any other person, We may have Googled:

How to avoid loneliness? And Google most of the time doesn't disappoint unlike most of the toxic people in our lives do.

"People think being alone makes you lonely, but I don't think that's true. Being surrounded by the wrong people is the loneliest thing in the world." ~ Kim Culbertson

This is what Google tells us most of the time:

• Spend time with yourself.
• Pick one hobby.
• Start something new and big in your life.
• Meet new people.
• Get a pet.
• Avoid staying alone.
• Don’t depend on friends and family.
• Avoid drugs, alcohol or anything addictive.

But everything written above at one point doesn't work for us most of the time, because when we are lonely, we are depressed, and when we're depressed our mind is not motivated enough to start anything new in our life. But then one point here that we could learn from Google is: "Don't Depend on your friends and family." Because only we are responsible for our happiness in our lives and it isn't good to give this control to anyone else in life.

To get to terms with our loneliness the first step is to identify the reason behind our loneliness. Why am I lonely? Is it a person, a thing or a place which is responsible for my loneliness?

If it is possible to fill that void in my life, then what things I could do to fill it?

In the second step, we may want to give time to ourselves, but most of the time our patience may give up and we may want some instant solution to cope with this loneliness. But we need to remember, that this is not a glass of water, which can be filled easily. This is our life. Our mind is the most complicated thing in the world and we need to learn how to tackle it. But most importantly it requires not giving up on ourselves.

Loneliness is designed to help us discover who we are,

And to stop looking outside ourselves for worth.

Sometimes, we just need a break. In a beautiful place. Alone.

To figure everything out.

For those who have motivation, the meaningful thing we could do to manage loneliness is to invest time in our growth through:

• Subscribing for an online course and doing a bit of work each day. The 7 Cups Academy is a tuition-free institution that trains its members, listeners, and researchers to develop skills and better care for our community. These are professional skills that are of great use even outside 7 Cups. Upon successful completion of the course, you receive a certificate and a badge. Additionally, all 7 Cups academy program graduates are eligible to request a letter of recommendation from 7 Cups. 7 cups also provide LinkedIn skill verifications and recommendations to all graduates.
• Signing up to be an online volunteer for emotional support through the7 cups Volunteer Opportunities. How Does Volunteering with 7 Cups Work?

It's easy! They provide free online training & support - all we need is an internet connection to get started.

1. Free active listening course'
2. Online volunteering from home (or via app!)'
3. Controlling our availability to listen'
4. Getting certifications to boost our resume'
5. Getting support & coaching from friendly mentors'

• Getting unconditional emotional support at 7 cups anonymously through therapists, counsellors, communities/sub-communities. People connect with listeners on 7 Cups for all kinds of reasons, from big existential thoughts to small, day-to-day things that we all experience. Unlike talking to family or friends, a 7 Cups listener doesn't judge or try to solve problems and say what to do. listeners just listen. They understand. They give us the space we need to help clear our minds.
• We may read Expert Mental Health News, Articles & Advice. Leading doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists and counsellors share mental health news, wisdom, guidance and support with articles on over 50+ topics on 7 Cups.
• Projects we could do to channel our feelings such as:

Writing Projects

• Practice catharsis through journaling each day.
• Learn hand lettering or calligraphy.
• Starting a daily blog/ vlog journaling our experiences for others to read/view.
• Writing poetries or haiku.
• Writing short stories or starting the novel we've always wanted to write.

Art Projects

• Finishing a paint-by-number project.
• needlework, knitting, or crochet project.
• Compiling a photo album that we can share later with others.
• Working on an adult colouring book.
• Taking up a new hobby like jewellery making.
• Taking up origami.

Home Projects

• Starting an organizing project in our house
• Redecorating our space by moving things around or moving things from other rooms.

References:

• Intellect: Create A Better You App/ Learning Path- Acceptance, Intellect Company
• Self-development 2.0 App/ I guaranteed you’ll never say, I'm so tired of being alone article, Laiton Apps.
• https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sehnsucht
• https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-meaning-of-the-German-word-Sehnsucht?top_ans=158904116
• https://www-insider-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.insider.com/people-less-lonely-if-they-have-empathy-compassion-wisdom-study-2020-9?amp=&amp_gsa=1&amp_js_v=a9&usqp=mq331AQKKAFQArABIIACAw%3D%3D#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16583874972576&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.insider.com%2Fpeople-less-lonely-if-they-have-empathy-compassion-wisdom-study-2020-9
• https://www.7cups.com/listener/become-a-volunteer-listener.php
• https://albany.galaxydigital.com/agency/detail/?agency_id=111677
• https://www.7cups.com/about
• https://sfresourceconnect.org/detail.php?
• https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-cope-with-loneliness-during-coronavirus-4799661
• https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/488328-people-think-being-alone-makes-you-lonely-but-i-don-t
• https://loveandkinship.com/what-you-should-say-to-someone-whos-feeling-lonely.html
• https://99designs.com/logo-design/contests/help-design-logo-cups-academy-has-trained-over-1049843
• https://unsplash.com/

@SoulfullyAButterfly

A Simple Guide to overcome loneliness during lockdown

Coping with loneliness during the Covid 19 times

The pandemic has created a shift in the normal, forcing us to adjust to a new normal for the sake of going about in our lives. In the midst of following protocols and keeping our loved ones and us safe, the problem of social isolation is unfortunately one of the psychological problem that was unexpectedly spawn as an unwanted consequence. So if you're feeling alone in this scary and unpredictable times, we want you to know that you are not alone , and your fears are completely valid in these troublesome times. However, with simple effort, one can overcome this crippling sensation of loneliness.

Here are some tips to overcome loneliness while also sticking to the pandemic protocols stated by your country or region of residence :

Practicing Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness¹, especially during these times is a is of much essence, as it helps one to work through these feelings and bring our mind on the present

Keeping touch with your family, friends and loved ones: If your family and friends are far away, you can always reach out to them via online voice chats or videocalls. Keeping in touch with your family and friends are always a good way to overcome loneliness.

Continuing your favorite pastimes and hobbies: It's during these times that you can bring back your old hobbies that you might've dropped due to lack of time, and who knows ? Maybe you can find yourself mastering that guitar that you always wanted to.

Exercise : Studies have shown that physical activities makes our body to release endorphins one of the happy hormones, and also makes you fit ! With easily available exercises app in Play store, performing indoor exercises have never been easy.

Reaching out for Online Emotional Support :There are other several websites that provide free online emotional support, the most notable one, being 7 cups of tea². One can chat anonymously with trained listeners, go through helpful growth paths and guides and even connect with several subcommunities that you relate to.

Other healthy coping methods : Activities such as journaling, learning a new language, reading a book, connecting with people who share similar interests with you online are other healthy coping methods that can help you as well.

In times like these, our mental health is always the worst affected. Thus, taking care of ourself, physically, mentally and emotionally³ is of utmost importance to keep up a productive work-life balance every day.

No matter whatever circumstance have been thrown at us, human beings were always able to overcome it and become better than before through the power of grit and determination. This too shall pass, and through small, deliberate and consistent steps, even you can get through this !

We wish you all the best in your journey !

References used :

1. https://thriveworks.com/blog/mindful-meditation-quick-fix-feeling-lonely/

2.https://www.7cups.com/112269556

3. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjIgbbpmZH5AhXP73MBHdT_Cd8QFnoECAUQAw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.helpguide.org%2Farticles%2Fanxiety%2Fcoronavirus-anxiety.htm%23%3A~%3Atext%3DAvoid%2520talking%2520about%2520the%2520virus%2Cfree%252C%2520emotional%2520support.&usg=AOvVaw0ybyWhQTm-GuwmubsiP9Gp

• https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjIgbbpmZH5AhXP73MBHdT_Cd8QFnoECAUQAw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.helpguide.org%2Farticles%2Fanxiety%2Fcoronavirus-anxiety.htm%23%3A~%3Atext%3DAvoid%2520talking%2520about%2520the%2520virus%2Cfree%252C%2520emotional%2520support.&usg=AOvVaw0ybyWhQTm-GuwmubsiP9Gp

• https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjIgbbpmZH5AhXP73MBHdT_Cd8QFnoECAMQAw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.narayanahealth.org%2Fblog%2Fpsychological-problems-associated-with-covid-19%2F%23%3A~%3Atext%3DIn%2520extreme%2520cases%252C%2520people%2Cbe%2520taken%2520for%2520them.&usg=AOvVaw3m505dQbA-EtCLtxamUHpA

• https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjIgbbpmZH5AhXP73MBHdT_Cd8QFnoECAYQAw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.euro.who.int%2Fen%2Fhealth-topics%2Fhealth-emergencies%2Fcoronavirus-covid-19%2Fpublications-and-technical-guidance%2Fnoncommunicable-diseases%2Fstay-physically-active-during-self-quarantine%23%3A~%3Atext%3DSedentary%2520behaviour%2520and%2520low%2520levels%2Ca%2520combination%2520of%2520both.&usg=AOvVaw1QHRtyLhCRRf6K1Zn_TNxr

Note : I couldn't hyperlink the text, so I have added a number as subscript to the words that should be hyperlinked and have added rescpective links adjacent to it in the resources heading.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

@SoulfullyAButterfly

This is the middle part of the article:

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According to www.mass.gov, these are the ways to manage isolation and loneliness during the pandemic.

• Check in with loved ones. When far away with people you care about, go the extra mile and try to regularly check in on them. While all of us are experiencing loneliness and isolation in varying degrees, it is important to channel all those energies into something more productive. Start by reaching out to your loved ones on a regular basis. This will not only benefit them but your own mental health as well.

• Schedule virtual sessions with friends and families. If you’re not the type to have regular check-ins with family and friends, schedule virtual sessions with them. Conversations between people you care about no matter how short will do wonders for you.

• Be active. Another way to channel your energies is to be active. With the help of online tutorials, there are tons of videos that can be found on the internet. Dance classes, Zumba routines, cardio and flexibility exercises… you name it! There are also mobile applications that can help you be more active so take advantage of those.

• Offer help and assistance to less able-bodied people around you. We all have neighbours who need assistance for various reasons. Offer help to them; when you buy groceries, pay your bills, or when you’re just going out to buy yourself something for dinner, knock on your neighbor’s door especially the elderly ones and offer to include their errands. You not only make someone feel better but you earn a new friend.

• Take note of when to use social media. While social media is a great avenue to keep in touch with friends and family from all over the world, according to www.forbes.com, it has its harmful effects on mental health. It makes people addicted, it triggers more sadness because people tend to compare themselves to the lifestyles of those on their friends’ list, and sometimes ignite feelings of jealousy which is mentally unhealthy among others.

• Search for available resources online. If you find yourself having difficulties in coping with loneliness and isolation, you can find resources available online to help you process your thoughts and emotions. You can visit us at www.7cups.com and find an active listener to talk to or join our discussions on our forums or group chat rooms.
  
  

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/managing-isolation-and-loneliness-during-covid-19#creative-ways-to-manage-isolation-and-loneliness-

https://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2017/06/30/a-run-down-of-social-medias-effects-on-our-mental-health/?sh=5b78e07c2e5a

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Feeling lonely in quarantine? It’s normal and okay to feel lonely when faced with staying indoors and being forced to interact with lesser people than usual, especially when there is a constant fear of catching the virus. These factors could increase the chances of developing mental health issues. According to a report from 2017, social isolation and loneliness can be linked to poor mental and physical health. Though, the good news is, you CAN cope with this, and even feel better!

Here are some tips for you:

1. Remember to stay active: spending weeks of isolation with no exercise can be detrimental to your coping abilities. Practicing yoga and trying out workouts can be ways to stay active.

2. Connect with others: Traditional and techy ways of communication is a great way to stay in contact with your loved ones. Explore and experiment with new ways of staying in touch with friends and family.

3. Work on projects: Write a story or a blog, paint something, or work on your crochet skills. Try something new and find your hidden talents!

4. Try distracting yourself: Reread some of your favourite books, binge your favourite shows snuggled up with the comfiest pillows, engage yourself in challenging games like crossword puzzles, sudoku or online chess.

How many of these suggestions do you think you could try out?

Always remember, you are loved. You are amazing. And you matter!

Links: https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-cope-with-loneliness-during-coronavirus-4799661

https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/coronavirus/coping-with-loneliness-during-coronavirus/

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Has Covid really made us more lonely?

We have all heard around that the pandemic and lockdown has made us all more lonely but there is a difference between haing to social distance and feeling lonely as Mareike Ernst said in his article "Social isolation means having small social network and few interactions with others, while loneliness is the painful feeling of having less or poorer quality social connections than a person wants" so how many of us are really lonely and how many are just tired of being isolated? Anyway as we go on the number of people that feels lonely grows and we have to cope with that. The number of meeting apps has grown and more old people have learned how to use a phone. Workers if they can use a computer but try to stay in contact. We all have our ways to cope depending on where we start.

• Learning to use a phone
• Staying in contact during smart working
• Meeting apps

Some have found 7 cups to deal with loneliness where they found a listening ear.

The fact is that studies in more developed countries say that not many of us are really lonely.

https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2022/05/covid-19-increase-loneliness a study by Mareike Ernst and others

@SoulfullyAButterfly

How to tell you're lonely

Loneliness is a terrible feeling. Making sure you are among people can sometimes help for a while. But for those who feel lonely often and strongly, that's not enough. Loneliness does not go away by itself.
You can usually do something about loneliness. For example, by trying to make new contacts. Or by improving existing contacts. Is this easy? Maybe for some people, but not for others. It is a matter of perseverance and often taking several steps - until the right one is found.

Loneliness is sadly something you have to deal with yourself. Help from the environment can help, but ultimately you have to try to break through the loneliness yourself. Without your own efforts and motivation you will not succeed. If only because others on the outside cannot see that you feel lonely. This is why it's important to communicate your feelings to others.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic”

Step 1: Embrace your alone time

When you are lonely,embrace it. Do things you can only do by yourself. Dance around your room to music. Spend time in prayer or mediation. Workout and do yoga. Read a long book. Learn to appreciate the time you have to be alone. 💜

Step 2: Don't wait for someone to connect with you- connect with them!

When you're lonely, ask yourself if you're doing anything about it. No one can help you if they don't know about your loneliness. Don't wait for others to reach out to you. Call someone out the blue. FaceTime people. Send a handwritten letter. Connect here on 7 cups. 💜

Step 3: Practice extra self care

Loneliness relates strongly to depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. Make sure to take good care of yourself if you're feeling lonely. For example, take a bubble bath and do a face mask. Treat yourself to a dessert or fancy coffee. Sleep in. Whatever you need to do for yourself, do it. 💜



@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During COVID-19 Pandemic

Loneliness during pandemic turned out to be a social issue that affected all beyond borders and classes, making everyone equally victimized. Everyone was not the same, some fought back strong, some failed, some stayed silent and others tried various other ways. It made the world to stop a little and concentrate on self care and growth. Some simple steps can be taken like, try to embrace yourself and hope for the best, try connecting with people known or unknown and get involved in interactions, give more time to think about your lifestyle and growth physically, mentally, emotionally [1]. You are the master of your life, so it is you who got to take up on ways to overcome loneliness [2]. You know which is better for you, unless you speak out no one will know what you are undergoing. There is always a soul to listen and support you.

[1] Heinrich, L.M. and Gullone, E., 2006. The clinical significance of loneliness: A literature review. Clinical psychology review, 26(6), pp.695-718.

[2] Cacioppo, J.T. and Cacioppo, S., 2018. The growing problem of loneliness. The Lancet, 391(10119), p.426.