If you’re feeling lonely, you’re not alone.
A new survey from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that 66 percent of parents felt lonely or isolated sometimes. And 79 percent said they’d value a way to connect with other parents outside of home and work.
But I’m not just here to describe a problem that you’ve already noticed. Sociologists have been writing books about American loneliness for decades, and I’m the exact sort of geek who reads those books. So I come bearing options.
My (nonprofessional) advice is the same as Lucy in Peanuts: Involvement. Here are just a few options. If none of them appeal to you, hopefully they spur you to think of more choices.
1. If you’re reading this, then you probably have a kid. Have you considered getting involved in a PTA? This option provides three unique benefits. You’ll automatically have common ground with the other people in the group. You’ll get to know your kids’ friends’ grownups better. Kids tend to do better in school when their adults are more involved in their schooling.
2. You could join a service group like Rotary, Kiwanis, or a Service League. It gives you an opportunity to support your community and socialize with adults.
3. Have you considered joining or becoming more involved in a faith group? It’s easier to bond with people when you share their values.
4. There are so many nonprofits out there
looking for volunteers. What do you enjoy?
If you love animals, consider volunteering for a humane society. More of an outdoorsy type? Reach out to the Metroparks. Whatever cause is close to your heart, there’s likely a local nonprofit filled with people who share your goals.
5. What do you do for fun? If you’re looking for something more playful, follow your interests. If you enjoy playing chess or board games, there are local MeetUps for that. Love music? Find a jam session. If you like reading, you could join a Book Club. (Personal admission: I work at a library and almost all of my suggestions end with, “Go to the library.”)
6. This one’s more difficult for introverts but I’d be remiss to ignore it. Embrace opportunities to chat with your neighbors. Bring out the sidewalk chalk on a nice day and let other neighborhood kids draw too. If you admire your neighbor’s garden, let them know. Even small interactions can build meaningful relationships over time. Plus, as you get to know your neighbors better, the proverbial village that helps raise your child will grow.
Once again, feeling lonely is more commonplace than you think. Even before COVID, Americans were feeling more isolated than ever. The fancy phrase for that feeling of connection to your community is “Social Capital.” It’s one of the best indications of a good neighborhood and community.
I wish you the best of luck in finding “Your People.” They’re here somewhere, and they’re probably feeling a little lonely too.
