Positive Connections and Solitude: Contribution to Loneliness Interventions and Policy Development
Year: 2023
Type: book
Abstract: The aim of this white paper is to contribute to a wider understanding of, and stimulate conversations about, what it means to be alone. We provide a review of the multi-dimensional experiences of aloneness, which include (1) the challenges of loneliness, and (2) the benefits of solitude. It is designed to guide policy through examining the convergence and divergence points between enjoyable and distressing moments of aloneness. The mapping of these broader concepts of aloneness highlights how solitude interventions might be relevant for the many people who are isolated, feel lonely, and have poor psychological health. The paper discusses what is already known and understood within both loneliness and solitude research, taking note of the current policy direction for alleviating loneliness. We encourage anyone who is involved in research, delivery, or policy on loneliness and mental health to read and consider the findings from this paper. The literature on solitude benefits contributes more nuanced and balanced understanding and insights to the existing work on loneliness, supporting community mental health across the UK. The findings highlight the importance of positive and meaningful connections. This means social, community, environment, and self-connection. For instance, it is important that we have authentic and enjoyable relationships and interactions with others, both close and loose ties, and to feel safe where we live, and to enjoy the natural environment and community we live in. Significantly, research also indicates that we need to enjoy our own company and be able to spend some time alone. There is a higher likelihood of helplessness, alienation, distrust, loneliness, and isolation when such positive and meaningful connections with others and ourselves are not of good quality or are missing altogether. A key message from this paper is to value both alone time and social interactions, both of which need to be self-determined and embedded in safe and healthy communities.
Authors: Jones, Lisa, Nguyen, Thuy-Vy, Thomas, Virginia, Weinstein, Netta, Hewings, Robin, Smith, Matthew D., cesh, Genevieve
Institutions: Durham University, Middlebury College, University of Reading, Age UK
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6995802976