All feelings of isolation may not be the same. Different situations and states can lead to different types of loneliness. Once we have identified it, it may be easier to pinpoint the kind of loneliness we are experiencing.

NEW SITUATION LONELINESS

You have moved to a different city, started a new job, or enrolled in a school with unfamiliar faces. It’s not surprising that you feel lonely.

I’M a DIFFERENT LONELINESS

In a way that makes it feel lonely, you may feel fundamentally different from others. Perhaps you are of a different faith than others, or your surroundings include people who enjoy outdoor activities. These differences can reinforce a sense that you are separate.

NO-SWEETHEART LONELINESS

Even though you may have many friends and family, you feel lonely because you lack an intimate connection with a romantic partner. Maybe you are a couple but don’t feel a personal relationship with them.

NO-ANIMAL LONELINESS

Many people feel a strong need to be connected with animals. If you are one of these people, you will find that companion animals can sustain you in a way human relationships cannot.

NO-TIME FOR-YOU LONELINESS

You may find yourself surrounded by people who are friendly but want to avoid the leap from being friends to being true friends. They might be too busy or have many friends. Your friends may move on to a different phase and can no longer do the same things together. The connections you have are no longer meaningful.

CASUAL-FRIENDS LONELINESS

Sometimes you find yourself in a position where your friendships need to be more profound. Although you are “friends” with others, you don’t trust them enough to see the natural person in you. A company is about trust and confidence in others. If this needs to be improved, you might feel alone, even though you have fun together.

QUIET-PRESENCE LONELINESS

Sometimes you feel alone because you are missing someone’s quiet presence. Although friends may surround you at work or with family, it is possible to feel lonely if you don’t have someone to share your home with, such as a roommate or family member. To feel less lonely, you want someone to be there, whether for a cup or a book.