The 7 types of loneliness: how to manage them?

Loneliness is a feeling that we have all experienced at some point. However, the meanings we attribute to it can be very varied. While for some it suggests isolation, for others it means refuge. Its implications are so broad that we cannot determine a single meaning for this term, since there are many types of loneliness.

The way we experience loneliness depends on our personality, but also on the context and circumstances that surround it.. However, since it is something unavoidable, the smartest decision is to learn how to manage it. In this sense, the first step is to recognize the different types of loneliness that we can encounter.

Types of loneliness

Transient or chronic

The first aspect we must look at to define the types of loneliness we face is its duration. So, Transitory loneliness is that which occurs punctually and limited in time.. We can feel it when we lose an emotional bond that is important to us, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a friendship or the breakup of a relationship.

We can also talk about temporary loneliness when it is It is motivated by external circumstances that make it expected. Thus, when we move cities or when we start a new job, we can feel alone. It is a fleeting sensation that will disappear the moment we meet and connect with new people.

On the contrary, Chronic loneliness is that which has established itself in our lives. It is not related to specific circumstances, but rather derives from our attitudes and fears.

Some people, due to past bad experiences, choose loneliness to avoid facing the possible harm that relationships with others can cause them. Thus, this situation of isolation has been maintained for a long time and there are no plans to change it in the short term.

Contextual or global

On the other hand, A loneliness limited to a specific context is not the same as another that encompasses practically our entire life.. We can, for example, feel alone on the emotional level as a couple, while at the same time enjoying abundant and meaningful relationships in other areas.

The case would be different for those people who suffer from a general lack of human contact and social interaction. Either because they avoid this approach or because, for various reasons, they do not have those links.

Social, emotional or existential

Furthermore, we can differentiate between social, emotional and existential loneliness. Social loneliness refers to the experience of feeling isolated or excluded from a group, regardless of whether we belong to it or not. Thus, if the people in our daily environments reject us or do not admit us into their circle, we can feel alone. The same will happen if we do not have friends or social connections that satisfy our need to belong.

For his part, Emotional loneliness implies that our ties are not meaningful or do not provide quality support. It happens when, despite being surrounded by people, we do not feel accompanied, understood or emotionally nourished.

Finally, Existential loneliness is a more transcendental concept, linked to the human need to give meaning to our experiences. When this type of loneliness appears, we feel disconnected from everything and everyone, feeling unable to fill a void that persists despite having, at least apparently, everything we may need.

Not all types of loneliness are negative

However, loneliness is not necessarily a state or feeling of negative valence. It is an opportunity to spend time with ourselves, getting to know ourselves, listening to ourselves or healing wounds that may hurt us. It also offers us the opportunity to recharge our energy when the degree of social stimulation overwhelms us. Finally, it teaches us to value, appreciate and be grateful for our own company, so that we do not need to beg for the presence of others.

Nevertheless, We have to ask ourselves if we really value our loneliness or if we cling to it out of fear.. Being alone is healthy and enriching, but we all need to interact and get involved with others.

Therefore, do not fear your loneliness but do not cling to it to avoid disappointment, rejection or pain. Strengthen yourself so that your decisions are free, fear is not a good advisor.

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