Rooftop Housing Group is proud to support Loneliness Awareness Week, an annual campaign led by the Marmalade Trust. This year's theme, Meeting Loneliness Together, encourages open conversations about loneliness and aims to reduce the stigma that often surrounds it.
Loneliness is a natural human feeling, and most of us will experience it at some point in our lives, regardless of age, circumstance and background.
While short periods of loneliness are common, long-term loneliness can have a serious effect on both our mental and physical health. Research shows that it can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or living with obesity. People who feel lonely for a long time are more likely to experience stress, poor sleep, depression, and anxiety. It can also raise the risk of heart problems and diseases like Alzheimer’s.
There are ways to take control. The first step is to recognise the feeling in yourself and accept that it’s okay. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about. From there, it helps to think about what you need. Once you know what’s missing, you can start to reach out. Talking to a friend, family member, or neighbour is a good start. Even taking small steps, like joining a local activity or saying hello to someone on the street, can help you feel more connected.
We believe that the power of community and the impact of small, thoughtful actions should be valued. Simple things can brighten someone’s day, like inviting someone for a cup of tea, going for a walk together, or checking in on a neighbour who lives alone. Sharing a smile or greeting someone during your morning walk also helps build a more friendly and supportive community to live.
If you notice that someone around you seems withdrawn or quiet, take a moment to ask how they’re doing. Showing you care can make a big difference. Every small act of kindness adds up and helps build a community where everyone feels welcome and valued.
At Rooftop, we believe in working together to create stronger, more connected communities by supporting each other through life’s challenges, including loneliness.
For more information about Loneliness Awareness Week, visit www.lonelinessawarenessweek.org.
You can also find advice and support on the Citizens Advice website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
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