by Maria Mylona

Loneliness is not just a temporary condition, but can develop into a serious psychological and physical problem. Men in particular seem to suffer from it more, but they rarely talk about it. Why is this the case and how can one break out of the cycle of isolation?

From a young age, men are taught not to express emotions and to appear strong. This prevents them from building deeper relationships with friends and partners. The stereotypical view that a man should be self-sufficient and not in need of emotional support exacerbates the problem. As they grow older, many men prioritize their careers and relationships, neglecting their friendships. Unlike women, who usually maintain close friendships throughout their lives, men often find themselves without a strong social network in their 40s. Unlike women, who often maintain relationships through social activities, men often feel embarrassed to start or maintain friendships. Many believe that it is too late to create new friendships and end up isolating themselves.

We should keep in mind that a lack of emotional support makes it difficult to cope with daily challenges, resulting in increased levels of stress and depression. There is a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, as research has shown that loneliness can affect physical health as much as smoking or obesity. Finally, the need for social acceptance can lead to poor choices (toxic relationships, excessive alcohol consumption, addiction to social media and online games).

Some useful tips for dealing with loneliness are the following.
Rekindle old friendships: Send a message to a friend you haven’t seen in a while. People are often more open to reconnecting than you think.
Find new interests and groups: Sports activities, book clubs, volunteering, or even online communities can help.
Learn to express your feelings: It’s not a weakness to say you need company. The more honest you are, the more likely you are to create authentic relationships.
Invest in your emotional intelligence: Learn to listen, show interest, and understand the people around you.

Loneliness is not the norm in a man’s life. With small changes, you can improve your emotional state and rebuild a circle of social relationships that will support you. Male loneliness is not a weakness, it is a condition that can be changed with the right approach and effort.
Carl Jung said that “Loneliness does not come from the lack of people around us, but from the inability to express what is important to us.”

Maria Mylona is a Health Psychologist and Integrative Psychotherapist www.mariamylona.gr