5 Ways to Beat Loneliness
By Vanessa Cervantes
Despite the millions of people vying for space on this island, loneliness is rife. The good news is that there is something for everyone to do in Kingston and many ways to avoid being alone.
1
Find a community centre, church or similar near you that offers coffee mornings so you can drop in for a hot drink, some food and a chat with other people from the area.
2
If you are retired, why not sign up for the University of the Third Age which offers courses in everything from literature to art as well as meetings, walks, dances, games and events. It’s a fantastic way to make new friends and even pick up some new skills. Click here for more info.
3
Anyone over 18 can sign up to one of the many adult educational courses available all over Kingston as well as online. These types of courses are a great way to meet likeminded people and fill these dark months with new passions such as learning a language, honing your artistic skills or delving into subjects that fire your imagination. The possibilities are endless.
MORE THINGS TO DO:
4
Get a pet! Dogs are not only wonderful companions but they are a great excuse to get out and meet people. There are a number of dog parks in Kingston and the surrounding areas where dog walkers gather and chat. And don’t worry about making introductions. Your dog will do that for you.
If you don’t have the time or the energy to look after an animal that needs regular exercise and company for most of the day, why not offer to take a friend or neighbour’s dog for walks? Or sign up for a service like Borrow My Doggy which offers subscribers the opportunity to walk dogs for other people through the website.
Otherwise, getting a cat is the perfect solution. They are just as loyal and loving as dogs, but come and go as they please, only bothering you for food and cuddles. With Battersea Dogs and Cats Home just down the road and The Ginger Cat House Rescue based in Worcester Park, you could change an animal in need’s life for the better as well as your own.
5
Volunteer in a charity shop, food bank, soup kitchen or clean-up campaign near you – check out Kingston food bank or ask directly at a food bank in your area. Pop into your local charity shop and offer to help or head to Kingston Environment Centre to get involved with one of their fantastic community projects. Alternatively see this list of local groups tackling climate change, distributing short-dated food from supermarkets to people in need and recycling, repairing and repurposing donated goods.
For a few hours a week you can look forward to being busy and meeting people, but also feel good about giving back to your community.
