What is loneliness?

Loneliness can come from rejection, feeling different from one's peers, or lacking the tools to make genuine connections. It's painful and isolating, but people can overcome loneliness by talking about their emotions and addressing whatever makes them feel alone.

What can loneliness look like for my child?

Loneliness can look different for every child. Some children may feel anger or irritability. Others may just want to pull away.

How can I start a conversation with my child about loneliness?

Children can feel lonely when they're disconnected from loved ones or wish they were more connected to their peers.

Here are a few ways to start:

• Openly acknowledge that sometimes people can feel lonely.
• Ask your child if they wish they had more closeness or company in their life.
• Ask your child if there's anything you can do to help them build new connections or strengthen old ones.

How much social connection does my child actually need?

Everyone needs different levels of social support. Some children require more social contact to feel satisfied, while others need very little. There's no one “right” amount of company — it comes down to individual needs.

Children (and adults) can have a lot of company and still feel lonely. They can also have very little company and feel completely satisfied. Feeling connected tends to come down to:

• Having someone to share their worries with.
• Having someone to tell secrets to.
• Having a person or group who makes them feel connected and accepted for who they are.

How can I continue the conversation with my child about loneliness?

Being lonely isn't just a feeling a child can get over in a day. Check in with your child regularly to make sure their loneliness doesn't lead to depression. Support your child in developing healthy friendships.