We can all feel lonely.
Loneliness can affect anyone, no matter where you live. In West Lothian, whether you’re in a small town or a more rural area, it’s easy to feel a bit out of touch sometimes. But you’re not alone, and things can get better.
This guide is here to help you take small steps towards feeling more connected. From local groups and services to simple ideas that can lift your mood, there’s support nearby to help you feel more like yourself again.
Let us know what resource works well for you. If you have any other suggestions for our self-help pages, please email westspace@health-in-mind.org.uk.
Factsheets
These factsheets will help you understand the cause and symptoms of loneliness.
Loneliness factsheet from Mind
The facts on loneliness from Campaign to End Loneliness
Tips and information
Here you will find tips and information to help you, or someone close to you, who is feeling lonely.
Isolation and loneliness, Mind to Mind from NHS Information
A quick guide to loneliness from the Marmalade Trust
3 ways to support older people experiencing loneliness, depression and anxiety from Age UK
‘8 Ways to Overcome Loneliness’ by Tchiki Davis from Psychology Today
‘How Not to Feel Lonely: 50 Science-Backed Tips Everyone Should Read’ by Gina Ryder at The Healthy
‘5 ways to deal with loneliness’ by Wendy Wisner from The Talkspace Voice
10 ways to take action on loneliness from Nuffield Health
Guide to feeling lonely from NHS UK
Articles and publications from the Mental Health foundation about loneliness
Is Chronic Loneliness Real?’ by Crystal Raypol at Healthline
Organisations and services
Here is a list of UK wide organisations related to loneliness:
If you are looking for local support, please go to our service directory to find out what services and projects are available to you.