California Cognitive Behavioral Institute is looking forward to 2015 with anticipation. Dr. Mathis has been running the business since 1996 and has seen many people with many issue’s over the years who have experienced abuse, other trauma’s, human trafficking, relationship problems, low esteem as well as joys, happiness, success’s and triumphs of healing.

But one of the age old problems that appears to be as prevalent today as in the past is loneliness. Even though we have more ways to communicate and connect with others, those instruments like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, don’t give the “personal” experience of touch, facial emotions, personal connections and emotions, that being face to face with someone does. Those tools, as good as they are, are cold, remote, emotionless and don’t fill up the love tank, like human connection can and does.

Why is “One Is the Loneliest Number” even a song? Why does being a “one” instead of a “two” or more such a bad thing? Loneliness is part of being human. Some experts believe the number of lonely people is increasing and some counselors report an increase in client’s struggling with this issue. A 2010 AARP survey indicates that it is certainly a common issue in adults older than 45. Another article written by John Cacioppo who specializes in the study of loneliness, published research indicating that loneliness is common in children and adolescents as well. Up to 80 percent of individuals younger than 18 reported feeling lonely at lest sometimes. The same study showed that for those over 65 years of age report that loneliness increases in the United States with advanced age.

Possibly differences in how we communicate today, our overstretched work and personal schedules, our frantic pace, our neglect of seniors in our community and family, have something to do with this.

Loneliness is not necessarily a state of being alone but rather as a lack of intimacy. Intimacy is a very important integral role in good mental health. Loneliness is not only emotionally painful, but research (Fromin-Reichmann, 1959) shows it can lead to sickness and possibly even death.

So what is the antidote for loneliness is connection – both with self and with others. There are four primary intervention strategies for loneliness that can be considered: improving social skills, enhancing social support, increasing opportunities for social contact and addressing maladaptive social cognition.

Encourage connection in your life and the life of others. Create activities like traveling, taking a pottery class or art class to connect with others, going to a language school to learn a language in order to interact with people from that country, volunteer your time and service, explore groups and activities the would be enjoyable to you.

Rather on dwelling on the loneliness, dwell on reaching out and connecting. If you want more help with loneliness and need counseling, contact California Cognitive Behavioral Institute at www.theccbi.com

This year can be a year of connection and fulfillment if you make the choice and take the action. Awareness + Action = Change!