Tips for parents: These are ways you can help children who feel lonely

Loneliness is a common occurrence in children and has a major impact on their mental health and self-confidence.

That is, loneliness also affects children when it comes to adjusting to a new school, problems with friendships, and feelings of exclusion as they watch their peers having fun and socializing.

Psychotherapist Alici Eaton explained that children's loneliness is on the rise due to a lack of spontaneous socialization and the increasing amount of time they spend in front of screens.

"In current cases, it's not about physical isolation, but about children feeling like they don't belong or aren't valued," Eaton asserts.

To help them in the process of reducing feelings of loneliness, parents are advised to encourage children to talk about personal feelings, as well as listen to them without judging them.

"For many children, these feelings can be overwhelming, leading them to withdraw from social situations and avoid seeking support. Therefore, it is important to create an environment in which they feel safe to express their emotions," says the psychotherapist.

It is also important to understand the reasons why a child feels lonely and to understand their emotions.

“When a child feels like no one understands them, they are emotionally lonely. Even when they are surrounded by people, children can feel isolated if they don't have a strong connection with someone they trust,” Eaton said.

Loneliness in children can occur for many reasons, so it is important to investigate its cause. Whether they are having difficulty making friends, feeling excluded, or are going through changes, understanding the problem helps provide the right support. Opportunities to socialize with peers can help children feel less lonely.

"Joining a club, starting a new hobby, and simply spending quality time with family can often ease feelings of loneliness," the psychotherapist claims.

To help your child get through the process of loneliness, it is important to help them build self-confidence.

“Loneliness can foster self-doubt, but highlighting strengths and achievements helps restore self-confidence,” Eaton said.

Loneliness is treated through ongoing support with regular conversations, interest in the child's feelings, and reassurance that he or she is not alone.

"Feelings of loneliness can damage a child's self-esteem and increase the risk of anxiety and depression. Children need to feel important and loved. By recognizing loneliness early, you can help your child grow into a happy and confident person," says Eaton.