Deployments and PCS are an important part of military life. These transitions can be filled with new opportunities and experiences. However, the challenges of moving and separating from family and friends may contribute to loneliness and social isolation. In fact, loneliness can happen to anyone, at any time, and may negatively impact your health and well-being. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to connect with others and feel more engaged.
What Is Loneliness?
Loneliness is the feeling of being alone or separated from others. It happens when you feel your need for social connection is not being met.
Social isolation, on the other hand, is physical separation from others, which can occur when living alone or in a remote area. It is possible to experience loneliness while surrounded by others, or to be alone and not feel lonely.
Health Risks of Loneliness
Research has shown that loneliness and social isolation can negatively impact your health. They may put you at a higher risk for physical and psychological health concerns, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Impaired cognitive function
- Weakened immune system
Since there is no single root cause of loneliness, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, there are steps you can take to tackle feelings of loneliness and help you connect more with others in your community.
8 Tips to Fight Loneliness
1. Shift Focus to Others
Find a way to serve others, which can boost your mood and provide a sense of purpose. Your installation's Military and Family Support Center can help you find local volunteer opportunities on and off base.
2. Pursue a Hobby or Interest
Get out of the house, get involved in a new hobby, or take an online class to learn a new skill. Check out your Morale, Welfare, and Recreation program to find fun activities in your area and meet new people.
3. Spend Time Outdoors
Go on a walk to a nearby park or enjoy time out on a patio or deck. If you are unable to make it outside, bring the outdoors in by opening up your windows to let in the fresh air and natural sounds. Engaging with nature may boost your mood and help your psychological well-being.
4. Bond with Your Unit
Work on building stronger cohesion in your unit. Start by incorporating more effective speaking and listening skills into your interactions, like asking open-ended questions and making eye contact during conversation. Planning or attending unit activities may also help you bond with your unit.
5. Nurture Your Connections
Focus on improving and strengthening your current relationships. Stay in touch with friends and family regularly, especially if you are in an isolated area. Connect through social media, video chat, or by phone.
6. Branch Out Socially
Avoid relying on only your unit for socializing and friendships. Try building relationships with a variety of groups, including neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family.
7. Embrace Alone Time
Spend some time enjoying your own company. Start by spending time alone doing an activity you love. Try out an activity that promotes self-reflection like hiking, biking, journal writing, meditation, or yoga.
8. Talk to a Professional
Reach out to a health care professional if you need additional support or show signs of depression. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact the Psychological Health Resource Center 24/7 to confidentially speak with trained health resource consultants. Call 866-966-1020 or use the Live Chat. Remember, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support via phone or chat for people in distress, resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
For the Veterans/Military Crisis Line, dial 988 and press 1 or text 838255. You can also chat online. For OCONUS calling options and online chat accessible from anywhere in the world, visit https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/military-crisis-line/.
Additional Resources:
Sources:
- Deshpande, S. (2020, April 29). Alone, together: Coping with isolation and covid-19. https://www.army.mil/article/234108/alone_together_coping_with_isolation_and_covid_19
- National Institute on Aging. (2019, April 23). Social Isolation, Loneliness in Older People Pose Health Risks. https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks
- Novotney, A. (2020, March 24). The risks of social isolation. Monitor on Psychology, 50(5). https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/05/ce-corner-isolation
- Rossiter, A. G., & Ling, C. G. (2022). Building resilience in US military families: why it matters. BMJ military health, 168(1), 91–94. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjmilitary-2020-001735
Updated April 2025