Loneliness is often described as a feeling of disconnect for the world and feeling like you don’t have anyone that really understands you. Young people are said to feel the loneliest of all age groups with a staggering 40% of 16-24 year olds claiming they feel lonely often or very often to the 27% of over 75s (based on the BBC’s Loneliness Experiment). Not only that though, loneliness can often be made worse with rising levels of anxiety, sense of shame and lack of trust in those around us.

But what part does loneliness play when it comes to addiction?

Many people who develop addictions are because they have been seeking a connection. The basic human need for bonding – with someone or something – is part of our nature and something we all yearn for. We all need intimacy with ourselves and other people to thrive as well as meaningful experiences which build out sense of purpose and self-worth. 

Often, behaviour patterns or substances can feel like a shortcut to connection, for example, an alcohol addict may have started in their teens to give themselves a confidence boost in social situations. A prescription drug addict may have started out taking codeine to relieve debilitating pain and experienced contentment whilst doing so. A gambling addict may have started initially placing bets on the football with his friends as he enjoyed the shared experience. 

Addiction, when it sets in, typically sees addicts chasing early effects which seem comforting and enjoyable at the time but spiral quickly out of control. Even in recovery, people can still experience euphoric recall where memories of pleasure that are associated with drugs, alcohol or other addictive behaviours can supersede those over the harmful side effects. 

This is known as disconnection from reality – trying to replicate or recall highs from the past is in some way still trying to escape the present. It may be that the current feelings are still very painful or hard to understand so, in this sense, loneliness can be a negative and a dissatisfaction of life. People in this state of mind can be much more susceptible to the cravings and triggers of addiction.

Being isolated in addiction isn’t just about being physically alone – it was even found that 16-24 year olds are the least likely of any age group to live by themselves but often feel the loneliest. At this age, it is likely that they haven’t developed effective coping strategies for loneliness so turn to substances. However, it is found that fewer young people are drinking alcohol addictively but are highly affected by technological addictions such as gaming and smartphone addiction. Adolescents are also susceptible to eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia as well as self-harm and other body image disorders in light of social media.

Ultimately, it’s about feeling disconnected to your surroundings and other people. Addicts often describe the feeling of being ‘uncomfortable in their own skin’, particularly when not acting on their addiction. 

If you or a loved one are showing signs like this and you think they need rehab help contact us. info@openmindsrehab.com 01978 312 120