What does loneliness have to do with the power of the mind?
A lot.
Loneliness is at a global epidemic high in our culture (especially with all the social distancing that has occurred within the last several months) and is a major cause in suicides.
Following the loss of my wife when I was on the SEALs, I went to see our command psychologist. I will never forget that conversation.
“Phillip, what do you think is the most common characteristic of Navy SEALS nowadays?” he asked.
I was thinking mental toughness, grit, perseverance (or something hardcore). But his answer was nothing like that.
“Loneliness,” he said.
I was shocked. But as the weeks and months went by, it became glaringly obvious to me that his professional assessment was 100% correct.
In today’s culture of fast-paced, faceless and reactionary messaging, we are seeing an increase in “social media depression”, isolation and loneliness.
The good news is that we are all capable of pulling someone out of these emotional states.
I encourage everyone reading this post to continue pressing into your relationships and remaining emotionally close to your loved ones. If you are struggling now and feeling lost, reach out to a friend, family member, life coach or counselor for help.
Remember: It’s okay to not be okay. We need each other and are designed to live and thrive in community.
