Loneliness can affect anyone at any age. Most often the word is associated with being alone, but alone and lonely are not the same. Many people feel quite happy being alone, yet others feel lonely even when surrounded by others. Loneliness is a bleak feeling of isolation. This can be an indication that your needs are not being met, and can lead to sadness and depression.

You are not alone. Whether your loneliness stems from the loss of a loved one, a move, a new job or career change, empty nest, chronic illness, or any major life change, you can share your feelings with a Samaritan counselor and develop solutions. You don’t have to be lonely.