Loneliness and community mental health

Purpose In this paper I will discuss loneliness in the community. Design/methodology/approach Finding a non-medical way to support people who feel lonely is really important. Many will never have considered joining groups of identity like the offer briefly discussed. Findings In future community mental health features, the author will consider topics such as community mental health advocacy, debt, benefits and finance, housing and self-help. Originality/value In this column, the author briefly considers the concepts of loneliness, social isolation and solitude; review some research; and offer ideas about how help may be given in community settings.