Who can I call when I'm lonely?

Loneliness can be an overwhelming feeling, especially when you’re facing it alone and unsure of who to turn to for help. Whether it’s the isolation of being physically distanced from friends and family, or just a moment where you need someone to talk to, reaching out for connection is essential. Thankfully, there are a variety of services, hotlines, and resources available that offer support when you’re feeling lonely, whether it’s for a casual conversation or emotional support.

Here’s a guide to who you can call when loneliness strikes, offering options for real-time connection and support.

1. Friends and Family: Personal Connections

When you’re feeling lonely, the first people to consider reaching out to are the people you already know—friends and family. Even if it’s been a while since you’ve spoken or you’re hesitant to reach out, most loved ones will be understanding and happy to hear from you.

Why they’re good to call:

You already have an established relationship, which can offer emotional comfort.
They are likely to know your situation and may be able to offer personal support.
It strengthens social bonds and builds your support network.

Tips for calling:

Let them know you’re feeling lonely and just want to talk, without any pressure to solve your problems.
Reach out even if you feel unsure—they might not be aware of how much you need support.

2. Hotlines for Emotional Support: Immediate Help

When you’re feeling lonely and don’t know where to turn, helplines can provide immediate and confidential support. These services often have trained listeners who are available to chat with you, offering a safe space to express your feelings.

Examples of helplines include:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): Call 988 (free, 24/7) for emotional support, suicide prevention, and crisis intervention.
Samaritans (UK & Ireland): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) for anyone in distress or crisis, including feelings of loneliness.
Crisis Text Line (U.S.): Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 text-based support from trained crisis counselors.

Why they’re good to call:

Professional support from people trained to help those in emotional distress.
Immediate availability, especially when you're feeling isolated and need someone to talk to.
Complete anonymity if you prefer to remain private.

3. Therapists and Counselors: Professional Support for Loneliness

If loneliness is a recurring issue or you feel it’s part of a deeper emotional or mental health challenge, reaching out to a therapist or counselor can be very helpful. These professionals can help you address the root causes of your loneliness, develop coping strategies, and offer long-term support.

Why they’re good to call:

They provide expert guidance on handling feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Therapy can help you address any underlying mental health concerns, such as depression or anxiety.
Sessions are confidential, giving you a safe and nonjudgmental space.

How to find one:

Use platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace, which provide online therapy that’s convenient and often more affordable.
If you have insurance, check if they cover therapy services or ask your doctor for a referral.

4. Community or Religious Groups: Finding Supportive Connections

Many communities and religious organizations offer support through group activities, talk lines, or social gatherings. These groups can be a great way to connect with others and relieve feelings of loneliness, while offering a sense of belonging.

Examples include:

Local churches, temples, or synagogues often have pastoral care teams available for emotional support.
Community centers or clubs (e.g., local book clubs, senior centers, support groups).
Online groups on social media platforms, such as Facebook, where people gather to talk about shared interests or struggles.

Why they’re good to call:

You can get emotional support and feel part of a group.
They often have regular gatherings, which can help you break out of isolation.
It can help you build new connections with people who share your values or interests.

5. Peer Support Networks: Connecting with Those Who Understand

Sometimes, talking to someone who has been through similar experiences can make all the difference. Peer support networks are designed for people who are experiencing similar struggles and want to provide mutual emotional support.

Examples include:

7 Cups: Offers free, online emotional support from trained listeners and peer volunteers.
Support groups on websites like Reddit or Meetup, where you can join communities based on shared interests or feelings of loneliness.
Mental health apps like Wysa or Sanvello also provide guided therapy sessions or connection with others experiencing similar challenges.

Why they’re good to call:

You’ll be talking to someone who understands your situation because they’ve experienced it too.
Peer support can help reduce feelings of isolation and increase empathy.
Many services are free and offer both one-on-one and group interactions.

6. Volunteer Services: Talking While Helping Others

Volunteering can be an excellent way to combat loneliness by engaging in meaningful conversations while also helping others. Some volunteer services provide opportunities to talk to others, especially those who are isolated, elderly, or in need of companionship.

Examples include:

The Silver Line (UK): Offers a free confidential helpline for older people who feel lonely or isolated, available 24/7.
Volunteer Match: A platform where you can find volunteer opportunities, many of which include telephone support services.
The Friendship Line (U.S.): A 24-hour toll-free helpline for seniors and others who are lonely or in need of support.

Why they’re good to call:

You’ll have the opportunity to help others while receiving emotional support.
It provides a sense of purpose and helps break the cycle of loneliness.
Often provides ongoing connection, as you can continue helping or talking with the same person over time.

7. Online Communities and Chat Services: Instant Connection with Strangers

For those looking to talk to someone quickly and without commitment, online chat services or forums can be great ways to connect with others who may be going through similar experiences.

Examples include:

Omegle: A random chat platform where you can meet strangers for anonymous conversation (text or video).
Reddit's r/lonely: A subreddit where people talk about their feelings of loneliness and provide support to one another.
Discord: Many communities (servers) offer places for people to connect, share their feelings, and chat.

Why they’re good to call:

Instant connection with strangers who might be feeling the same way.
Provides a platform to share your thoughts and vent without judgment.
Some services have moderated chat rooms, ensuring that people are kind and supportive.

8. Crisis Text Line: Text-Based Emotional Support

If you’re not in the mood for a voice conversation, text-based helplines like Crisis Text Line can offer quick and anonymous support via text messages.

How it works:

Simply text HOME to 741741 (U.S.) to connect with a trained volunteer who will offer support through text.
Available 24/7, providing immediate assistance for a range of emotional challenges, including loneliness.

Why they’re good to call:

It’s convenient if you’re feeling too shy to make a phone call.
Provides a non-intrusive way to express feelings.
Immediate availability without needing to wait for an appointment.

Conclusion

Loneliness doesn’t have to be faced alone. Whether you choose to reach out to friends and family, connect with professional counselors, or engage with online support communities, there are many people and resources available to provide help when you're feeling lonely. Talking to someone—whether it’s a loved one, a therapist, or a stranger who’s willing to listen—can significantly help in managing feelings of isolation and begin to heal the emotional wounds that loneliness can create.