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If you feel like you can only hang out with people if it's at a party or out at a nice dinner, you may limit the total amount of time you could be spending with people you enjoy. However, if you go out of your way to plan small 'dates' throughout the week with a variety of friends, you'll fill up your free time with socializing, which will practically remove loneliness from your life altogether. Going out with friends doesn't need to take much time or money. Whether you meet someone new at the coffee shop or you call up an old friend, try some of these easy 'date' ideas: Go for coffee or to a cafe Take a walk through a local park Run errands together (specifically with a close friend/family member) Cook a new recipe together Grab lunch during your break at work It's easy to feel lonely and overwhelmed when the future seems bleak and devoid of any plans. If you have something to look forward to - whether it be a big event or a meeting with someone you miss - you'll probably feel less lonely and more excited for what's to come. Take time to make a list of possible activities you might want to partake in. Then, spend a few days planning out the event to the fullest extent, so that you are fully prepared and stress-free. If you're able, include other people in the planning process and the final event for extra lonely-punching effect. Consider plans like: Going on a weekend trip to a new place Hosting a big dinner party or bonfire Going to a music festival or other related event If spending time out with friends or away from your home isn't an option for you, you might consider getting a pet to help fight loneliness. Studies have shown that people who have pets are much less likely to experience depression and loneliness than those who do not. Cats and dogs are generally considered the best pets for fighting loneliness, as they are happy to interact with you and enjoy physical contact (for the most part). Pets provide company and a good distraction from any negative feelings that may be bogging you down. Keep in mind that getting a pet is a big responsibility, and does require a large amount of time and care. If a dog or cat won't work for your lifestyle, birds and rodents are common pets that may also help. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all that is needed to freshen up your life and make you feel a bit happier. Not only that, but getting out and about exposes to you new opportunities for friends and hobbies. Keep in mind that just because you go out, doesn't mean you have to go out with people. You can conquer your loneliness even if you go out alone, so long as you are doing something you enjoy. Try going to a new cafe for work or studying, or simply visit your favorite part of the city. Becoming dependent on your bed or couch is a fast track to loneliness. Do your best to get out and try new things, even when all you may want to do is binge watch Netflix.
Make small plans with friends, often. Make big plans so that you have events to look forward to. Consider getting a pet. Avoid staying at home all the time.