Loneliness has become an epidemic and the consequences can be deadly. After the pandemic many of us have struggled with getting back on track with social interactions, having spent so much time in isolation.
Other than the obvious sadness which can occur with loneliness, it can have a large impact on other areas of mental health.
People who are socially isolated and lonely may be less likely to eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise and more likely to smoke and consume alcohol.
Mental well-being officer for Leeds Beckett, Gareth Cavill, agreed that sometimes people who are lonely can turn to alcohol and drugs for comfort.
He also said: “It’s about choice, if someone chooses to be alone it is different to when they have no choice.”
Leeds Girl is a Facebook page which started in 2020, to help any women in Leeds who are lonely and struggling to make friends.
After being added to the group you can make a post giving some information about yourself and your interests and like-minded people can reach out.
There are weekly events scheduled that are open to all members. Some previous events that have taken place are dance classes, book clubs, pole dancing classes, yoga and pottery painting.
Events do vary in price but are affordable, pottery painting with the Leeds Girl group costs £18, which includes a piece of pottery and all creative materials required.
Some members have said the page and the events have helped them make friends and get out of the house as some work remote.
Kat Bennet, a member of the Leeds Girl group, said: “It’s so nice to just get out, go for after work drinks or just have a gab.
“When you get to your mid twenties your friends are busy with their lives and it’s harder to make plans.”
The Facebook group now has over 4.5k members and hopes to continue their events and tackling the issue of loneliness in Leeds.
