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How can I find connection when I feel alone at work? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: Feeling alone is a very common experience and it can happen even when you're surrounded by colleagues all day.
• 0:07
  SPEAKER_00: Loneliness at work often comes down to the quality of contact people have, like shift patterns, working from home, being new, being the only person in a row or being too busy to chat can all leave someone short or meaningful conversations.
• 0:20
  SPEAKER_00: And many people do keep it to themselves, which can make it feel heavier.
• 0:24
  SPEAKER_00: Now connection tends to grow from small moments repeated over time.
• 0:28
  SPEAKER_00: When you feel alone, your mind may predict that colleagues would not want to talk to you.
• 0:32
  SPEAKER_00: So a helpful skill is to start testing that prediction gently.
• 0:36
  SPEAKER_00: So say one extra sentence to a colleague like asking how their weekend was or commenting on the task that you're both working on, and afterwards notice what actually happened.
• 0:45
  SPEAKER_00: And practical ways to support yourself might be to try using your brace in a shared space, even if it is just once or twice a week.
• 0:52
  SPEAKER_00: Look for something regular and low pressure, like a weekly coffee with a colleague.
• 0:56
  SPEAKER_00: And when invitations come up, such as team lunches or drinks, consider saying yes because these are often where connections begin.
• 1:03
  SPEAKER_00: And if you work remotely, you could ask a colleague for a short catch-up call as well.
• 1:08
  SPEAKER_00: And if your shift pattern or role keeps you isolated, speak with your manager about options like overlapping shifts or a body system.
• 1:15
  SPEAKER_00: You can also stay in touch with friends or family during the day with a quick message and build friendships and interest outside of work so work doesn't have to meet every need for connection.
• 1:25
  SPEAKER_00: Now if feeling alone has lasted for weeks or months and you notice low mood, constant worry or less enjoyment in things outside work, it might be a good time to speak with your GP or a therapist, or you can access your employee assistance programme if your workplace has one for confidential and well being support.
• 1:42
  SPEAKER_00: And a trusted friend or family member can also be a good place to start as well.
• 1:47
  SPEAKER_00: Now you can refer back to that's resources on finding connection when you feel alone at work for further support, and if you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.