This course explores the topic of loneliness. It tells you what loneliness is and how it can make you feel. You will find out what makes you more likely to feel lonely, why loneliness has increased and how people can feel lonely whilst among a crowd of people. It also discusses tips to combat feeling lonely, how to support someone who is feeling lonely, the difference between loneliness and solitude, and the benefits that solitude can have.
Recovery College Online and Dr Tim Dixon, Deputy Head of Chaplaincy, contributed to the development of this course. It has been updated in April 2026.
This course will take approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete, but this timing will depend on how fast you read and how long you spend on the activities and reflective questions. You do not need to complete the whole course in one go. If you leave and come back to the course, it will remember where you got up to.
This course is designed for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide therapy, medical advice or professional support. If you need crisis support, please contact local mental health services, your GP or telephone 111 or the emergency services on 999.