Dear Sonia, 

I miss my family so much especially as they can not travel now. I live in Spain with my husband but I feel so alone. Is there anything I can do? Katie

Firstly thank you for your question. Obviously there are a lot of questions that I should ask you to identify exactly where the loneliness has come from. However, with the information you have given me I can tell you that you should try to live in the present as much as possible. Living each moment as if there wasn´t a past or a future. I know it can seem difficult, but try to enjoy every sunny day and keep your mind busy with things you like. Even with the restrictions, there are a lot of things that you can still do. Just taking a walk along the beach or reading a book can create special moments, you just need to make them great and enjoy them. 

Secondly, there are two ways to think about it. 

One: “I wish that things were different”

or two:

“Even though I would like things to be different, I accept that they are how they are; it won´t last forever; I can still do many things and enjoy making special moments too. When I feel sad and lonely, I will listen to and understand myself and from this place of acceptance I will decide how to live my life even with the difficult circumstances.  

My last piece of advice is to remind you that video calls and online chats allow you to see your friends and family anytime you need to. It’s not the same, but is a great way to spend time together. 

Covid has meant that everyone has had to adapt to a new way of life, just remember it doesn´t have to be difficult.

Ask Sonia