Community Matters: Loneliness is something to sing about

I love music. 

Believe me, I have little talent playing an instrument but listening to music is so important. 

Finding hidden gems, feel good anthems, music that makes you laugh, smile or cry.  As a Community Builder I listen to music in the car between visits and meetings.  I meet people who truly are lonely and isolated.  But with the radio on you listen to the choices of the DJ.  It might be REM’s Shiny Happy People, songs full of joy or something completely different.

There are many songs about loneliness - Green Day’s Boulevard of Broken Dreams, The Beatles Elenor Rigby, Roy Orbison’s Only the Lonely to name a few.

Songs written and performed by people of all ages.  The songs span decades and generations and many genres.  The Dua Lipa and Martin Garrix song Scared to be Lonely is one of many songs that highlight the fear of loneliness. “Cause we’re scared to be lonely. Do we need somebody. Just to feel like we’re alright.”

Many songs are about love and loss.  Some may be transient, a moment in time that is soon replaced by positivity.  

Sadly, the soundtrack to many people’s lives is that of ongoing loneliness.  Days, weeks, months and years without ongoing contact with family, friends or even a ‘good morning.  How are you?’ from a neighbour.

The sad fact is that loneliness is a silent killer.  Indeed, loneliness can increase the risk of early mortality by 26%, it causes mental health challenges, poor sleep quality, even higher blood pressure.  Loneliness impacts people of all ages particularly older people. 

So, maybe loneliness is something to sing about, probably shout about.  But if people talk to their neighbours and connect with people the world would be a better place.  Torbay Communities are always looking for volunteers or good neighbours who can visit or phone people who are lonely and isolated.  The difference you can make in incalculable. 

Check out Torbay Communities website for more information about us or email me at simonlangridge@torbaycdt.org.uk  With my lack of musical talent, I won’t be singing to people or grab a guitar, penny whistle or drums but just say ‘Hello, how are you?’  Genius lyrics!  A conversation started.