Do you ever feel like you are all alone in a world full of people? That feeling of loneliness and isolation can cause severe bouts of depression. And it is not limited to any class of people. Some famous celebrities and influential people confess to feeling lonely and doubting whether the people in their lives care about them. These thoughts, when left to grow, can lead to serious self-doubt, self-loathing and a diminished sense of self. So, how can you deal with the feeling?

How to Cope When Feeling No One Cares About Me

1.   Fight Feelings of Worthlessness

When you begin to think that nobody cares about you, feelings of worthlessness set in. If entertained, these thoughts will grow until you start believing that you are not worth being cared about.

Take a stance against these destructive thoughts by constantly reminding yourself that you are worthy, regardless of other people’s opinion. Be mindful of how you relate to people, especially if they offer you help. Be careful not to argue to prove how worthless you are. This will only push people further away, making them less likely to help. Instead, show gratitude by saying “thank you”.

2.   Understand "Uncaring" Responses

When you are feeling depressed, you tend to think that people don’t care about you, or that they are mean and unkind. The truth, however, is that they are more focused on issues in their lives.

For instance, have ever walked into a room full of people and you felt like all eyes are on you? Most likely, they only glanced at you briefly and continued with their lines of thought. When you hear phrases like “it will get better” or “ignore it”, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the person is dismissive or uncaring. Sometimes people think that they are genuinely helping when they say such things.

3.   Reach Out to Old Friends and Acquaintances

Talk to an old friend or colleague that you know you can trust. Speaking in person or over a telephone is much helpful than texting or online chat.

4.   Find New Hobbies and Friend Groups

Take up new activities or hobbies that will increase your sense of self-worth and counter the feeling that no one cares about me. Helping others through volunteering is an excellent way to boost your confidence and self-worth. You will also get to meet new people and expand your network.

5.    Keep a Collection of Happy Memories

Sometimes when you are feeling lonely or isolated, positive things such as hugs and supportive conversations may seem fleeting to you. So when you are feeling better, why don’t you jot down the moments that made you happy? For instance, when someone says something nice about you or does something nice for you, you can write it down in a journal. Next time when you are feeling lonely or depressed, you can whip out your journal and remind yourself of how beautiful life is.

6.    Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes

• Make a point to maintain a healthy diet. Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants such as broccoli, carrots, apricots and nuts.
• Try to stick to a schedule and also make sure you get enough sleep every day.
• Get into a regular exercise regime.
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and other drugs.

7.   Stay Busy

When you get bored or idle, you will most likely begin to magnify the little mistakes or wrongs in people’s lives and create a cloud of negativity. This may cause the feeling that no one cares about me and cause you to believe that you are worthless. To counter this, keep yourself busy by engaging in positive activities that will get your mind off such things. Do something that keeps you engaged and happy.

8.   Get a Pet, If You Can

Not only are they adorable, but having someone depending on you for everything can impart a sense of worth to you. Pets are loyal friends and owning one will take away those nagging feelings of loneliness.

9.   You Can Create a “New Normal” in Your Life

If you are feeling no one cares about you and are depressed because you lost something or someone, begin by creating a “new normal” in your life. Remember that life goes on. Find something new that is fulfilling and interesting and try to leave the past behind. Get used to your "new normal" and start looking forward to life with zest.

10.   Know That You’re Not Alone

The feeling of being alone and isolated affects millions of people. As much as many people suffer through it silently, many more are coming out and fighting it. There are local support groups, and family and friends who are willing to be there for you if you allow. Don't suffer in silence. 

11.   Understand and Treat Your Depression

Depression is a serious medical condition that requires urgent medical attention. Symptoms of depression include: persistent feelings of emptiness, irritability, lack of energy, restlessness, feeling no one cares about me, etc. 

Seeing a licensed psychologist can help you find coping mechanisms to fight depression. Be sure to commit yourself and be patient throughout the treatment period.